Back in the “old days”—when printed graphics were less complex, when quality and consistency standards were less stringent, and Delta E reminded people more of an airline and a concourse rather than a color difference—specifying an anilox roll was relatively simple.
Whether it be from empirical testing or experience through the school of hard knocks, an appropriate linescreen and volume could be chosen for a particular application with a reasonable expectation of success. At the very least, they would be “close enough” to where a pressman could adjust inks and settings to achieve a “pass” on quality.