Prepress Resource Guide: Workflow Software

Agfa

ApogeeX 3.0 workflow software is based on PDF, JDF (Job Definition Format) and Digital Film. Featuring a single, easy-to-use user interface, it offers a range of capabilities. Provides extensive process automation and connectivity features.

Apogee PrintDrive enables integration with non-Agfa workflow solutions and output systems. New step-and-repeat function requires a page to be RIPed and trapped only once. Apogee Raster Blaster helps integrate most non-Agfa output devices into workflow. Apogee Power Converter converts legacy formats to PDF.

:Delano 2.6 project management system offers extended JDF connectivity. It offers better support for spot colors, an improved user interface and faster system responsiveness.

Arcadia, Agfa’s digital publishing and asset management system, enhances productivity by offering the ability to search for, access, reuse and distribute content more efficiently and effectively.

Barr Systems

Barr Systems’ output management solutions provide connectivity, transformation, print management, and Web-based report distribution/analytics capabilities to organizations ranging from Fortune 1,000 corporations to small businesses. Clients’ industries include financial, insurance, education, health-care, government, manufacturers, distributors, and more.

Dalim Software

DALiM TWiST automated workflow software uses modular tools (preflighting, trapping, proofing, etc.) configured into processing paths.

EFI

The newest Fiery System Software provides a flexible workflow that is WYSIWYG and consistent, whether the job is VDP or non-VDP. EFI MicroPress software leverages state-of-the-art platform and operating system technology to deliver digital prepress and workflow management solutions for black-and-white and color printers.

EFI Balance accepts jobs from any user on the system, provides productive editing tools, and manages jobs over a range of digital devices. Leveraging EFI Command WorkStation interface, PDF technologies, and EFI Fiery technology, Balance provides a look and feel that maximizes user efficiency and productivity across EFI and non-EFI controlled devices.

Digital StoreFront delivers a personalized, interactive intranet or Internet presence 24 hours a day, and offers a streamlined workflow from the document creator, through the print production environment, to finishing and delivery.

Enfocus

PitStop Automate is built on the Enfocus PitStop Library platform and extends Enfocus’ quality-control formula to introduce extensive automation functionality in the production process. PitStop Automate permits file sorting and conditional workflows based on file type, size and other file or document properties. It enables splitting multiple-page PDFs into many single-page PDFs, and electronic file delivery can be achieved through FTP and e-mail.

Enfocus PitStop Professional, an Adobe Acrobat plug-in, is the industry standard application for PDF preflighting, auto-correction and editing. Enfocus PDF Profiles allow users to check critical PDF attributes and automatically correct common errors. Certified PDF technology enables immediate visual feedback and tracks edits made to PDFs. A built-in auto-notification system interfaces directly with CertifiedPDF.net to ensure use of proper specifications. Features include comprehensive interactive inspection and a range of editing tools.

Instant PDF reliably creates Certified PDFs by providing document creators and receivers the functionality to achieve consistent PDF output and quality control. Instant PDF uses Enfocus PDF Queues to guide the entire PDF creation process. Enfocus PDF Queues published on CertifiedPDF.net by printers, publishers, industry associations, and Enfocus can be directly imported from within Instant PDF.

Enfocus PDF Workflow Suite consists of Enfocus Instant PDF, an Enfocus CertifiedPDF.net license, Enfocus PitStop Server and Enfocus PitStop Professional. The PDF Workflow Suite works to achieve inter-company PDF quality management that eliminates ambiguity from PDF workflows by offering the tools needed for setup and communication about PDF quality specifications. Users check and correct incoming PDF files to deploy a Certified PDF workflow, increasing productivity and the quality of print production.

PitStop Server is a stand-alone application for high volume PDF, PDF/X-1a, and PDF/X-3 workflows by streamlining multi-document preflight, auto-correction and large file processing. PDFs are simply dropped into a hot folder; PitStop Server automatically processes the file using Enfocus PDF Profiles and Action Lists. Action Lists allow users to easily automate repetitive editing tasks from page renumbering or color or overprint modifications, to object replacement and page resizing more quickly than before.

CertifiedPDF.net lets printers communicate PDF output requirements to designers and content creators for error-free print production. CertfiedPDF.net enables printers to publish their PDF specifications, PDF Queues and related documentation for easy distribution to document creators. These specifications and PDF Queues are then used within the Enfocus products to create PDF files that comply with requirements.

Exstream

Dialogue is an enterprise infrastructure for building and deploying all of a company’s personalized batch, real-time and interactive, Web-based document applications. Dialogue integrates within an existing enterprise environment to produce any communication—from customer correspondence to complex statements—for delivery through the preferred print and electronic channels.

Dialogue Anywhere for Marketing is a browser-based design capability that allows users to incorporate rules-based messages and other variable content into marketing communications from any location, using an Internet browser.

Heidelberg

Prinect MetaDimension RIP and workflow software features an open system architecture and modular design. Built on Adobe PostScript 3 and PDF, it uses Adobe Portable Job Ticket Format (PJTF) to direct processing based on “output plans.” Modularity provides support for the use of Acrobat plug-ins and integration of capabilities such as color management, proofing, trapping, CIP4 and OPI. Via the use of JDF (Job Definition Format) the Prinect MetaDimension can become the rendering component of the Prinect Printready System. Prinect MetaDimension offers top class screening technologies. Prinect MetaDimension Integrates with an existing Delta Technology workflow via the DeltaFlow option for importing Delta lists. Can be operated from any PC or Mac on the network. Provides import/ export of screened TIFF data to control third-party devices and integrates with third-party workflows.

Prinect Printready system uses a client/server architecture. The automated process stages are defined on the workstation using the Printready Cockpit software and processes the individual jobs via Sequence templates on the server. The new solution is fully modular. The Prinect Printready System can be configured to suit small companies or large scale operations requiring multi server/ multi applications with job load balancing across multiple engines and physical servers. Job visibility and job status is assured throughout the production process via full support of JDF and JMF (messaging). The Prinect Printready system is fully grounded in JDF (job ticket) and PDF (content data) processing. Production integration can be linked to both MIS job data entry and remote client access via numerous Web features for file uploading, Preflighting, downloading and softproofing. The new version 3.0 with many new features, functions and benefits will be released this June.

Prinect Digital Print Manager is a new JDF based module for that can be added to the Prinect Printready version 3.0 that will facilitate the connectivity and workflow support of Digital Printing Machines. This will satisfy the need to leverage the same workflow processes into combined solutions for offset and digital printing.

Prinect Signa Station creates imposed print sheets including all marks for output on CtP, CtF and digital presses. Marks are set automatically and are dynamically adapted to the paper size and the printed area. There is no longer any need to position individual marks.

Kodak

Kodak PRINERGY workflow systems are complete, modular and scalable PDF-based solutions. They deliver intelligent automation, optimized production management and flexible integration options for speed, quality and control in production. Key system components include PRINERGY Connect and Direct.

Kodak PRINERGY Evo is an affordable PDF-based, end-to-end workflow that increases efficiency and reduces the cost of production. Intuitive interface makes it easy to use. Kodak INSITE software offers a portal into Prinergy and Brisque workflows. Runs on a standard Web browser for integrated Internet job submission, remote proofing and collaborative content approval.

Kodak PREPARE software automates PDF workflows. Can be used to create prepress-ready files within the Macintosh desktop environment.

Kodak PREPS imposition software supports PostScript, PDF, EPS, DCS and TIFF source files. It works with all Kodak and many major third party workflow systems.

Kodak UPFRONT production planning software increases productivity and decreases costly production planning errors. UPFRONT software enables you to automatically produce accurate job layouts, create imposition ready digital templates for prepress, and send JDF/CIP3 information to bindery equipment.

Markzware

FlightCheck Professional 5.8 now has expanded PDF checking based upon the Ghent PDF Workgroup’s (GWG) PDF/X PLUS specification. The GWG has established best practice specifications for the production and preflighting of PDF files for a variety of specialist applications. Now, FlightCheck comes with built-in ground controls that validate PDFs to the GWG specifications for more secure and productive digital workflows. A number of other customer suggestions have been implemented in this upgrade, including: improved handling for gradients and blends; embedded ICC profile detection for PhotoShop EPS; improved text overprint reporting for PDF; improved artificial text styling detection for PDF; detection of special print options for InDesign files.

Mitsubishi Imaging

SDP Smart Tools is a family of workflow modules that add value to Mitsubishi Imaging’s SDP RIP by automating virtually all aspects of file preparation. The tools cover functions such as PDF creation, preflighting, trapping, imposition, and CIP3 connectivity. By automating these tasks, SDP Smart Tools can save time and money in the print preparation process. With SDP Smart Tools, you start with the components you need today, then add capabilities as your needs grow.

Océ North America

Océ PRISMA is a family of modular document workflow software that makes work flow faster and more efficiently. It integrates with the systems and work processes you already have across a range of printing environments.

Presstek

The Harlequin-based Momentum RIP is designed to drive Presstek and A.B.Dick output devices. Momentum is compatible with PostScript Level 3 and PDF specifications.

Based on Adobe CPSI 3016, the Facet RIP generates the highest quality documents through its RIP Once Output Many (ROOM) architecture, which generates the same results on proof as on plates.

Printable

Printable Technologies’ FusionPro variable data printing applications support complex variable content, export of text and common file attributes, simplified field mapping, and print output data streams such as PPML, VIPP, JLYT, VDX and others. FusionPro Server offers high-speed data merge, multiple job management, automatic load balancing, and auto-failover. Printable’s Web to print system (PrintOne Customer Center, Printable Dashboard, and Printable Manager) delivers online ordering and e-commerce, versioned and variable documents, job submission and file transfer.

RIPit

OpenRIP Symphony is a comprehensive, turnkey Adobe PostScript 3 workflow solution built on RIPit’s award-winning core OpenRIP technology. In addition to controlling 100+ imagesetters, platesetters, printers, and plotters natively, OpenRIP can also control a range of PostScript and TIFF-in devices from a single interface. This centralized control also insures file consistency across all devices. OpenRIP Symphony is available standalone or as part of RIPit’s turnkey SpeedSetter VM CtP system series.

Screen (U.S.A.)

Trueflownet is a JDF-based solution that provides end-to-end integrated production management designed to enable automated, streamlined print ordering and production. The Trueflownet family of workflow solutions encompasses software applications, computer-to-plate (CTP) devices and digital printing presses. Production processes from job submission to job approval are automated, under the printer’s control. Scalable workflow modules offer capabilities to address a variety of printing production needs including; customer service, postpress, fulfillment and operation.

The Trueflow 3 PDF- and JDF-based workflow management system drives CTP production and digital printing presses via an automated and streamlined process. Trueflow 3 provides file checking, OPI, integrated automated trapping, intelligent RGB conversion, plate imposition specifically for CTP workflows and other common prepress functions. Trueflow 3’s JDF enablement strengthens cooperation between management information systems (MIS) and print production. Screen has recently released the Trueflow 3.12 software upgrade. Trueflow Rite 3.12, an entry-level workflow, is also available.

Trueflow 3 ArchiveManager is an archiving solution for flexible storage, search and retrieval of completed Trueflow 3 jobs. Jobs can be stored off-line-on a DVD jukebox, tape changer or disk array. Jobs can be restored, as needed, without interrupting any work in progress. Archiving can be manually implemented or the scheduling function can be set for off-peak.

The Ritecontrol production management solution enables administration and load-balancing in a multiple Trueflow 3 environment. Ritecontrol supports unified control of all the processes involved in getting a printed product to market, including design, prepress, press, finishing and delivery.

Ritepolisher Pro CMYK-conversion software allows printers to control the final print quality of images by enhancing the individual setup protocols. It applies CMYK conversion instructions in the form of a recipe file to the PDF/X-3 file received.

The Riteportal SE Internet portal provides reliable PDF creation, preflight check and online job submission capabilities with streamlined ordering and approval processes. Clients can create PDF files from any application that can print, accessing the web site 24/7 to check on job status. Clients can also order reprints of documents online. With the dynamic document creation module clients can create printable jobs online via templates made available to them. Clients can create, preview and submit jobs through one simple and secure access site.

Ritetransfer is an intelligent job submission portal enabling customers to submit application jobs directly from their desktop. Ritetransfer solves such typical submission problems as email, FTP or CD.

Riteinspect offers a digital alternative to visual inspection. Riteinspect ensures proper inspection and comparison of initially submitted data and final output data, comparing original and revised jobs electronically to eliminate the need for content proofing at platemaking.

Xerox

FreeFlow Digital Workflow Collection optimizes print production workflows. Components include: FreeFlow Variable Information Suite enhances variable-data printing performance through use of cached object elements, dynamic text flow, data-driven graphics, data formatting, conditional processing and workflow improvements. FreeFlow Process Manager allows for automated workflow pre-building. FreeFlow Makeready creates a central interface for prepress activities. FreeFlow Web Services is a digital “storefront” for customer job ordering and management. FreeFlow Print Manager offers integrated job ticketing and printer management for offset and digital devices.

Xitron

Xitron develops RIPs and workflow solutions for small to mid-size printers including Navigator GPS, a RIP and workflow, and Xenith, for higher end printers. Navigator RIP Manager, an integrated component of Navigator GPS provides an entrée to workflow including Mac and Windows clients, softproofing and PDF creation and preflighting.

Xenith 4PDF and Xenith Extreme are fully featured Adobe Extreme workflows including such features as in-RIP trapping, Mac and PC clients, editable job tickets and support for the more than 150 output devices driven by Xitron solutions.