PLAN, IMPOSE, GANG, PACK

JDF CERTIFIED FULLY AUTOMATED PLANNING & IMPOSITION SOFTWARE FOR ANY KIND OF PRINT JOB – PUBLISHING, COMMERCIAL, DIGITAL PRINTING & PACKAGING

FEATURES:

1. AUTOMATION BASED ON HOLISTIC OPTIMIZATION

IMP is a CIP4/JDF certified automatic job planning software which minimizes cost by optimal usage of resources such as printing press, paper, binding and time.

2. AVOIDING HUMAN ERRORS

IMP drastically reduces material and time wastages caused due to human errors through automation and context sensitive warnings. Extreme care and effort has gone in to make sure that no problem will go unnoticed by the operator. IMP constantly evaluates the imposition against more that 30 predefined common problems and raises contextual warnings whenever and whereever required. IMP excels in identifying problems and bringing them to the operator’s attention as it is aware of all the details related to the final finished product and the manufacturing environment.

3. AUTO GANGING

IMP derives its expertise in ganging from MetaCAM, Metamation’s world leading sheet-metal CAD/CAM software. With a single click it can automatically gang multiple print jobs across different sheet sizes, materials and presses. Imp can combine jobs of different quantities, colors & coating requirements. With IMP, the user has the option to pool the entire day’s jobs together, set the priorities and then automatically generate a gang layout just-in-time for production. Such a work flow will enable the organization to absorb last minute changes in job priorities.

4. SEAMLESS JDF INTEGRATION

Being a JDF certified product, IMP can seamlessly integrate with any JDF enabled prepress system. It is certified against the JDF 1.3 Layout Creator to Imposition ICS (LayCrImp) standard.  IMP also generates cutting and folding data that can automate any JDF enabled cutting or folding machines.

5. INNOVATIVE UI ELIMINATES LEARNING CURVE

With IMP, any operator is an expert from the first instant. There is literally no learning to be done as the user-friendly WYSIWYG interface is innovatively designed with different work panes. Parametric folding templates allow last minute changes to be done without layout recreations and also eliminate the necessity of storing imposition templates. Marks can be dynamically positioned on the layout by simply dragging and dropping them. Live previews of the PDF content along with marks can be seen to scale at every stage.  As each and every action can be undone/redone virtually without limit, the operator enjoys tremendous freedom to experiment.

6. WEBFED SUPPORT

Comprehensive support for Customized web folding templates for Single web and multiple webfed printing machines. User can even define multiple deliveries for slitting option and the same template can be used for duplicate deliveries.

7. BEYOND THE REALM OF PLANNING & IMPOSITION

Special marks templates, powered by customizable placement and substitution rules can automatically adapt to any imposition layout irrespective of its size, colors, work style and so on. Intelligent automation commands place crop and fold marks even for complex ganged jobs with ease. Text and collation marks are automatically customized based on individual job properties. Imp allows the operator to edit PDF contents and work with a flexible runlist.

8. COMPREHENSIVE REPORTS

Imp provides comprehensive job reports that can be tailored to suit your need. Automatically dimensioned, detailed layout reports can be generated at the click of a button.

9. PACKAGING WORKFLOW

At the click of a button, Imp’s powerful nesting and step-n-repeat engine can create efficient packaging layouts from single up dieline. It automatically handles bleed overlapping issues in different regions of the layout. Single up artwork is used to populate the layout. Dieline can be imported from a DXF or PDF file.

10. Cutting Edge Imposition Features

Marks templates, powered by customizable placement and rules can automatically adapt to any imposition layout irrespective of its size, colors & work style. Text and collation marks are automatically customized based on individual job properties. Intelligent automation commands place crop and fold marks even for complex ganged jobs with ease. As the operator always works with a to scale representation of the imposition layout with actual PDF content and marks in place, one can be sure that what you see is what you get.

11. POWERED BY ADOBE PDF LIBRARY

IMP uses Adobe® PDF library tools to manage PDF files. As it is the same rendering engine that forms the core of Adobe® Acrobat®, stability and consistency are guaranteed.

Switch unleashes the power of your existing systems, software, and people; maximizing capabilities that often have not even been utilized before.

You’ve already invested in excellent solutions, and Switch maximizes these at minimum cost by reaching into conventional and new cross-media files and systems to optimize their capabilities and connect them in intelligent ways, thereby creating the smartest, automated production workflow in existence.

Safeguard your previous investments in systems, training, and people; and use existing tools in a smart way. 

Open Architecture: Democratic, Future proof Systems
The reason why Enfocus products work with all other products so well; and can pull data and functions from those other products, is its open architecture philosophy. This allows companies the most freedom for the least investment in money and time.

Switch was engineered to provide numerous advantages — especially automation — for the money. All you have to do is tell Switch what functions or applications you want to tie together and automate – and it does it.

A lot of manufacturers – especially those representing the most popular applications used in Graphical arts – have built configurators that eliminate the need to script the “bridge” between their software and Switch. Those who have built configurators have stepped forward to become members of Enfocus Crossroads, the value-add Enfocus-hosted community around Switch (see separate document). Other integrations are also possible through scripting. 

Despite Enfocus’ unparalleled experience, knowledge, and handling of the PDF format, Switch is file format neutral.  In a multi channel world, with ‘multi-channel’ workflows; Switch goes beyond ‘print’ automation to manage jobs from inception to all types of electronic and hard copy output.

Switch just as easily and seamlessly integrates with software on the edge and outside of graphic arts, such as MIS, DAM, Web-to-Print, and databases.

What’s New in Switch 11?

One of the major developments in Switch 11 is the reconfigured product line offering, which will make it easier for organizations to match their needs with Switch solutions now and into the future.

Instead of choosing between 3 versions of Switch (Light, Full & Power), customers will be able to completely customize Switch according to their specific needs, via specific modules.

Enfocus is arming customers by giving them a solution that can easily evolve with their needs. Modules enable customization and flexibility that businesses need to stay ahead of competition. Once new needs emerge and new requirements come up, the solution can be expanded with additional modules.

What does Switch do?

Switch is a modular software solution that integrates with existing systems and drives third party applications to speed up job processing, reduce errors, and automate repetitive tasks. Automating tasks with Switch frees up your staff’s time so they can focus on new revenue-generating activities.

Switch eliminates the need for people to perform repetitive tasks associated with receiving and sorting files. It automatically downloads files from one or more FTP servers, receives them as email attachments, or handles hot folders. It then sorts files into different folders or transmits them to the appropriate destination in a flexible manner, so that each is ready for processing or archiving.

All of this functionality is driven by an easy interface that depicts the components and steps of your workflow using simple icons. You create flows by answering a few questions or import sample flows that are ready to use from the Crossroads community website.

What you decide to have Switch do, beyond these simple functions, is up to you. For example, you can have Switch send notification emails to your customer service representatives or even directly back to clients, whenever needed. Switch enables automation and integration of 3^rd party applications used in the graphic arts industry as well as MIS, DAM, Web-to-Print and databases. It also enables seamless integration for the Enfocus PitStop Server and PitStop Connect.

Switch is a reliable solution, even in demanding environments. Scalability and intelligence can be improved with optional scripting, database & metadata modules.

Bottom line The new modular approach expands the reach of Switch automation through the entire publishing and digital content creation process, from creation through production, independent of file format, by allowing you to choose the right functionality to meet businesses’ needs, today and in the future.

Why choose Switch? Benefits

Is this you?

Small through large companies, already operating with fewer people than ever, must remain competitive. At the same time, you are trying to determine your organizations’ place in the future and differentiate yourself from your competitors.

Customised automation: Many workflow applications on the market come with a predefined idea of how your company should go about its business processes. This is NOT the case with Switch! Switch offers a flexible, configurable and at the time affordable solution that will evolve with your needs.

Switch 11 is modular in design, allowing customers to purchase just the modules they need for their workflow; keeping the initial investment low and making Switch one of the most cost effective workflow automation solutions on the market today.

Easy integration with existing systems: Switch allows your company to continue using those applications on which it already relies. Simply integrate Adobe Acrobat Distiller, Enfocus PitStop Server, Quark XPress, Microsoft Word and many other key publishing applications with existing workflows. These flows can instantly create PDF files, preflight documents, correct or proof colors as needed, and much more.

More information is available on the Enfocus Crossroads community website (www.crossroads-world.com)

Scalable system: Switch is suitable for any kind of company, large or small. Whether your company uses a simple flow for file handling or an advanced flow that relies on multiple configurators and links to other business software, Switch always pays for itself  — and quickly. It evolves with your business, which makes it future proof.

Reliable, even in demanding environments: Switch is developed and supported by Enfocus, a leading company in bringing affordable and reliable solutions to the graphic arts industry with over 100,000 customers worldwide.

Switch is designed to guarantee robust and reliable operation in any type of environment. It adapts to your needs through the new modular approach.

Supported by a complete community: Enfocus has a worldwide network of local experts ready to help you with implementing Switch.

Enfocus Crossroads is a complete community with users, integrators and application partners, and as a Switch user you will here find a wealth of instant resources at your fingertips. The Enfocus Crossroads website offers comprehensive information to get started with Switch like example Switch automation flows, a forum, a blog with guest expert writers, and much more.

Overview of Switch Offerings

Switch Core Engine

Switch Core Engine enables powerful file management such as sorting, routing and tracking of files. Every company is confronted with these kinds of tasks on a daily basis. Automation gives them the ability to reduce errors and standardize procedures, which will reduce costs. The Switch Core Engine also enables PDF-specific handling like split and merge PDF files. To lift your workflow to an intelligent level, Switch enables you to use the information already available in jobs to make routing decisions for example based on file naming conventions, the number of pages or colors, etc..

Research shows that over 50% of Enfocus product users would purchase Switch for these primary operations, only!

When a business is ready and able to start automating more complex operations, Enfocus offers a whole range of modules:

For Integration Requirements:

Configurator Module:

Enables integration, control and automation of the most popular 3rd party (Enfocus Crossroads* partner) applications in the graphical industry. Building solutions for preflight, imposition, color management and many more is a breeze with those ready to use configurators. You are able to use the tools you are already using today or you feel free to choose the tools that suits your needs best.

For those with specific needs, Switch offers the necessary tools to integrate in a very effective way, through hot folders, CLI or scripting.

Database Module: 

The Database module for Switch automates the communication between a database application and Switch. Scripting is no longer required, making it easier and faster for customers and integrators to build communication paths between Switch and an MIS or any database. This module makes database integration accessible to more integrators and customers by allowing them to:

·     Use values from a database wherever Switch can use variables.

·     Read, write, update and delete info in databases whenever a job passes the new “Database connector” flow element.

·     Visualize content straight from a database in SwitchClient and PitStop Connect.

 Metadata Module: Much like the database module, this module enhances workflow intelligence by using existing information stored in XML or JDF tickets or as XMP data.

• Use metadata wherever Switch uses variables, for example to route files or process jobs dynamically.
• Update or add information in XMP packages.
• Visualize variable content in SwitchClient and PitStop Connect.

By reusing this information Switch enables you to get the most out of previous investments and personalize your service to customers

Scripting Module:

Enables Switch to take advantage of custom-developed Visual Basic Scripts, Java Scripts or AppleScripts. A separate SwitchScripter application is provided to assist the user in the development and debugging of scripts. This module literally makes the sky the limit as it gives you to freedom to completely customize your workflow to your needs.

Performance module:

To boost performance of Switch Core Engine and get the ultimate processing power out of advanced hardware configurations, with multiple processors and high amounts of RAM memory, you can extend the number of processes that Switch is executing simultaneously.

Stand-Alone Functionality and Communication Modules:

SwitchClient Module:

SwitchClient Module is a separate desktop application that is used to submit jobs into Switch flows, and is used to interact with jobs where required.

The SwitchClient Module comes with 5 SwitchClient licenses, enabling 5 separate SwitchClients to run and access Switch simultaneously. Additional clients can be purchased.

Switch Web Services Module:

This module enables 3rd party applications such as web portals to integrate and drive Switch. Improve customer service by allowing your customers to submit files straight from a familiar environment like your company website. It enables them to track and approve jobs directly in Switch without having to leave the comfort zone of your company website.

SwitchProxy module:

Users and their IT departments can count on extra peace of mind through SwitchProxy. This proxy server ensures network security and business continuity: clients can always deliver data to your company’s server even while it is being maintained or updated.

System Requirements

Windows®

Microsoft® Windows® XP SP2Professional or Home Edition

Microsoft® Windows® 2003 Server Standard or Enterprise Edition (32-bit and 64-bit, running in 32-bit mode)

Microsoft® Windows® 7, Home Premium, Business or Ultimate Edition (32-bit and 64-bit)

Microsoft® Windows® 2008 Server Standard or Enterprise Edition (32-bit and 64-bit, running in 32-bit mode)

Microsoft® Windows® 2008 Server R2 Standard or Enterprise Edition (64-bit, running in 32-bit-mode)

Macintosh®

Mac OS® X or Mac OS® X Server v.10.5, 10.6 and 10.7

StuffIt Expander 10 or higher (for expansion of the installer package)

Hardware

Dual Core processor (Quad core recommended)

Minimum 2 GB of RAM (4 GB recommended)

1024×768 screen resolution

MAC Intel Only

One of the major developments in Switch 11 is the reconfigured product line offering, which will make it easier for organizations to match their needs with Switch solutions now and into the future.

Instead of choosing between 3 versions of Switch (Light, Full & Power), customers will be able to completely customize Switch according to their specific needs, via specific modules.

The life of a print and publishing professional is filled with repetitive tasks that nevertheless require their undivided attention. They cannot afford to make mistakes, yet they would rather spend their time on more creative and value-adding tasks. Thanks to Switch, this is now possible.

What does Switch do?

Switch removes the repetitive tasks associated with receiving and sorting files. It automatically downloads files from one or more FTP servers, receives them as email attachments, or handles hot folders. It then sorts files into different folders or transmits them to the appropriate staff in a flexible manner so that each is ready for processing or archiving.

Switch sends notification emails to your customer service representatives or even directly back to clients whenever needed. Switch can also deliver files through email or FTP to the next step in the workflow. FullSwitch and PowerSwitch automatically interface with third-party applications used within your company.

All of this functionality is driven by the visual flow editor that is the core of all Switch products. The flow wizard allows you to create flows by answering a few questions or import sample flows that are ready to go. In addition, the full power of the visual editor can be used after the flow wizard is finished to make adjustments or expand the flow.

What are the benefits of Switch?

Switch removes the repetitive tasks associated with receiving and sorting files. It automatically downloads files from one or more FTP servers, receives them as email attachments, or handles hot folders. It then sorts files into different folders or transmits them to the appropriate staff in a flexible manner so that each is ready for processing or archiving.

Switch sends notification emails to your customer service representatives or even directly back to clients whenever needed. Switch can also deliver files through email or FTP to the next step in the workflow. FullSwitch and PowerSwitch automatically interface with third-party applications used within your company.

All of this functionality is driven by the visual flow editor that is the core of all Switch products. The flow wizard allows you to create flows by answering a few questions or import sample flows that are ready to go. In addition, the full power of the visual editor can be used after the flow wizard is finished to make adjustments or expand the flow.

Why choose Switch?

Customized automation: Many workflow applications on the market come with a predefined idea of how your company should go about its business processes. This is NOT the case with Switch! Switch offers an easy-to-use visual interface enabling processes to be automated using simple drag-and-drop features.

Easy integration with existing systems: Switch allows your company to continue using those applications on which it already relies. Simply integrate Adobe Acrobat Distiller, Enfocus PitStop Server, Quark XPress, and many other key publishing applications into existing workflows. These flows can instantly create PDF files, preflight documents, and correct or proof colors as needed.

Scalable system: Switch is suitable for any kind of company, large or small. Whether your company uses a simple flow for file handling or an advanced flow that relies on multiple configurators and links to other business software, Switch always pays itself back.

Reliable, even in demanding environments: Switch is designed to guarantee robust and reliable operation in any type of environment. Data security is absolute during all file transfers.

Switch is available in three versions:

LightSwitch is designed for small publishing companies that wish to free up time for more creative tasks by automating file reception.

FullSwitch is ideally suited for larger publishing companies seeking greater integration among their various software applications.

PowerSwitch is primarily designed for use in more complex environments.

The video below shows an overview of Enfocus Switch 10

The table below summarizes the main features of the Switch 10 product suite:

One of the major developments in Switch 11 is the reconfigured product line offering, which will make it easier for organizations to match their needs with Switch solutions now and into the future.

Instead of choosing between 3 versions of Switch (Light, Full & Power), customers will be able to completely customize Switch according to their specific needs, via specific modules.

PowerSwitch — advanced workflow building

PowerSwitch uses comprehensive scripting and metadata tools enabling IT administrators to build a smarter and more advanced workflow that integrates seamlessly with third-party technologies.

Intelligent processing enabled by metadata tools

Workflows can often be made more intelligent by taking advantage of the metadata that is increasingly stored within documents. PowerSwitch provides tools to read incoming metadata in various formats including XML, Adobe XMP, and JDF. The contents of metadata fields can be used in flows to make routing decisions or to set processing parameters for automated tasks.

Customization through full scripting support

With PowerSwitch, IT administrators can create customized tools to control third-party applications that are not supported out-of-the-box, to integrate with a DAM or MIS system, or to interact with a proprietary solution running in the company. All the possibilities of scripted tools are built into PowerSwitch; it is even possible to customize icons. PowerSwitch supports JavaScript (on Mac OS X and Windows), AppleScript (on Mac OS X) and Visual Basic Scripting (on Windows).

System Requirements

Switch 10 supports the following operating systems:

One of the major developments in Switch 11 is the reconfigured product line offering, which will make it easier for organizations to match their needs with Switch solutions now and into the future.

Instead of choosing between 3 versions of Switch (Light, Full & Power), customers will be able to completely customize Switch according to their specific needs, via specific modules.

FullSwitch — integration of third-party applications

In addition to the LightSwitch features, FullSwitch introduces configurators that enable third-party applications such as Adobe Acrobat Distiller, Adobe Creative Suite, Enfocus PitStop Server, and many more to be integrated easily into a flow. Setup and automation of such applications is fully controlled from within FullSwitch. The visual editor makes it as easy to work with configurators as it is to work with built-in tools.

System Requirements

Switch 10 supports the following operating systems:

One of the major developments in Switch 11 is the reconfigured product line offering, which will make it easier for organizations to match their needs with Switch solutions now and into the future.

Instead of choosing between 3 versions of Switch (Light, Full & Power), customers will be able to completely customize Switch according to their specific needs, via specific modules.

LightSwitch — automate  file handling

LightSwitch contains all of the basic features required to automate the downloading of files from one or more FTP or mail servers. It automatically sorts received files and sends them to the relevant location or staff according to the defined workflow. LightSwitch also delivers files through email or FTP to the next step in the workflow. The flow wizard allows users to easily create and modify workflows.  LightSwitch also offers professional activity logging and job processing statistics to help your company locate critical points in the workflow.

System Requirements

Switch 10 supports the following operating systems:

Pre-flight allows us to check that the items within the file or files are able to be produced to the best quality for the desired media.

Pre-Flight is ideally carried out by those submitting the file for print. The problem is that Pre-Flight is not an exact science. What may be OK for some customers would be an issue for others,  a basic example of this is the resolution of an image. The case may occur that an image is of unsuitable resolution to be produced at optimum quality but this does not mean that the image cannot be produced at the lower resolution. The decision should quite clearly be made by the originator as to proceeding with the job.  The second most common issue is that of images supplied in an RGB colour space. In the whole print is a CMYK process and RGB images require converting from RGB to CMYK somewhere along the line.  Although these files can and often are converted within the Prepress process the conversion used is not always optimum.

Quit clearly the responsibility for supplying a file with the correct parameters is best left with the originator if they require a consistent and predictable result.

Hot folders within the workflow can be used to attach a list of predefined processes that require little or no human intervention. Files can be submitted to Hot Folder by any user that has access rights.

Any automation project has to take in to account the abilities of the existing prepress workflow as this can be used in conjunction to provide advanced automation.

There are many improvements that can be achieved by automating aspects of the file delivery process. Many companies rely upon a mixture of file delivery processes to receive customer files these methods often include CD packages supplied by postal services, files arriving by e-mail, files arriving by FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and those uploaded via web sites.

Problems can occur when we have a mismatch of file receiving options. In the past printers in general relied upon smaller numbers of jobs with longer run lengths to fill their daily production schedules but with the onset of digital technologies and easier access to quick print, customers are requiring smaller runs and quicker turnaround times. Those still adopting systems of receiving and handling files that are out dated may have issues with managing the amount of jobs required to keep up with the production requirements of modern day digital print systems.

For example internal sales receive a file for a job that needs to be printed the next day. As they do not have the necessary skills or software to detect any potential issues with the file there is a need to forward the file to  a member of staff that has the required skill and access to the software to check the file is ok for print.  The member of staff receiving the file is busy carrying out other tasks so he does not have the time to look at the file. Hours go by and the customer that supplied the file originally needs to know the file is ok as they have to go to a meeting.  Eventually the member of staff checking the file has a chance to look at it and finds problems. The sales person contacts the customer but he by now is in the meeting and the deadline for print is missed.

So let’s look at the same scenario with a small level of automation involved.

• Scenario 1  The customer sends the file as in the original example, the sales person takes the file and submits it to an automated PDF file checking program.  The file checking program lists the problems in the file within a report. The report is automatically e-mailed back to the sales person and forwarded to the customer. The customer checks the report and carries out any adjustments required and a new file is created. The new file is submitted to automated file checking and is ready to become a production job.
• Scenario 2 The customer logs on to your internal FTP system, they fill out a form and upload the file into the system. The file is checked automatically and the resulting report is e-mailed directly back to them, any file issues are resolved and the file is supplied ready for print. Internal production receives an e-mail with the details of the form filled out by the customer.
• Scenario 3 The customer receives an application from you that checks the status of the file prior to submitting into you company.  Only files that meet the requirements are received guaranteeing the smooth processing of the file within your workflow.

A basic template is created for a 4up A4 press defining the numbering scheme for the first 8 pages. This template is then suitable to be used for any amount of pages equally devisable by 8.

This is extended by allowing multiple templates to be used at the same time. EG: 12 page job that requires a single 8 page sheet-work signature and a single 4 page work & turn signature.

To push the level forward some of the imposition software doesn’t require you to have a fixed page size so the same template can be used for multiple page sizes and multiple amounts of pages.

So what levels of automation are currently available to improve on the semi-automated methods above?

Hot folders can be defined with some software to automatically process the job based on the assigned template. This can be beneficial but can be difficult to manage outside of a Prepress workflow as it becomes difficult to track the status of the job and it’s history. But can work well in some companies depending on the type of work they produce.

Traditionally within print the process imposition has been carried out by the Prepress department. Production planners or estimators would manually fold dummies of how a product needed to be positioned on the sheet to fold correctly defining appropriate gutters between the pages.

Modern systems allow us to move the process of imposition to the production planner or estimator. Impositions can be digitally created based on folding requirements, various jobs can be combined to reduce paper and plate usage and the imposed data can be sent directly to the prepress workflow bypassing manual folding dummies and additional input from prepress staff.

By implementing such systems there are clear savings in time and reduction in errors.