Creo Demonstrates Darwin Variable Information Authoring Tool
Press release from the issuing company
CHICAGO--Oct. 10, 2004-- Creo Inc. is demonstrating a new version of Darwin VI authoring tool that supports the growing demand for Adobe InDesign CS software. Based on the powerful Darwin(TM) VI authoring tool, this application enables InDesign users to design, author and manage personalized variable information documents. Darwin is widely used by designers, advertising agencies and marketing professionals in many industries to enhance the value of direct marketing through personalization.
"With InDesign CS and Adobe Creative Suite we combined powerhouse production capabilities with unmatched tools for our customers to express their creativity," said Don Walker, general manager of publishing technologies and services at Adobe Systems. "Variable Data Publishing is a key area of growth for the printing industry and Adobe customers. Now InDesign users can use Darwin to produce personalized multi-channel campaigns quickly and efficiently, and output them reliably."
Running natively on Mac OS X, the Darwin VI authoring tool turns Adobe InDesign documents into variable data documents where every element is dynamic - text, graphics, charts, colors, layouts, backgrounds and even entire pages. The software efficiently handles large databases which is ideal for targeted marketing and promotional campaigns. Intuitive and easy-to-learn, the Darwin VI authoring tool offers a new Apple Aqua-based user interface and improved workflow, including a robust, standalone database engine that improves performance and flexibility.
As a plug-in to Adobe InDesign CS, Darwin enables users to work in a familiar environment and take advantage of InDesign functionalities. VI users can design their master layout with InDesign and easily embed the variable information with drag-and-drop operations using Darwin to create personalized documents - without leaving the program.
The new Darwin VI authoring tool for InDesign software is an affordable solution for efficient production of full-color VI documents. Using simple rule-based logic, functions can be automated without scripting or programming. Output formats include Creo Variable Print Specifications for optimal speed and performance with a Spire(TM) color server, PostScript, and Optimized PostScript.
The Darwin VI authoring tool for InDesign users will be available in early 2005.
New! Automate VI Workflow with Darwin 6.1.1
Creo is also demonstrating at Graph Expo the latest version of the Darwin Variable Information tool for QuarkXPress 6.1 users. Darwin 6.1.1 is a Mac OS X native application that features faster, more efficient variable information production. New automation features include hot folders and web integration, an automatic U.S. zip code delivery point, rich data labeling and others.
Optimize Variable Information Production on the PC
Creo is also demonstrating the recently announced VI Toolbox, a Windows-based software solution for creating entry-level variable-information jobs. VI Toolbox is affordable, flexible, and easy to use for streamlining the creation of personalized direct mail, letters and customized collateral with commonly used applications.
VI Toolbox includes three separate applications, each with distinct functionality to maximize VI production workflow. They support VI for pre-printed offset shells, proofing and archiving of VI files, and optimize Microsoft Word mail merge for VI jobs with an unlimited number of records.
Additional product information and demonstration versions of the Darwin 6.1.1 and VI Toolbox applications are available at www.creo.com/darwin and www.creo.com/vitoolbox. See live demonstrations of all of Creo's variable information products at booth # 4006 at Graph Expo 2004, North America's largest trade show for the printing and graphic arts industries, in Chicago, IL, October 10-13, 2004. These products are available through Creo and Xerox sales channels. For information about the other products Creo is demonstrating at Graph Expo, visit www.creo.com/news.