ROCHESTER, N.Y., September 9, 2005 - Kodak's Graphic Communications Group (GCG) today announced new integration capabilities for the KODAK NEXPRESS digital production color presses that are built around the open architecture of Job Definition Format (JDF), allowing strong connectivity to both offset and digital workflows. In addition to Kodak's PRINERGY and SMARTBOARD workflow products, the PRINECT SYSTEM of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG is one of the first workflow architectures which will take advantage of this connectivity. These capabilities provide customers the ability to capitalize on their current investments in workflow, and easily integrate the NEXPRESS products into their environments. In doing so, the customer can gain cost efficiencies for jobs that may benefit from both digital and offset as part of the overall production process. "Customers who have seen the integrated technology have responded with great enthusiasm," said Venkat Purushotham, general manager and vice president, Digital Printing Solutions, GCG. “The system offers clear advantages that can make customers more competitive for both offset and digital jobs.” Examples of how customers are looking to take advantage of these new tools include: - Fast, efficient proofing of offset jobs on KODAK NEXPRESS digital production color presses - Short runs on digital presses for quick response jobs - Specialized versioned subsets of longer run offset jobs - Elimination of the need for press overruns on offset presses For example, using Job Definition Format (JDF) as the means of interoperability, a HEIDELBERG PRINECT system will feed print jobs to the NEXPRESS press and receive updates as the job progresses. Depending on job length, the same job also might be sent to a computer-to-plate system, or to a direct imaging offset press. Using a common front-end solution enables print providers to create standardized processes across their operation, leveraging their investment in both products and in their expertise. Kodak is committed to making it easier for customers to take advantage of the benefits of both offset and digital printing. "Both technologies will coexist for a very long time for commercial print customers," said Purushotham. "As such, we will deliver a strong edge to our customers by providing their clients the benefits of jobs produced in either technology." As part of the integrated product offering, the Kodak professional services team will work directly with other vendors' support organizations to tailor solutions to specific customer needs and provide fast response to changes in the customer environment.