Rochester, NY - A powerful new Packaging Layout Automation (PLA) feature with KODAK PRINERGY POWERPACK Workflow helps package printers reduce operational costs, improve production efficiencies and increase time-to-market. The only automated packaging layout software, the PLA capability uses KODAK PRINERGY Rules-Based Automation Software and the advanced imposition engine of KODAK PANDORA Step-and-Repeat Software to speed and streamline complex packaging jobs. The new feature will help packaging printers eliminate thousands of layout templates previously required to manage complex packaging production workflows.

"In today's competitive consumer goods market, brand managers need packaging delivered faster than ever and at consistently high levels of quality," said Jon Bracken, General Manager, Unified Workflow Group, Kodak. "Working through our global development team, Kodak uses these challenges as a benchmark to drive advancements in its workflow software that meet these goals by establishing previously unattainable levels of automation."

Built on the award-winning PRINERGY Rules-Based Automation Software, the PLA feature enables easy entry of project information using customizable electronic job tickets for quick, efficient layout creation. Users can then set up validation rules to eliminate common operator errors and automate comparisons of input parameters against "known" manufacturing specifications stored in the KODAK PRINERGY Oracle Database relevant to materials and equipment.

The PLA feature also eliminates redundant data through automating processing upon receipt of JDF or XML input files from MIS/ERP Systems, which contain specific layers and rules. To further increase efficiency, PLA software triggers automation through customer interaction that takes place using the KODAK INSITE Prepress Portal System.

"Automating these and other functions frees up operators to focus on higher-margin prepress processes such as creative design, dimensional elements and color retouching," said Stephen Miller, Product Manager, Production Workflow Systems, Kodak. "This helps them deliver more value to their customers through stand-out packaging that yields a greater return on marketing investment."

KODAK Products are backed by KODAK Service and Support. KODAK Service and Support is made up of more than 3,000 professionals in 120 countries. It is a leading multi-vendor integrated services provider, delivering consulting, installation, maintenance and support services for commercial printing, graphic communications, document imaging, data storage and retail industries. KODAK Service and Support professionals are uniquely qualified to provide services that control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.