DRUPA 2004, DUSSELDORF, GERMANY -- May 13, 2004 -- Creo introduces version 3.0 of Synapse UpFront, an innovative planning solution that can add an extra percentage point to printers' bottom line through improved planning and efficiency gains. Creo is demonstrating Synapse UpFront software at drupa 2004, the largest international trade show for print media production. Version 3.0 of Synapse UpFront expands the current JDF data imported from management information systems (MIS) to JDF 1.1a and can now export the data back to MIS. Other new features include new cutting styles and support for 5, 7, 9, 10, 12 and 16 sections per layout plan, and expanded page-limit per section-plan from 100 to 256. JDF 1.1a finishing data is also now exported directly to drive cutters, folders, saddle-stitchers, and soft cover binders for automating time-consuming steps in the production cycle. Synapse Upfront software imports JDF files from estimating systems that allow planners or customers to job plan quickly, based on the original estimate. After completing the job planning process, UpFront exports Preps templates and jobs complete with marks-saving time and reducing costly imposition errors. Using Synapse UpFront software results in dramatic decreases in labor costs in the planning department because manufacturing plans require less time to prepare and their accuracy is greatly improved. Labor costs in prepress are also reduced when detailed and accurate job plans are created in Synapse UpFront. Material costs are reduced as fewer plates are spoiled due to inaccurate layouts. On press, the benefits include efficiency gains in makeready due to more consistent use of standardized, accurate layouts.