Peninsulas of Automation?

While Drupa booths might have looked like those islands of automation everyone talks about, a closer look at software demonstrations proved that there is a good deal of connectivity developing behind the scenes among vendors.

Dalim Software's new DALiM TWiST JDF connectivity package, for example, could be seen connecting to and driving applications such as Alwan CMYK Optimizer directly from its workflow via JDF communication standards.

“Basically, the application becomes a DALiM TWiST tool,” says Bertin Sorgenfrey, head of international marketing at Dalim. “There is a certain amount of handshake information exchanged, the workflow sends the file, the application processes it, and the file returns to the workflow when the task is done.” Alwan's Ink Optimizer, profiled in a cover story this issue (p.28) controls gray component replacement and under color removal to optimize ink usage on press. Linking the two plays up advantages of each application. CMYK Optimizer offers unique features and technology for color pre-flight and standardization.

Similarly, GMG and Dalim presented a common solution for integrating GMG applications into DALiM TWiST. Automated color conversions via GMG ColorSever, proofing via GMG ColorProof and FlexoProof, and optimization of data for printing processes with GMG InkOptimizer are fully supported. Dalim Software's 'GMG-Link', a plug-in that allows for direct access to GMG FlowConnect via a JDF-interface, lets processing parameters for color conversions be chosen directly in DALiM TWiST. Status information from GMG Connect is also displayed immediately. Thus, the administration of the whole workflow process is simplified, as all status information is visible on the same user interface. GMG Connect software also permits simple integration of GMG products into other workflows, such as Kodak Prinergy or any third-party products supporting JDF or other XML-based protocols.

Right behind the GMG booth, EskoArtwork showed products from recently acquired Gradual Software under the Enfocus brand umbrella. One example was Switch 08, a workflow automation tool for ad agencies, publishers and printers. FullSwitch and PowerSwitch “configurators” allow third-party applications to be integrated easily into a flow, fully controlled from within Switch. Automated applications include preflight and correction, color management, proofing, repurposing tools and others.

Users can create custom tools to control third-party applications that aren't supported out of the box, to integrate with a DAM or MIS system—or proprietary solution—for example. New configurators in Switch 08 included one for Ultimate Impostrip On Demand Digital, and another that automates the EFI Bestcolor technology-driven platform for economically proofing large- and wide-format production and inkjet printouts.

Similar examples abounded throughout drupa. Vendors can't be everything to everyone, and the more they connect, the better for users. Maybe “peninsulas” of automation is a more apt term?

ONLINE: alwancolor.com, dalim.com and gmgcolor.com