Fuji Xerox has released the fourth generation of its FreeFlow Core workflow software, including better automation and VDP functions.

Software marketing manager Peter Brittliff says the new output management and variable data printing modules will help printers be more efficient and work smarter.

“Today’s printers need to produce more jobs per shift to grow revenue, and they need to do it as efficiently as possible to make any profit,” he says.

“With wages representing more than 25 per cent of an Australian printer’s typical cost base, less manual intervention means more jobs done, more revenue and more profit.”

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The manufacturer points to an InfoTrends survey indicating about 60 per cent of printers, particular SMEs, want to automate more processes in their operation.

Calling it a ‘major step forward’ Fuji Xerox says the software is a browser-based, open architecture system that automatically processes print jobs, from initial file preparation to final production, including finishing

“It removes time consuming prepress steps by automating decision making processes, so job files move seamlessly from one step to the next,” it says.

“By reducing the manual handling in print job processes there will be fewer errors, leading to better final results – and happier customers.”

The software can integrate with web-to-print setups or other workflow software and includes a new variable data printing module converts print jobs to PDF, generating cost savings through speed, efficiency, and staff costs.

The new output management module collects, groups and routes jobs through the print shop, and aggregates similar jobs based on customers’ criteria by automatically building personalised functions and release triggers, allowing print providers to gang-up jobs for extra cost/time savings.

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