PDF WORKFLOW--Still a Juggling Act

Some of the systems cited incorporate either the Rampage RIPing system or Harlequin ScriptWorksRIP with MaxWorkFlows technology. Both products support PDF and are primarily marketed by OEMs, although Rampage also is offered by dealers. (www.rampageinc.com and www.harlequin.com)

While not in quite the same league, Enfocus recently introduced its Certified Workflow concept and Certify PDF plug-in for Adobe Acrobat. Part of the concept is to move preflighting responsibility upstream to job creators, through the use of the plug-in, Acrobat and preflight profiles supplied by print providers. The preflight profile and results are attached to the PDF document, so the receiver can verify success of the preflight.

Print providers also can use the technology in conjunction with Enfocus' other PDF tools to keep a detailed log (contained within the file) of all changes made to a PDF document and by which user. A "roll back" mechanism enables users to revert back to a snapshot of the file at any early stage of production. The company also has committed to making the code available to third parties so their products can be Certified Workflow compliant. (www.enfocus.com)

For a look at some utilities that can help to support a PDF workflow, visit www.piworld.com.