New ADOBE Components Enhance KODAK Unified Workflow Solutions
CHICAGO, Oct. 15—One plus one is adding up to endless possibilities with the combination of KODAK Unified Workflow solutions and new technologies from Adobe. As part of Graph Expo 2006 technology demonstrations of the new KODAK PRINERGY workflow system, version 4, Kodak will highlight how the new ADOBE PDF Print Engine technology and the ADOBE FLEX development environment helped Kodak improve the newest PRINERGY system release.
“The PRINERGY 4 system takes advantage of new ADOBE technology developments to enhance the open, intelligently automated, modular and expandable architecture of KODAK Unified Workflow solutions,” said Stan Coleman, General Manager, KODAK Unified Workflow solutions. “Kodak is providing customers with JDF and PDF based solutions that automate and optimize the print process. These solutions integrate production, business and color workflows, touching different stages of the print process, including PDF creation and preflight, PDF productivity tools, prepress or publishing workflow systems proofing, and output devices.”
First announced at IPEX 2006, the ADOBE PDF Print Engine is a new printing platform being incorporated by OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) into printing products such as Raster Image Processors (RIPs), previewing and proofing software, and workflow systems. The ADOBE PDF Print Engine will be incorporated in a number of KODAK solutions, including all configurations of KODAK PRINERGY workflow systems, and enhances the performance and handling of complex print files containing advanced PDF technology elements.
Currently, PRINERGY workflow system users can color manage, trap and proof PDF files with transparency by applying flattening in the workflow. With the ADOBE PDF Print Engine, coupled with enhanced PRINERGY software file processing, transparencies are preserved at all stages of the workflow to an output device, providing more flexibility for late stage file corrections and output decisions. A native PDF RIP technology, the ADOBE PDF Print Engine, will allow the PRINERGY workflow system to provide faster, more reliable file processing. The fact that the ADOBE PDF Print Engine uses the same rendering technology available in the creative desktop applications also ensures greater consistency throughout the print process. Importantly, the ADOBE Print Engine uses JDF to capture and control process information, helping PRINERGY workflow systems further extend the KODAK Unified Workflow solution architecture and provide opportunities to implement richer integration and automation options.
Also being demonstrated with PRINERGY 4 software at Graph Expo is the new PRINERGY software “Dashboard,” a browser based production and status tool developed with Adobe’s new FLEX development environment. Dashboard gives operators and customer service representatives better visibility of the production process with an overall view of job status. FLEX tools provided Kodak the means to offer an exceptional user experience by creating a rich new graphical web interface that is accessible and broadly supported.
“The KODAK Unified Workflow architecture is a powerful solution for the print industry,” said Don Walker, Senior Director of Product Marketing and Business Development, Adobe. “Now, PRINERGY workflow systems incorporating the ADOBE PDF Print Engine canfurther enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the architecture to drivericher, more effectiveend to end workflows.”
KODAK products are backed by KODAK Service and Support, Kodak’s worldwide service organization. Named Best Support Organization at the 2006 International Business Awards, KODAK Service and Support includes more than 3,000 professionals in 120 countries. These professionals are fully qualified to help customers control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.
About Eastman Kodak Company
Kodak is the world’s foremost imaging innovator, providing leading products and services to the photographic, graphic communications and healthcare markets. With sales of $14.3 billion in 2005, the company is committed to a digitally oriented growth strategy focused on helping people better use meaningful images and information in their life and work. Consumers use Kodak’s system of digital and traditional image capture products and services to take, print and share their pictures anytime, anywhere; Businesses effectively communicate with customers worldwide using KODAK solutions for prepress, conventional and digital printing and document imaging; Creative Professionals rely on KODAK technology to uniquely tell their story through moving or still images; and leading Healthcare organizations rely on Kodak’s innovative products, services and customized workflow solutions to help improve patient care and maximize efficiency and information sharing within and across their enterprise. More information about Kodak (NYSE: EK) is available at http://www.kodak.com/.
For more information about Kodak’s Graphic Communications Group, visit http://www.graphics.kodak.com/.
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(Kodak and Prinergy are trademarks of Eastman Kodak Company.)
2006