Prepress
Enfocus announces PitStop Connect 10
Thursday 14. April 2011 - Printers and publishers enjoy streamlined production thanks to better integration with Switch 10 workflows, the usage of intelligent metadata and automatic Connector updates
PitStop Connect 10 connects printers and publishers with their customers, ensuring hassle-free file delivery and PDF quality control. By eliminating errors and streamlining the production process, users can save time, cut costs, reduce stress and improve customer satisfaction. New to PitStop Connect 10 is automatic updating of Connectors, secure file transfer and personalized service by using intelligent metadata through enhanced Switch 10 support.
PitStop Connect 10 allows printers and publishers to easily create and distribute Connectors, i.e. small desktop tools to which customers drag and drop files. It offers a single gateway for file transmission that can be made more predictable using Enfocus bulletproof PDF preflighting and correction technology within a Connector. Issues such as missing fonts and low-resolution images are detected, and if possible even corrected automatically.
Customized metadata fields can be set through integration with Switch, and can be used automatically for routing and processing decisions thereafter. Using Connectors significantly reduces job cycle times and costs, and makes file delivery a hassle-free process.
“All too often file delivery causes problems on both the production and creative sides of printing and publishing workflows,” says Elli Cloots, Director of Product Management at Enfocus. “What is needed is efficient communication between all parties, and that is precisely what PitStop Connect 10 delivers. It allows for streamlined delivery of files that will fly through the production process, and enables printers and publishers to cement business relationships with customers.”
PitStop Connect 10 not only benefits printers and publishers, it also makes life easier for creatives. They can save time and enjoy invaluable peace of mind knowing their files comply with the printers requirements and will be printed as intended – no more last-minute phone calls to correct errors.
Connectors are free for creatives and can be downloaded straight onto their desktop. Connectors do not require any installation and simply run when required. Those sending files are given immediate feedback when the file has been delivered correctly. For PDF files, the sender can view the preflight report to identify and solve any issues, or see the automated fixes that took place.
Whats new?
With PitStop Connect 10, whenever the printer or publisher changes preflight and delivery settings in a Connector, these settings are automatically updated and distributed to all installed Connectors. This ensures everyone in the delivery chain is working with the correct parameters.
Additionally, PitStop Connect 10 has a smooth interface with the Switch 10 suite of automated workflow solutions from Enfocus. Intelligent metadata fields can be set within the Connector so that customers only have to fill out relevant and personalized information. Once received at the printer or publisher side, files can be quickly and easily sorted, managed and processed. Through Switch and the integration with MIS and ERP systems, it is possible to re-use existing information and maximize efficiency and customer service. [1] <#_ftn1>
File transfer security has also been improved, using the industry-standard SFTP. PitStop Connect 10 is also compatible with the latest preflight technology and PDF standards. This includes Preflight Profiles and Action Lists, as delivered through Enfocus PitStop Pro 10 software, and support for PDF/X-4 for printing and PDF/A for archiving.
“PitStop Connect 10 is all about streamlining the workflow and strengthening the relationship between printers, publishers and creative professionals,” concludes Cloots. “The solution ensures files print exactly as designed, which helps improve turnaround times, increases productivity and ultimately improves customer satisfaction. Creatives win as well, as they can relax knowing their files are error free and print ready.”
Pricing and availability
PitStop Connect 10 will be available in the second quarter of 2011