Darwin for InDesign, Quark

is demonstrating a new version of Darwin VI authoring tool that supports Adobe InDesign CS software at Graph Expo in Chicago. Based on the Darwin VI authoring tool, the application enables InDesign users to design, author and manage personalized variable information documents. Darwin is used by designers, advertising agencies and marketing professionals to enhance the value of direct marketing through personalization. The InDesign plugin offers a new Apple Aqua-based user interface and improved workflow, including a robust, standalone database engine that improves performance and flexibility. It will ship in early 2005.

"With InDesign CS and Adobe Creative Suite we combined powerhouse production capabilities with unmatched tools for our customers to express their creativity," said Don Walker, general manager of publishing technologies and services at Adobe Systems. "Variable Data Publishing is a key area of growth for the printing industry and Adobe customers. Now InDesign users can use Darwin to produce personalized multi-channel campaigns quickly and efficiently, and output them reliably."



Running natively on Mac OS X, the Darwin VI authoring tool turns Adobe InDesign documents into variable data documents where every element is dynamic - text, graphics, charts, colors, layouts, backgrounds and even entire pages. The software efficiently handles large databases. As a plug-in to Adobe InDesign CS, Darwin enables users to work in a familiar environment and take advantage of InDesign functionalities. VI users can design their master layout with InDesign and easily embed the variable information with drag-and-drop operations using Darwin to create personalized documents - without leaving the program.



The new Darwin VI authoring tool for InDesign utilizes simple rule-based logic to automate functions without scripting or programming. Output formats include Creo Variable Print Specifications for optimal speed and performance with a Spire color server, PostScript, and Optimized PostScript.



Creo is also demonstrating at Graph Expo the latest version of the Darwin Variable Information tool for QuarkXPress 6.1. Darwin 6.1.1 is a Mac OS X native application that features faster, more efficient variable information production. New automation features include hot folders and web integration, an automatic U.S. zip code delivery point, rich data labeling and others.

by MacNN Staff