Canon has launched Prisma production version 5.0, a fully automated high performance workflow and output management system for commercial, book, direct mail and transactional printing.

The new version features a host of enhancements and expanded workflow management capabilities, including the new InkControl and Print File Enhancer tools, as well as modifications to existing features. While offering flexible usability, the software can also help print service providers (PSPs) to boost efficiency, improve productivity and increase connectivity.

Providing precise and transparent print job calculations, InkControl enables customers to estimate job-specific ink usage before a print run. It uses the powerful rasterising engine in the Océ SRA MP controller, along with data about actual droplet sizes defined in the job setup, to calculate ink consumption estimates prior to printing.

Another new feature, the Print File Enhancer, allows PSPs to enhance and/or modify PDF and AFP files through the use of a Graphical User Interface. Users can create index information, add barcodes, text or images, insert pages, shift content, or sort print files for postal optimisation with just a few clicks of the mouse.

Also new to software is the enhanced Professional Book Module, enabling users to automate digital book production through an efficient batch, barcode, and scanning process. Incoming orders are grouped based on parameters that improve process efficiency, thereby allowing for profitable and automated manufacturing of short run books.

Meanwhile, the improved Professional Document Composer (PDC) operates via a new user interface, which provides an intuitive way of imposing files, resulting in the streamlined production of books and personalised documents. The PDC is fully integrated into PRISMAproduction and controlled by the job ticket. 

For PSPs operating in the graphic arts arena, the software offers a generic JDF/JMF interface to upstream systems as well as dedicated connectors for Agfa Apogee and Fujifilm XMF. The connectors enable an easier link to the corresponding systems, and the specific parameters required by these applications are addressed so that they can be converted to a job ticket for further processing. 

‘With the launch of Prisma production version 5.0, we have raised the bar in terms of output management,’ said Craig Nethercott, commercial print group director. ‘Print service providers now have access to a more robust suite of workflow management capabilities designed to help enhance their creative capabilities while streamlining print shop production management.

‘With increased pressure on costs and turnaround times, the ability to more effectively manage the entire production workflow is critical. Prisma production version 5.0 not only gives print service providers control over their complete range of applications, but also helps maximise flexibility, improve turnaround times and reduce production costs’