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Gradual Software Introduces PowerSWITCH Top-of-the-Line Automation SoftwareSeptember 12, 2006; 02:45 AM
Customization through full scripting support In many publishing environments, standard workflow tools may not always be suitable. Scripting can provide more intelligent automation by extending file processing based on metadata (or descriptive information about an object or resource) that is increasingly stored with documents. With PowerSWITCH, users can create custom tools to control third-party applications that are not supported out of the box, to integrate with a Digital Asset Management (DAM) or MIS system, or to interact with third-party proprietary solutions. PowerSWITCH supports JavaScript (on Mac OS and Microsoft Windows platforms), AppleScript (on Mac OS) and Visual Basic Scripting (on Windows). Using the scripting features of PowerSWITCH, tasks can be easily implemented that were not programmed in the third-party software. To assist users, PowerSWITCH publishes an extensive API to all three supported scripting languages. This exposes elements of PowerSWITCH functionality to the script(s) and also encapsulates common tasks, making it much easier to write scripts. Gradual's website contains an extensive library of sample scripts. PowerSWITCH provides tools to read incoming metadata in the most commonly used formats including XML, Adobe XMP and JDF. The contents of metadata fields can be used to make routing decisions or to set processing parameters for automated tasks, allowing users to establish intelligent processing flows. Once metadata has been associated with a job it is referenced from the associated job ticket, and is thus accessible wherever that job moves in a flow. Bringing a workgroup closer together with SWITCHclient To provide an even greater degree of workflow automation, PowerSWITCH includes a workgroup client called SWITCHclient. This advanced tool allows anyone on the local network to submit jobs, track their progress, and to intervene when jobs are being held for inspection - directly from their own workstation. This standalone application (not a web-based client) can be installed on workstations throughout the workgroup, with access settings for users and groups configured in PowerSWITCH. The workflow administrator can determine specific access rights and monitor the flow of all jobs. PowerSWITCH activity logs can also be accessed through the workgroup client. PowerSWITCH features a new "submit point" flow element, which allows SWITCHclient users to indicate where in a particular flow jobs can be submitted. Submit points can be set up so that metadata can or must be entered before a job can be submitted. This ensures that jobs are submitted by the right people (those who have sufficient access rights to use a submit point), at the right place in the flow (only to submit points), and include the right metadata (according to the requirements set up in the submit point). Passing the checkpoint No matter how automated a flow is, sometimes it's necessary to intervene and take control. One example is performing a visual check of a job before it is sent off to the next step in the workflow. Another may be jobs that have failed a process (creation of PDF, preflight, etc.) and need to be reviewed by a specialist. PowerSWITCH features a "checkpoint" tool for these situations. This checkpoint can be included in a flow like any regular flow element, whereby all files reaching that point are paused. A user with the correct access rights then needs to log in using SWITCHclient to make a decision on how the job is to be released to the rest of the flow. The objective is to further automate the process, while at the same time facilitating human intervention when needed and appropriate. Quick Return on Investment Gradual PowerSWITCH enables smooth implementation of fully automated workflows, resulting in immediate time and cost savings. Initial installations have indicated a full ROI of the purchase price after just a few months of implementation. In addition, the ability of workgroup members to submit jobs using SWITCHclient and more easily see which of those jobs create issues or interruptions (and correct them) is a huge timesaver in an automated workflow. PowerSWITCH is available for immediate purchase for 5000 Euro and can be downloaded from http://www.gradual.com. PowerSWITCH includes 5 SWITCHclient licenses; extra client licenses are available for 100 Euro. About Gradual Software Gradual Software was established in November 2004 to develop and deliver software for full automation across the numerous stages of professional publishing. Gradual's automation solutions are designed to benefit all participants in the publishing workflow, including content originators (authors and designers), content processors (editors, designers and layout artists), brand owners (publishers and marketing departments) and service providers (printers). Gradual offers the SWITCH family of workflow automation software consisting of three modules: LightSWITCH, an entry-level tool for automation of file reception through FTP; FullSWITCH, a mid-range product that adds configurators to allow third-party applications to be integrated seamlessly in the workflow; and PowerSWITCH, the top-of-the-line package offering extensive scripting and metadata tools to build smart workflows, together with a bundled workgroup client. Gradual Software is privately held by its management team, and is located in Ghent, Belgium. For more information, please visit http://www.gradual.com . Source: Gradual Software |
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