Indianapolis InDesign User Group

Meeting Notes Archive

November 6, 2007

Variable Data! OK, so at first it doesn’t sound that exciting, but for those who attended the November meeting of the Indianapolis InDesign User Group, it now has a whole new meaning.

Variable data publishing is a tool to produce one-of-a-kind messages personalized for the recipient. Using a detailed database and InDesign, we can create one file where text and graphics can change to fit the individual who will receive it. The more information in the database, the more personalized the piece can be, and with the advancements in InDesign’s data merge feature, it is easier than ever.

Rob Kluger from Xerox explained how variable data printed pieces are produced digitally and gave many helpful tips on how to design for digital print to ensure the highest quality product. With more and more commercial printers purchasing large capacity digital presses, it is very important that designers adjust their work to fit with this output method. Here is a link to the Xerox Graphics Communications eStore, where you will find excellent resources.

Scott Houck from XMPie dropped by to show us how we can use our database to create not only printed pieces, but also personalized email, web, and mobile messages that can produce real-time reports so you can see the results of a marketing campaign quickly. With XMPie, you can create integrated communications with a Cross Media campaign to produce higher response rates. Users can leverage either InDesign via desktop versions of the XMPie plug-ins or in full server versions with Adobe InDesign Server. Scott demonstrated through XMPie how data and business logic can drive text, graphics, styles, and even visibility of layers within InDesign—giving designers almost unlimited design flexibility when executing campaigns involving personalized messaging to each direct mail recipient. Log on to XMPie for a free 30-day trial.

Thanks to Chrissy Mitchell, who wrote our meeting notes.

Debbie Conway
Indianapolis IDUG Chapter Representative

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