Agfa introduces new version of Arkitex Production workflow for newspaper printers

Agfa announces the introduction of Arkitex Production v4.0 that takes the next step in streamlining and automating newspaper print production workflows. It is designed to save newspaper printers time and money. The latest version focuses on a tighter integration with press management systems for just-in-time plate delivery, and incorporates multi-tenant capabilities as well as improved planning and tracking. Deployment in the cloud guarantees smooth business continuity.

Arkitex Production 4.0 supports multiple tenants on a single server, enabling them to access and benefit from the same software modules (such as RIPs, imposition, ink presets, etc.). Each tenant has its own users and permissions, plate layouts, products, and can only see their publications and templates. This becomes important in view of both local centralization and cloud workflow solutions where multiple sites can share hardware and resources while maintaining data security and workflow control.

As a result of worldwide declining run lengths, consolidating of print sites, and increases in outside jobs, the number of press runs and the frequency of plate exchanges are increasing. Arkitex Production 4.0 can be integrated more tightly with printer’s press management and plate stacking systems, enabling a just-in-time delivery of plates to press. This way, plates can be produced in a shorter timeframe and arrive at the right moment at the right press tower.

The press operator – who in many cases is responsible for both pre-press and press – can manage the entire workflow from one place. This includes automatic optional release of plates as soon as stacker bins for the next press run become available. This increases press efficiency and reduces press idle time. The updated Arkitex Production GUI contains many improvements in planning, status communication, and workflow tracking.