Tools of the Trade: Facilitating Innovation
An Adobe box created using
DLM Solution.
A new design tool not only streamlines the package design and production processes—it also encourages innovation.
by Marie Redding, Senior EditorEsko Graphics’ Design Life-Cycle Management (DLM) Solution is a Web-based package design and production tool engineered to solve common problems that arise when design teams located all over the globe work together. The DLM Solution consists of software and hardware that can be used through the design and production phases. “Health and beauty brand managers can exercise increased control over all phases of the design process through DLM, allowing for efficient management of both in-house and outside vendors,” says Mark Vanover, director of marketing for Esko’s North America operations. This system can also detect and prevent errors, whether in measurements or graphics, which could be costly to correct later on. It also aids in engineering designs and in producing models quickly.
Esko collaborated with Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), Adobe Systems, and Gencia to create this new strategic tool. CSC provides its Product Life-Cycle Management (PLM) development infrastructure. Adobe technology is integrated in order to streamline the process between structural and graphic design. Gencia enables fast turnaround of accurate prototypes.
During a demonstration given to the press in New York City, CPC Packaging’s editors were able to see exactly how easily a box could be designed, edited, changed, and approved by several people in various locations in a few minutes by using the DLM Solution. Three-dimensional photos were generated. Exact specifications were shown on a flat rendering, marking the places where copy, artwork, and a bar code were meant to be. The demonstration was based upon a real box created for the launch of Adobe’s Creative Suite 2. “We had to collaborate with five people located in different parts of the world, including a design agency in San Diego and our converter in India. Within three days, the project was complete,” says Susie Stitzel, CAD product manager for Esko.
DLM Solution’s key components are based around Esko’s Scope workflow products. Components of Scope include several programs such as ArtiosCAD, which is compatible with Adobe Illustrator. “Data can be preserved and shared between Illustrator and ArtiosCAD, which enables graphic designers and structural designers to maintain a smooth and efficient workflow,” says Robin Tobin, senior manager, print industry marketing at Adobe.
Another one of its key components is Gencia, which consists of Gs2 and Creator systems. These programs enable designers to create prototypes in minutes, rather than hours. “These systems deliver high-quality printed-carton prototypes, samples, or a short run,” says Brian Blundell, CEO of Gencia. (Gencia’s clients include P&G and Unilever.) The Gs2 system allows users to digitally print images directly onto the correct material (rather than spray mounting), whether it is paperboard, corrugated, or flexible packaging.
“In addition to being an extremely efficient way to work, perhaps the key benefit of Esko’s DLM Solution is that it provides a collaborative platform across the entire supply chain, which fosters innovation,” says Simon James, executive vice president and general manager for Esko.