What does it do?
Cloudflow is a modular workflow automation server from Belgium-based Hybrid Software. It runs within a single server and can be adapted to run many tasks, but in practise it’s primarily used in packaging or labelling pre-press workflows with PDF automation, colour separation, trapping, screening, proofing, approvals plate layout and other functions. It can integrate with Hybrid’s other main products, Packz (a PDF pre-press editor for packaging content and CAD files) and Stepz (PDF editing for variable data printing, step and repeat, print optimisation).
Hybrid Software is part of the Hybrid Software Group. Cloudflow links to some of the other group companies’ pre-press products, including Global Graphics’ Harlequin RIP, ColorLogic’s colour management software and the new acquisition Creative Edge’s iC3D 3D pack design and rendering software.
When was it introduced and who is it aimed at?
Cloudflow was originally introduced at LabelExpo 2011 in Brussels. Target users work in graphics, print or IT, says Thomas Elton, Hybrid’s Cloudflow product manager. In practise most are pre-press and production suppliers working in the packaging and labelling sectors. There are currently 1,150 Cloudflow installations worldwide.
How does it work?
Despite the name, Cloudflow doesn’t always operate completely in the cloud (using AWS, Google Cloud or for China, Alibaba). It can run on local servers if the users wish, with a choice of Windows, Mac or Linux, the latter being 50% cheaper to host than Windows and supporting big clusters such as needed for RIPs. However, the operators’ user access is always through standard web browsers, with no need for special add-ons or plug-ins. A managed SaaS offering is in beta.
The core of any Cloudflow setup is Workspace, a central database for all applications. This handles file and asset management, with automatic indexing and metadata generation, user management and permissions. It also includes the workflow engine, which supports user-specified sequences and paths.
Optional modules can be added. Proofscope is for soft proofing and collaboration, with annotation, tools for ink densities, distances and angles. It supports native PDF, screened TIFF, LEN and other image formats.
Packzflow is an automated version of Packz, for pre-press functions, such as pre-flight and correction, separations, barcodes, colour transformations, trapping and flattening. There is advanced step & repeat for labels, flexible packaging, folding cartons, spiral wraps, etc, as well as variable data processing.
The RIP module is based on Harlequin technology and offers AM, FM and hybrid screening (plus optional HXM hybrid), with a fast, multi-threaded host renderer.
Job management presents information in a graphical user interface, with automatic creation of job-related folders, search and access to files in existing jobs.
Cockpit is for process management of labels and folding cartons. It can be driven by ERP/MIS links and has templates for file management, approval, correction cycles, prepress, and step & repeat.
3D is the integration of IC3D for high-resolution generation of 3D previews based on 3D models and PDF graphics.
Tectonics is the plate layout module for flexo plates, compatible with most platesetters.
DataLink connectivity and data collection supports MIS/ERP and other data sources, with generation and reading of XML or JDF and is compatible with all SQL databases.
There is a free app store called Mars, that contains a large selection of presets such as pre-flight checks and workflows, saving a lot of time for users. Mars is being redesigned to be easier to use, with a release scheduled for June.
Some of the modules can be linked to third-party systems, especially ERP/MIS but also other workflows. The most efficient links are directly though APIs, says Elton, and there are 900 API calls available to developers.
What is the USP?
“Hybrid is against proprietary formats and locked-in systems,” says Elton. “We have open systems and use standard file formats such as PDF, TIFF, XML and CSV. Most customers have existing systems, such as Esko or Kodak and we can work with them. We are compatible with any CTP environment.”
What training and support is offered?
Support is through “lots of different channels,” says Elton, including helplines, or ticketed queries and responses. There are built-in manuals and instructions.
Training and support can be provided on-site if needed, though remote training has been necessary because of Covid.
Pricing models
Cloudflow and other Hybrid software is available as either perpetual licences or subscriptions. Subscriptions can be monthly or yearly. The basic perpetual licence covers up to 25 users logged on concurrently, with the option of infinite licensing for unlimited numbers across multiple sites. Elton says “a setup can range starting at £15,000 for a ‘simpler’ workflow automation system all the way up to £100,000 for a fully specced approval/workflow/bespoke portal/RIP/plate layout/job management system.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Platforms Local or in-house server running on Windows, MacOS or Linux; or remotely hosted cloud servers
Core module Workspace database and workflow engine
Optional modules Proofscope, Packzflow, Rip, Job Management, Datalink, Cockpit, Share, 3D, Tectonics
Price Monthly or yearly subscriptions available, or perpetual licence starting at around £15,000
Contact Hybrid Software 07961 446990 www.hybridsoftware.com
ALTERNATIVES
Esko Automation Engine
Automation Engine is Esko’s main workflow management suite, with job management, previewing and approvals, step & repeat, colour conversions, platemaking, etc. March saw the latest release with improved colour pre-flight.
Price From about £10,000 to £40,000 DOC
Contact Esko +32 9 216 90 21 www.esko.com
Enfocus Switch
Switch has modules for internal processing, plus direct links to a range of third-party (or Enfocus) software. Links, functions and preset workflows are available through the Enfocus app store.
Price from £3,500 to £18,000 DOC
Contact Enfocus +32 9 216 98 01 www.enfocus.com
AG/CAD Kasemake
The UK developed Kasemake is primarily a 3D CAD package for folding carton design. However it has optional job management modules: Business Systems Link for integration with MIS; and Scheduler for job sequencing.
Contact AG/CAD 01606 863344 www.kasemake.com
