Extensis aims to slash the number of bad files entering the pre-press workflow with its Internet-based pre-flighting software.


It hopes that Preflight Online will encourage designers to use it as part of the file transmission process, while allowing repro houses to tailor the settings to suit their requirements.


"Preflight Online gets pre-flighting done where it should be," said senior product manager Joseph Schorr. "Setting rules happens at the printer and checking happens at the designer."


Based on the firm's Preflight Pro software, Preflight Online is a managed service hosted by Extensis on its server. Designers use a plug-in to their web browser to use the service. Repro houses pay a fee of around 4,000 ($6,000) to set up and customise their interface, and then a 60p-per-file checking charge.


Over 90% of files aren't ready for printing when they leave the creator due to reluctance to use pre-flighting, according to the firm.


London-based Keene Repro is beta testing Preflight Online and is expected to become the first UK user.


Extensis' parent firm ImageX.com has issued a profit warning suggesting it will post a net loss of 9.9m ($14.3m) on revenue of 12.8m for the third quarter.


Story by Barney Cox