The software has undergone a complete architectural rebuild for version 8 of its Server, Signature and Focus products to make it faster and more efficient and the customer service module has been improved to include remote access and support for a wider range of machines.

The system can run on Windows 7 and Mac OSX and uses multi-threading in its RIP Buffering and Hyper RIP features, so that print jobs can be processed by the RIP and sent to print simultaneously.

There is a new Dashboard facility to make switching between modules much faster and an improved GUI should appeal to new users who can quickly get to grips with the software

Additionally a Live Update facility constantly checks for newer versions, profiles and other updates and upgrades with minimal impact on operation.

The system now supports a wider range of printers including the latest HP Latex, Epson, Seiko H2, Mutoh Valuejet and Mimaki machines.

The Server V8 product adds in an HPGL/2 engine for vector and raster file rendering and printing, aimed at large format applications such as architectural designs.

Signature V8 is available for wide format printing in solo or multi-user server versions and boasts improved image management.

For fine art and photographic users, solo and server editions are also available for Focus V4 that include features for printing sophisticated gallery wraps.

Business development director Ramin Shahbazi said: "Many of the improvements we have made across the whole Shiraz V8 suite came from talking to our customers and finding out what they wanted, taking into account the work they are producing and working out how we can make it easier for them."

The products are expected to be available from next year.