Vio has entered into an alliance with Xerox that will bring together Vio customers with Xerox users currently connected to its Equant-supplied global network. As part of the deal Vio will create an online directory of Xerox digital printing sites.

Miranda Clegg, Vio's managing director, said the alliance was a further step towards creating a global community for the graphics arts industry. Networked Xerox users will be able to directly access the Vio service backbone.

The company has also sign a worldwide deal with ISP PSINet which Vio claims will help provide the graphic arts market with a production level of services.

Vio's extended set of services, including the M-cast digital asset management tool and RenderProof for online remote soft proofing, are being combined in a new user interface that will roll out over the summer. The interface, which has been designed to provide a more user-friendly negotiation around Vio's options, will also be faster, claimed Clegg.

Vio is currently trialling an advertising campaign management tool that will "address the issues surrounding 'version management'", said a company spokeswoman. "It will make all the elements of an ad campaign available online thereby enabling global brand management across all media."

Drupa has also seen new customers sign up for Vio's services. According to Clegg "personal recommendation and word of mouth" has brought in new business from around the globe including companies in Japan, Australia, France, Germany and the UK. Details of the deals will be made available after the show.