Describe your business
We are a packaging pre-press company specialising in high-end graphics, project management, colour management and digital flexo plates. We produce all types of graphics from cartons and flexibles through to large-format corrugated. Our main clients are brand owners and printers.
What does the software do?
Automation Engine 10 automates repetitive tasks — anything that we can automate goes through the system. These tasks include pre-flight and normalising files, exporting PDFs, step and repeat and ripping. It plays a big role in our business.
Why did you choose this particular software?
Our relationship with EskoArtwork goes back many years. We already use BackStage and this has evolved into Automation Engine 10. It was a natural progression for us.
Did you look at any other similar software?
We always investigate what other systems are available in the market. I believe it is one of the most advanced workflow products out there.
What features do you particularly like?
It gives you the ability to make intelligent workflows and reduce your workflow tickets, reduce operator input and streamline your production. EskoArtwork had a very good system with BackStage but Automation Engine 10 takes it to a new level.
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t?
There is always room for improvement but nothing really jumps out.
How fast is it?
We are still learning the new possibilities and we’ve only had it for the past three months. It is a powerful system and we can already see the benefits.
How easy is it to use?
It is straightforward and we did not need any in-depth training. It’s easier to use without a doubt and I think new users would pick it up quickly.
How much time or money has it saved?
We have some way to go before I can commit to any figures. We are looking forward to seeing exactly how many more tasks we can automate.
Has it won you any new work?
Because we already have an EskoArtwork workflow it hasn’t won us new business yet but for a new user to digital workflows and automation I am sure it would.
Would you say that it offers value for money?
Very much so — it is very slick.
Were any difficulties experienced during the installation, or after?
Because we are an alpha/beta tester we experienced some niggles during installation as you would expect but these were quickly solved.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
EskoArtwork has offered excellent support. Sometimes new technology can pose problems but that hasn’t been the case in this instance.
Who do you think the software is right for?
We specialise in graphic origination but it could be used by book publishers, digital asset management companies or someone who needs to automate graphic tasks. It has a wide range of uses but, if you are in packaging, it is certainly worth considering.
Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed 5/5
Quality 4/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 4/5
Supplier’s response
Paul Bates, EskoArtwork’s regional business manager for the UK and Ireland, says: EskoArtwork Automation Engine 10 is the most exciting and most important product release from EskoArtwork since the release of DeskPack in 2002. The roll-out of Automation Engine 10 to our existing BackStage and Nexus customers has started. They are keen to automate more of their work than they ever could before. The product is at the heart of EskoArtwork software solutions, moving forward, whether it’s packaging, commercial print or sign and display.
Price £10,000-£50,000
Contact EskoArtwork 01527 585805
