What does it do?
DisplayGenie is a 3D design software package for boxes and POS displays. It is based on pre-defined templates and is mainly intended for production on large-format inkjet printers and digital cutting tables.
SAI is a US-based software developer, specialising in RIPs and related production software for large-format printers and CNC routers. DisplayGenie includes components from SAI’s Flexi signage design software, which allows artwork to be added to box and display item templates.
When was it launched and what is the target market?
It was launched at Fespa Digital in March 2016. According to product manager John Blundell it’s intended to be a one-stop solution for printing businesses seeking to extend their range of products. It’s particularly aimed at existing users of large-format flatbed UV inkjets, who may already also have a matching cutter or be intending to install one.
“For a fraction of the price of high-end packages that are typically tied to specific manufacturer’s hardware, DisplayGenie enables large-format print providers to quickly and easily get started with POS display and box creation,” says Blundell. Typically, the actual users will be designers within a printing company, he says.
How does it work?
Blundell says that DisplayGenie is efficient because its all-in-one structure eliminates multiple steps. It can quickly create and apply artwork to the structural design of folding carton, corrugated cardboard and sandwich material POS for free-standing display units.
In basic terms it allows for the creation of digital flat artwork onto items from a library of pre-defined folding carton, POS and display templates. The “hundreds” of box and display templates supplied include items from ECMA (European Carton Makers Association) and FEFCO (the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers). Templates include multiple pieces where relevant, with tools to add features such as extra shelves in standing POS units.
Design features include vector and bitmap tools and include effects such as shadows and gradients, and for the creation of masks, outlines, etc. White, varnish and metallic channels are supported and variable text can be specified. Objects can also be nested for efficient layout on the printer.
Blundell says that users can create their own templates if they wish. “However, we recommend using and modifying existing templates, as the design of a functional package or POS is quite intensive. That said, if a user has the inclination, the tool is quite powerful and can be used to create virtually any type of package or POS display.”
The templates align to 3D CAD models so designs can be applied to these and previewed in 3D. “The integrated graphic and structural design with animated 3D folding preview helps maintain workflow efficiency by catching any mistakes before production,” says Blundell. 3D files can also be exported as PDFs that can be sent to customers for approval.
After approval, the files can be sent to any RIP, not just SAI’s. There are no drivers or hardware-specific features needed.
Were there previous versions?
No, it’s a new product from SAI, although Flexi software is well established and is currently at version 12.
What’s the USP?
According to Blundell: “DisplayGenie lets users create cardboard box and POS displays in seconds, thanks to an easy-to-adjust template library that cuts design time and reduces costly production errors.”
What training and service support is offered?
SAI offers technical support and will answer training questions sent to technical support. There is no formal training on offer, but there are YouTube instructional videos.
What does it cost?
The UK price is £1,595 and it requires a Windows PC to run it on. It’s available via download but so far we don’t know of any UK users.
SPECIFICATIONS
Platform PC running Windows 7 to 10 (16 or 32-bit)
Input file formats Include PDF, AI, EPS, JPEG, TIFF and PNG
Design tools Include raster and vector elements, with support for white, clear and metallic channels
Output file formats Include PDF, AI, PSD, JPG and TIFF
Compatibility Works with any printer RIP or cutting software
Price £1,595
Contact SAI Europe +32 2725 5295 www.thinksai.com
ALTERNATIVES
EngView Display Designer bundle
Bulgarian developer EngView offers a modular CAD/CAM system for design and production of packaging and POS displays. Modules are available individually or in bundles for specific applications. The Display Designer bundle includes a library of about 2,000 items, plus a drafting tool for new item design, live integration with Adobe Illustrator, and a nesting tool.
Platform Windows or Mac OS
Price Depends on customer configurations, but starts at €1,700 (about £1,540)
Contact EngView +359 2976 8312 www.engview.com
Esko Deskpack
Esko has put a lot of the functions of its dedicated high-end package design programs into Deskpack, which is based on special plug-ins for Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Several bundles are offered, with monthly subscriptions.
Platform Windows or Macintosh
Price Advanced pack £126/month plus cost of Adobe CC subscription
Contact Enfocus +32 9 216 9211 www.enfocus.com
Arden Software Impact Designer Essentials
Arden’s closest equivalent to DisplayGenie in price, though it’s somewhat upmarket. It includes a library of parametric templates, 3D drafting tools, snap-together image elements, a design database, and input and output file format support. You need higher end packages to get the most powerful nesting and 3D features. You can buy outright or by a subscription that’s 20%-30% of the price per annum.
Platform Windows
Price £1,900 (Essentials), £3,200 9mid-range Standard)
Contact Arden Software 0161 449 6623 www.ardensoftware.com
