OneVision adds XML converter

OneVision has released an updated version of its workflow management system, Workspace Pro X, with a new XML converter that should allow for easier integration with web-to-print and MIS software as well as production devices.

OneVision has developed this XML converter for its Workspace Pro X automated workflow software.

There are actually two new modules. One of these, Read Properties, takes XML information from web to print and MIS software such as colour, format, order number, delivery date, quantity and substrates, and then automatically populates properties in the Workspace Pro X workflow without requiring any further programming. 

The second module, Write Properties, takes information back from the workflow, and converts it to XML to report the production status back to the MIS. The same information can also be output to production systems such as printing, finishing and embellishment machines.

Workspace is an XML application but as Juergen Gschloessl, OneVision’s manager for training and communication, explains: “Different sources have different structure and names. This makes it difficult to automate XML conversion so usually you need a technician to do some scripting to connect the XML with your workflow. We thought there must be an easier way.”

Workspace Pro X itself sits on a server and typically takes files in from an MIS or Web to Print application and then automatically corrects those files before passing them to the RIP. So in this case, users copy the XML from their inputting application, usually the Web to Print software, into the Read module. This picks up the values that need to be changed, and offers suitable options. This can then be used to set up a rule to convert some elements such as the material from the structure and name used by, for example, your web to print software of choice, into a form that Workspace understands. But you should only have to do this once for each software that sends files into your system, since each software will use the same structure and naming convention for every file it submits. In this way users can define their own list of custom properties to route, collect or rename files. The system then runs automatically from the rules that you’ve created with no need to call in any outside consultants. 

This is an important point because although most software currently used throughout the printing industry is extremely flexible, there is usually a hidden cost in consultancy fees to write bespoke connectors to help data flow from one vendor’s program to another vendor’s. This is inevitable because each vendor differentiates themselves with their own unique approach though it still creates an extra cost that printers have to deal with.

This solution is very much in line with the general approach behind Workspace, which offers a very clean visual interface. Users simply drag icons from a list of processes on the left of the screen into the main window to create the workflows they need. OneVision supplies a basic copy of Workspace with all of its different application software, but only the standalone Pro X version can make use of this XML converter. You can find more details from onevision.com.


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Comments

One response to “OneVision adds XML converter”

  1. Juergen Gschloessl avatar

    Good summary, and very good to talk with you.

    I really think that this xml converter is a great thing as it gives customers the option to connect our workflow automation with any platform, database, webshop etc that they might have in a very easy-to-use way.
    But what am I saying, it’s all in your text.

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