This guide will help you understand how to configure and test a complete workflow for flat products, from batching items and setting imposition templates to defining production steps like printing and cutting. You’ll also learn how to send imposed files to an SFTP server and publish your workflow so it can be used in production.
Setting Up the Workflow for Flat Products
Begin by editing a workflow under a flat product model. If you haven’t already created one, you’ll need to do that first.
Batching Items
Batching defines how incoming order items are grouped before moving to production.
Batch Release Options: You can release a batch by:
Time
Date
Count (e.g. release after one item, which we’ll use in this example)
A combination of time and count
Advanced Batch Settings:
Use quantity from the context to control batching based on item quantity.
Define batch criteria using context-based parameters, such as:
client_items_id(e.g. for flat cards by client)spine_size(e.g. for photo books)Any other context attribute relevant to your use case
Once set, switch to test mode to generate context data and proceed with configuration.
Configuring Imposition Templates
Next, add the Imposition Templates activity to define how your items are laid out for production.
You can select values directly from context or hard code them. Example parameters:
Sheet width and height: either hardcoded or from context
Substrate: e.g.
paper_typeFormat: e.g.
paper_sizeDispatch date, size, and count: use context values
URL and quantity: select from the available context data
Bleed: set from context or default to a fixed value (e.g. 0)
Once parameters are set, save the configuration and test again to ensure the imposition is successful. You’ll then be able to preview the imposed file by following the link generated from this step.
Sending Files to SFTP
After successful imposition, it’s time to send the output to an SFTP location for production.
Choose file upload type:
Single file or multiple files
Select the correct URL: Ensure it's the one from the imposition context field.
Define the filename:
Leave blank to use the system-generated name (e.g. starts with
W00)Customize with unique values like order ID (e.g.
flat_product/{id})
You’ll see a preview of the resulting SFTP file path in the right panel. Save parameters and re-run in test mode to validate the setup.
Adding Production Steps
Now, configure the Production steps such as printing and cutting.
Printing Configuration
Set to Sheet Fed
Example setup:
Printer: Indigo 12000
Sheet size: 12x18
Image area (IA): Set as required for that sheet
Cutting Configuration
Use a Guillotine type machine
Example setup:
3DMX, set cut index to 2
The activity index controls the execution order:
Printing (set to 1)
Cutting (set to 2)
Run another test to validate the entire workflow.
Finalizing and Publishing the Workflow
Once all test runs are successful:
Save your workflow
Click Publish to make it live
You’ll see the status change to Live
Important: In the Production Details section under Parts and Attributes, ensure you’ve selected the correct workflow using the workflow config button.
FAQ
Can I hard code all parameters in imposition setup?
Yes, but using context values is recommended for flexibility and automation.
What happens if I don’t assign a custom filename for SFTP uploads?
The system will automatically generate one, typically starting with W00.
What if my workflow doesn’t run successfully in test mode?
Check if all required parameters are filled and ensure context values are properly defined.
Can I reuse this workflow for other product types?
No, workflows are tied to the product model, so you’ll need a separate configuration for other models.
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