In our previous articles, we introduced the Next-Gen Imposition Editor and explored how to create customized templates. Now, let's focus on implementing these templates in real production workflows using Gelato Connect's Workflow Builder.
Understanding Variables in Imposition Templates
One of the most powerful features of the Imposition Editor is the ability to work with dynamic variables. These allow your templates to adapt to different orders automatically without requiring manual adjustments for each job.
Types of Variables
The Imposition Editor supports two primary types of variables:
1. Collection (Batch) Variables
Collection variables are associated with individual print jobs within a batch or order. These values can differ for each print job in a collection.
Examples include:
Design URL (pdf_url)
Quantity
Bleed size
Customer name
Print job ID
When a batch contains multiple print jobs, each job can have its own unique values for these variables.
2. Primitive (Order-Level) Variables
Primitive variables remain consistent across all print jobs within an order. These static values apply to the entire batch.
Examples include:
Sheet dimensions (height and width)
Package ID
Dispatch date
Plate ID
Paper type/substrate
Adding and Managing Variables
To work with variables in your templates:
Click on the "Variables" section in the left panel
Select either "Collection" or "Primitive" tab based on your needs
Click "Add Variable" to create a new variable
Provide a meaningful name that reflects the variable's purpose
Use these variables within your template elements
Pro tip: When naming variables, use descriptive names that will make sense to anyone who might use your template in the future.
Using Variables in Template Elements
Once you've defined variables, you can incorporate them into various elements of your template:
Text elements: Display order information, customer details, etc.
Barcodes: Generate dynamic barcodes based on order IDs
Conditional content: Show or hide elements based on variable values
Layout properties: Adjust dimensions based on product specifications
For example, to display a package ID in a text element:
Add a text element to your layout
In the content field, use the variable syntax:
{{package_id}}When the template is used in production, this will be automatically replaced with the actual package ID
Integrating Templates with the Workflow Builder
After creating and testing your templates in the Imposition Editor, the next step is integrating them into your production workflows.
Adding the Imposition Activity
To implement your template in a workflow:
Open the Workflow Builder in Gelato Connect
Locate your desired workflow (e.g., "Folded Brochures")
Find the "Imposition" activity in the activities panel
Drag and drop it into your workflow sequence at the appropriate position
Selecting and Configuring Templates
Once you've added the Imposition activity to your workflow:
Click on the activity to view its configuration
Select your saved template from the dropdown list
Map the template variables to the corresponding workflow context values
Variable Mapping
This is where the magic happens - connecting your template variables to actual production data:
For each variable in your template, select the appropriate data source from the workflow context
The system will show available context values based on your workflow configuration
These mappings transform static test values into dynamic production values
For example:
Map
pdf_urlto${context.printJob.designUrl}Map
package_idto${context.order.packageId}Map
quantityto${context.printJob.quantity}
Testing Your Integrated Template
Before deploying your template to production, it's crucial to test it thoroughly:
Dry Run Testing
The Workflow Builder allows you to perform a "dry run" to simulate an actual order:
Click the "Test Activity" or "Dry Run" button
The system will generate a preview PDF with actual order data populated
Review this preview carefully to ensure all variables are being replaced correctly
Check that the imposition layout meets your production requirements
Common Issues to Watch For
During testing, pay special attention to:
Variable replacement: Ensure all variables are being populated correctly
Layout integrity: Check that the layout adapts properly to different content
Cut and registration marks: Verify proper positioning for your production equipment
Multiple print jobs: Test with various quantities and job combinations
Best Practices for Production Implementation
Template Organization
Create clear naming conventions for templates
Add detailed descriptions to differentiate similar templates
Organize templates by product type or production method
Variable Management
Document the purpose and expected values for each variable
Use consistent variable names across similar templates
Include validation for critical variables where possible
Workflow Integration
Position the imposition activity appropriately in your workflow sequence
Consider dependencies with other activities (pre-press, proofing, etc.)
Document the entire workflow for training and troubleshooting purposes
Advanced Implementation Techniques
Template Versioning
As your production needs evolve, you may need to update your templates:
Always duplicate existing templates before making significant changes
Maintain version numbers or dates in template names
Test thoroughly before replacing templates in active workflows
Conditional Workflows
For more complex scenarios, consider:
Creating multiple templates for different product variations
Using decision points in your workflow to select the appropriate template
Implementing conditional logic within your templates when possible
Want to learn more?
Check-out [Imposition Engine - GCW] FAQs and Glossary for any questions and further understanding of terminology and concepts related to workflow integration and variable mapping in the Imposition Engine.
Conclusion
The Next-Gen Imposition Editor in Gelato Connect provides a powerful system for creating customized imposition templates and integrating them seamlessly into your production workflows. By mastering variables and workflow integration, you can achieve efficient, consistent, and error-free production processes.
Remember that the key to successful implementation is thorough testing and documentation. Take the time to validate your templates under various scenarios before deploying them to your production environment.
We hope this series has helped you understand how to leverage the full potential of the Imposition Editor in your print operations. For additional support or questions, please contact the Gelato support team.
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