Version 5.7 of publishing solution SoftCare K4 is now available. The new release of the high-performance editorial system includes several comprehensive enhancements that can help publishers boost productivity using Adobe InDesign and InCopy. Among these features are a new scripting interface for automating customer-specific processes, and the optional K4 Web Editor 2.0, which allows users to write and edit articles to fit in a Web browser and offers more flexibility in including the staff in the work processes.
A major improvement in Version 5.7 enables functions specific to the K4 system to be accessed automatically through scripts (JavaScript, AppleScript or Visual Basic), improving speed and productivity by allowing users to automate certain tasks within the editorial workflow. “We concentrate our development on creating an open editorial system that can be integrated and adjusted quickly in order to suit the customer’s processes without any problems. The new scripting functionality underlines this approach. SoftCare K4 can therefore noticeably increase comfort and efficiency of our users”, says Andreas Schrader, Managing Director of SoftCare.
K4 Web Editor and Other User-friendly Improvements
K4 Web Editor 2.0 lets users write, edit and copyfit Adobe InCopy articles in K4 from any computer with nothing more than a Web browser and an Internet connection. Articles checked out with K4 Web Editor are locked in the database; check-in from Web Editor unlocks the file and updates the database. With enhanced security mechanisms, high scalability and detailed functionalities, the K4 Web Editor 2.0 perfectly fits into the K4 environment. Accurate representations of K4 articles, complete with styling, font mapping and layout geometry, are generated by Adobe InDesign Server and made available via a password-protected browser interface. It also allows users to work offline for even more flexibility in the production process.
Other improvements designed to increase user comfort with SoftCare K4 include the new easy query mode which allows quick searching for document names, and improved accessibility with larger fonts in the job lists. Easy query mode allows users to search for objects without defining a query, simply by searching for object name, issue, section or status, or a combination of these properties. The easy query mode can be used to search for layouts, articles, pictures, advertisements and other K4 objects. All results are updated automatically.
SoftCare K4 version 5.7 is available from K4 System Integrators worldwide. Customers using K4 version 5.0 or higher with valid maintenance agreements are eligible for a free upgrade. The K4 Web Editor is available for purchase as an option for K4 5.6 and 5.7 installations. K4 supports Mac OS X and Windows clients in mixed-platform environments. The server software is available for Mac OS X, Windows, Sun Solaris and Linux.
About SoftCare
SoftCare was founded in 1990 and is a leading developer of workflow solutions for the publishing industry, helping magazine, newspaper and book publishers work more efficiently. The efficient, integrated publishing solution SoftCare K4 combines efficient working process with verifiable time and cost benefits for users and is now regarded as a standard product within the industry. The SoftCare K2 workgroup system provides an excellent base product for people entering the world of professional publishing. The system is ideal for small workgroups that want to combine creative know-how with efficient processes. Simple and secure use as well as flexibility and stability represent decisive benefits for the user. SoftCare K4 has been successfully implemented at sites ranging from 10 to more than 1,000 users. Both solutions support Mac OS X and Windows clients in mixed-platform environments, as well as all current server platforms. SoftCare teams up with trained System Integrators to ensure high-quality service and support for the system on a local level. Additional information can be found at www.softcare.de.
This article was last modified on January 10, 2022
This article was first published on January 25, 2007
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