Or they can populate a drop-down menu with five different headlines from which Web users can choose. The variable data design templates can be multiple pages long and can have more than 500 variable slots. Once the files are uploaded to the Web server, DesignMerge Web software automatically generates a unique Web form to gather each user's customization information specific to the template. The Web form displays thumbnail images of any variable image content available for that template and drop-down menus also are automatically populated. Distributed users access and customize the document through this Web form and in seconds can view proofs of their variable content documents online as either a JPEG in their web browser or as a PDF file.
Web users have the option of uploading a customer list to be merged with the document.
This list may contain mailing addresses, sales information, or other data. Similarly, users can upload image files rather than selecting from predefined options. Real-time online proofs show customized documents with the uploaded text and images in place. An error report also is available and the software provides Web-based interfaces for administration of templates. It leverages Meadows' expertise in designing unique solutions for QuarkXPress.