Ricoh has launched a portfolio of software products to enhance productivity for production printing operations by streamlining job workflow and minimising errors. 

TotalFlow software suite, includes TotalFlow Prep 4.0, TotalFlow PrintManager 4.0, TotalFlow Production Manager 4.0 and TotalFlow Path 4.0.

TotalFlow Prep 4.0, offers efficient document preparation including imposition, tabs and finishing and enables operators to create documents, edit and impose. TotalFlow Prep can operate independently or integrate with other TotalFlow production management solutions such as Print Manager and Production Manager.

TotalFlow Print Manager 4.0 and TotalFlow Production Manager 4.0 provide centralised management for digital production print operations. They can automatically schedule and route jobs based on printer capabilities, media type and current workload. Using media catalogue discovery and device synchronisation, media changes are minimised to help drive productivity and cut overall costs and errors, as well as reducing downtime since jobs get to print faster and spend less time in the job queue.

Production Manager 4.0 adds capabilities such as transforms from Postscript or PCL to PDF, printer pooling and an embedded pre-flight function provided by Enfocus Pitstop.

TotalFlow Path 4.0, built on an open workflow platform streamlines the cut sheet production print workflow. It connects software programmes and business applications like web to print and Management Information Systems (MIS), enabling them to communicate with each other during the production process. Using rules-based automation, and a drag and drop interface, clients create and customise linear workflows to meet specific job requirements.

Version 4.0 brings new extensions for EFI Digital Storefront, Ultimate Impostrip, for advanced imposition, and support for the latest continuous feed and cut sheet devices.

'These software solutions will help operations work better, faster and smarter,' states Graham Moore, business development director, Ricoh Europe. 'With print operations required to produce increasing numbers of fast turnaround jobs, in a range of run lengths and using varying print technologies, ensuring that the workflow remains uninterrupted and error-free is essential to profitability. These solutions seamlessly manage day-to-day issues automatically, efficiently and with as few human touch points as possible.'