Zevrix is known for their Adobe Plugin to preflight InDesign files called InPreflight, similar to the built-in function within the CS4 only version itself (Live Preflighting) which Adobe offers. We call that process more a midflight check, as opposed to a preflight on your native files or artwork. And certainly not a postflight on a PDF or processed document. So it was with interest that we read this about a new automated solution from this software developer for that postflight process:

PDF Checkpoint 1.0 Public Beta ******************************* Zevrix Solutions introduces PDF Checkpoint – a new quality control and automation solution for PDF files. PDF Checkpoint 1.0 is currently in Public Beta stage and offers the following features: - Quickly preflight multiple PDF files – Create preflight profiles to detect common problems – List all PDF fonts, color spaces, images and document properties – Preview  and list resolution of PDF images More features are planned to be added – and It’s your chance to request features required for your PDF workflow: - Routing of PDF files depending on preflight results – Split PDF – Extract PDF images PDF Checkpoint 1.0 Public Beta can be downloaded here: http://zevrix.com/download.php  Read more... (280 words, estimated 1:07 mins reading time)

In response to this detailed post, which was well presented, by Rufus Deuchler, worldwide evangelist for Adobe Creative Solutions:

As the preflight inventors, U.S. Patented holders and with more than 14 years of experience, Markzware is in a unique position with vast resources and experience within the print, publishing and graphic markets.

It is our opinion that Adobe InDesign’s CS4 “Live Preflighting” feature, was a necessary inclusion within the InDesign application, mostly for an ‘insurance’ purpose. That is, whenever documents are created within Adobe InDesign CS and have a problem upon output, then Adobe can point to this feature – In other words; could it be this is more for Adobe Indesign’s printing insurance than that of the designers?

Years ago, Markzware developed an in-flight tool, FlightCheck Studio (originally HawkEye) which received rave reviews. However, in our experience we found designers that use InDesign, seldom use preflight. The reason being, performing ‘mechanical checks’ is not in a graphic designer’s or creative’s DNA. They design and create the best work they can to market and sell products, then as quick as the designer is finished with one project – they are off to the next! Designers and creatives, on average do not have time to preflight. (Or it is this type of attitude, “As a professional designer, I don’t make mistakes.”)  Read more... (673 words, estimated 2:42 mins reading time)