Microsoft Word - VDP - Variable Data Printing.docx

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7/31/2018

VDP: Variable Data Printing

Variable Data Printing (VDP) is a great tool for customization of printed materials. This process allows

designated fields (name, address, etc…) within a document to be filled in with pre-determined values

from a created list (.csv, excel spreadsheet).

VDP can be achieved in several ways. Please view the tutorials on variable data creation below from a

few common software programs, and how to best use with a fiery.

Create the Variable Document in a Software Program before Printing:

1. Creating in InDesign:

• Guide: https://helpx.adobe.com/indesign/using/data-merge.html

• Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNXrofCKh-A

• Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1nUbkPoIcg

2. Creating in Illustrator:

• Class: https://www.lynda.com/Illustrator-tutorials/Welcome/450909/489328-4.html

• Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81x3SI1Q9wU

3. Creating in Word:

• Guide & Video: https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Mail-merge-using-an-Excel-spreadsheet-

858c7d7f-5cc0-4ba1-9a7b-0a948fa3d7d3

• Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vV1u7O42yZ8

4. Creating in Publisher:

• Guide:https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Create-a-mail-merge-d06aaf48-9d55-4420-a138-

fe581aac344a

• Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82vWhDgYTu0

• Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1zPH3vJ82o

Merge files within the Fiery:

1. Fiery VDP Solutions:

• http://www.efi.com/products/fiery-servers-and-software/fiery-workflow-suite/fiery-variable-data-

printing-solutions/overview/

• Go to the “resources” tab for guides & videos.

2. Fiery eLearning - VDP:

• https://learning.efi.com/course/fiery-variable-data-printing-solutions

• Online course with video and guide.

3. ABC’s of VDP:

• http://www.efi.com/library/efi/documents/327/efi_fiery_abc_vdp_wp_en_us.pdf

• User guide.

Use a Software Program created for Variable Data Printing:

There are several different software programs (XMPie, FusionPro, Printshop Mail, etc…) for creating variable data

documents. Many of these manufacturers create their own tutorial and troubleshooting resources. If needing help

with setup from one of these programs, our training team will be happy to assist, but may not be familiar with the

specific software in your office.