Technology and structure of printQ - an overview

Web to Print as easy as possible, based on the latest technical developments – this sums up the idea behind printQ, CloudLab‘s eCommerce-solution for print shops, in one sentence.

printQ is an extension for the open source eCommerce-system Magento, which does not only provide additional features, but also enhances the standard functions of Magento. Still the system can be updated at any time. Online print shops and their own products with all configuration options are easily created in a few simple steps. printQ relies on latest technologies for an easy and logical usability on all end devices and an open and flexible architecture. Based on the world‘s leading eCommerce-system Magento with its more than 200,000 installations, the software is automated from beginning to production, for as many projects as required. Magento guarantees highest stability and performance along with full extensibility and flexibility of the system. The program core uses the scripting language PHP, which stands out for its clear programming and structure and the easy maintenance.

Thus, highest stability and performance are guaranteed even at a high visitor rate.

Throughout the development of printQ, the focus was on three main aspects:

1. The use of the software is easy and intuitive (usability).

2. The software is modern and attractive in its appearance (responsive design).

3. It enables print shops to fully automate their processes (workflow).

To better understand our software, you can divide it into four main components.

The personalization provides users with various editors: On the product (OTP)-, form-, PDF/VT- as well as a free editor. Furthermore, there are high quality previews (3D-/live preview, 3D instant preview, page flip).

The calculation unit offers price (fixed, calculation and combined) and weight calculations.

The print settings contain all tools needed for the configuration of print products, like components, selection and deny lists and the release process.

In delivery, all tasks relevant for production are bundled: Creation of job sheets, JDF/ XMLtransfer, hot folder, transfer of PDF-files ready to print to production, calculation of delivery date (taking into consideration company holidays as well as public holidays, customer notifications and the like).

WEB TO PRINT IN ECOMMERCESYSTEM MAGENTO

printQ is a modular cloud-software, with a program core that is clearly separated from the functionalities. Thus, it is always possible to extend the functional range by integrating new modules. This ‘mass customization print architecture’ (MCPA) of printQ, Magento and PHP offers maximum flexibility and scalability to suit even the most complex needs.

WEB TO PRINT PRODUCTION WORKFLOW

printQ processes all open and closed shop orders and displays them clearly in the order book. Numerous filtering options provide optimum overview. Orders can be sorted by store status, date of production or shipping or various other criteria. printQ is able to send all necessary information fully automated to, for example, an accounting software, workflow systems or, for single repeats, straight to the printing press.

Print data, job folders and dispatch notes are created and integrated into the production work fl ow after every order. If desired, printQ can also issue standard compliant JDF-files for every printing order. Additionally, with FTP print data, job folders and dispatch notes can be automatically placed onto servers.