Case Study: APS QuickLayout

Short form

A reinvention of an obsolete DOS tool that lays out newspaper editions automatically, and the point of difference that let APS hold its prices while competitors gave theirs away.

The challenge

Laying out an edition around the shape and colour requirements of booked adverts was slow, technical work, and the tool that did it was an obsolete DOS product. APS needed to turn that into a modern capability its customers could rely on.

What we built

QuickLayout was APS's first product: a reinvention of the old DOS tool that lays out an edition of a newspaper based on the shape and colour requirements of the adverts booked. It gives operators clear visual markers, so they know when there is a problem, what the problem is, and in many cases it helps them decide on the right solution.

The outcome

The savings it delivered to customers created a substantial point of difference. APS could hold its prices even when competitors gave their version away for free to sell the rest of their suite. From this single concept APS went on to build the Optima suite that touches every aspect of the newsprint operation. One strong product, proven first, made the rest possible.

Related

Suggested image

An operator at a layout screen on a Melbourne pre-press floor, catching a flagged advert placement, printed pages spread beside the keyboard. Warm light, real setting, no lightbulbs or gears.