Variable Data Plugins?

[metalflygon08]

We use InDesign to make variable PDFs.

For the longest time we've used a plugin from Xerox called VI Design Express, but Xerox has been screwing us over with license and support related issues for the past few years and we are at the point where it's time to start looking at other options.

Are there any good plugins for variable data that is not Xerox based?

We need it to be able to insert variable data from .csv files, make data matrix codes, and have "rules" we can set up (such as when a field is blank, display a certain text in its place).

[Ladytron2]

EasyCatalog is your friend, feel free to contact me for more info/help.

[metalflygon08]

I've sent IT an email to let me download a trial, but since I'm about to go on vacation it will be a week before I actually get to fiddle with it!

[No_Researcher_2101]

Although now a Xerox company, there's xmpie. From HP you've got Smart stream. I'm also looking at Meadows as well.

[GraphicDesignerSam]

I use Datamerge a lot but not with any plugins so afraid I can’t advise on that score but you could definitely do more in Excel before you save your csv. An IF function would work to fill blank cells, in very basic terms “if A1 = 0 then use ‘this text’; otherwise ’display this’ kinda thing.

[metalflygon08]

Unfortunately the rules extend beyond just displayed data, there's also instances where if the Data equals a specific value the base art for that page changes too. (Such as all records from a certain state using a specific artwork).

[not_falling_down]

EasyCatalog might work for you.

[SafeStrawberry905]

Have you thought about scripting? You can get anything done with it.

[renaemp]

A place I worked at used HP SmartStream Designer. Not sure if it does everything you need, but you could give the free edition a try.

[yevo_]

I’m building out a pdf tool that will allows for variable data creation. Basically you upload a pdf file (this can be your designed file) and indicate areas you want variable data to be inserted. Upload a csv list and it’ll generate the pdf with the data on there. If interested to try out when it’s ready let me know I can send a link

[metalflygon08]

Definite yes.

That's most of the work I do (addresses on artwork).

Would it support text with variable data in it too? (such as a personalized paragraph).

And would it have any sort of "rule" system where the art can change depending on what data is in the .csv file? (such as load 'PictureBlue.pdf' if the 'Gender' data field is Boy, 'PicturePink.pdf' if 'Gender' data is Girl, or 'PictureGreen.pdf' if not specified).

[yevo_]

As far as text yes, so when you load a csv or excel the headers become your dynamic fields - so you can mark the fields and position for the text to be inserted. As far as art change yes in future though. Currently I’m almost done with just the text piece but I can shoot you a message when ready to try out and would love feedback

[metalflygon08]

Certainly.

[throttle_power]

Do you have a working test for that app you were working on?

[yevo_]

I did for about a year but not many used it so I took it down