This guide will walk you through how to set up a complete workflow for a softcover photobook with multiple parts – specifically the inner pages and the softcover. You’ll learn how to configure batching, imposition templates, print and cut steps, as well as how to send files to SFTP and finalize the process with binding. Whether you're handling orders manually or testing in dry run mode, this article breaks it all down for you.
Creating a Multi-Part Workflow for a Softcover Photobook
To begin, navigate to your Workflow Configurations and select Add a Workflow. You’ll typically see the two expected parts pre-selected – Softcover and Inner. However, you can deselect one if needed.
The workflow starts by defining attributes that trigger the correct path when the incoming order contains a photobook. You can select specific values to narrow down the matching logic for your product variant.
Setting Up Pre-Production and Splitting into Parts
After naming your workflow and confirming the structure, open Workflow Settings to access the pre-production steps. This is where the process begins:
Drag in your batching activity as the first step.
Choose the attributes for batching. For photobooks, it's common to batch by quantity of one.
Once batched, the order will automatically split into two parts: Softcover and Inner.
Assigning Imposition Templates
Each part needs a defined imposition template:
For the Softcover:
Select the correct template for photobook covers from the Imposition Templates page.
Make sure to assign the correct Part ID and validate attributes like width, height, and paper type.
Even if the UI label says "cover substrate," confirm the substrate is for the correct part.
For the Inner Pages:
Follow the same process, selecting the dedicated imposition template for inner pages.
Check context data for correct Part ID and paper substrate.
Be aware that some labels in the UI may be outdated; rely on the actual attribute values.
💡 Before proceeding, use an existing order in your system to test the configuration. This allows you to verify whether the setup matches expected results.
Sending Files to SFTP
Once the impositions are successful:
Add a Send to SFTP step for both the Softcover and Inner parts.
Choose to upload as a single file.
Use the output from the Imposition Activity as the file to upload.
Use the Part ID in the filename to ensure each part is uniquely labeled.
Specify the target SFTP folder. If you don’t set a subfolder path, files will upload to the root.
⚠️ In test mode (dry run), Plate IDs will not be generated. However, for real orders, always ensure the plate ID is used for tracking and production.
Adding Print and Cut Steps
Before the final binding:
Add Print steps for both the cover and inner pages.
Choose appropriate print specs, such as sheet-fed on 13x19 paper.
Add Cut steps for both parts to prepare them for merging.
Note: For hardcovers, you may need to include additional steps like mounting or case-making. In this softcover example, these steps are skipped.
Merging and Binding
To complete the workflow:
Add a Merge step to bring the Softcover and Inner parts together.
Finalize with a Binding step. Choose perfect binding and configure any optional parameters, including which parts are being bound.
✅ After adding all production steps, run another test to confirm everything works correctly. Once successful, your workflow is ready to handle live photobook orders.
Determining Inner Page Count and Pricing for Additional Pages
When invoicing for photobooks with variable inner page counts, follow these steps:
Extract Inner Page Count:
The number of inner pages is typically extracted automatically from the PDF file for the inner part during order intake. Most systems will display this as a variable (e.g.,file1_page_count). If not automated, ensure the page count is captured as an order attribute.Set Base and Additional Page Pricing:
Define a base price that includes a set number of inner pages (e.g., 28 pages). For any pages above this base, apply an additional charge per extra page.Pricing Formula Example:
Additional Pages = Total Inner Pages - Included Pages in Base Price Additional Cost = Additional Pages × Price per Additional Page Total Price = Base Price + Additional CostFor example, if the base price covers 28 pages and the book has 40 inner pages, charge for 12 extra pages.
Automate in Workflow:
Configure your invoicing or order management system to use the extracted inner page count and apply the pricing logic automatically for each order.
FAQ
What happens if my test run fails?
Make sure all imposition templates are properly assigned and all Part IDs match the order context. Check that your file paths and names are correctly defined.
Can I use this for hardcover photobooks?
This setup is tailored for softcovers. For hardcovers, additional steps like mounting and casing would need to be included.
Do I need to configure SFTP for each part separately?
Yes, each part needs its own SFTP configuration step to ensure files are correctly labeled and uploaded.
Why is the plate ID missing in my test?
Plate IDs are not created in dry run mode. This is expected behavior.