Creo Demonstrates Darwin Variable Information Authoring Tool for Adobe InDesign CS at Graph Expo

Business Wire, Oct 10, 2004

CHICAGO -- Creo Inc. (NASDAQ:CREO) (TSX:CRE) is demonstrating a new version of Darwin VI authoring tool that supports the growing demand for Adobe InDesign(R) CS software. Based on the powerful Darwin(TM) VI authoring tool, this application enables InDesign users to design, author and manage personalized variable information documents. Darwin is widely used by designers, advertising agencies and marketing professionals in many industries to enhance the value of direct marketing through personalization.

"With InDesign CS and Adobe Creative Suite we combined powerhouse production capabilities with unmatched tools for our customers to express their creativity," said Don Walker, general manager of publishing technologies and services at Adobe Systems. "Variable Data Publishing is a key area of growth for the printing industry and Adobe customers. Now InDesign users can use Darwin to produce personalized multi-channel campaigns quickly and efficiently, and output them reliably."

Running natively on Mac OS(R) X, the Darwin VI authoring tool turns Adobe InDesign documents into variable data documents where every element is dynamic - text, graphics, charts, colors, layouts, backgrounds and even entire pages. The software efficiently handles large databases which is ideal for targeted marketing and promotional campaigns. Intuitive and easy-to-learn, the Darwin VI authoring tool offers a new Apple Aqua(R)-based user interface and improved workflow, including a robust, standalone database engine that improves performance and flexibility.

As a plug-in to Adobe InDesign CS, Darwin enables users to work in a familiar environment and take advantage of InDesign functionalities. VI users can design their master layout with InDesign and easily embed the variable information with drag-and-drop operations using Darwin to create personalized documents - without leaving the program.

The new Darwin VI authoring tool for InDesign software is an affordable solution for efficient production of full-color VI documents. Using simple rule-based logic, functions can be automated without scripting or programming. Output formats include Creo Variable Print Specifications for optimal speed and performance with a Spire(TM) color server, PostScript(R), and Optimized PostScript.

The Darwin VI authoring tool for InDesign users will be available in early 2005.

New! Automate VI Workflow with Darwin 6.1.1

Creo is also demonstrating at Graph Expo the latest version of the Darwin Variable Information tool for QuarkXPress(R) 6.1 users. Darwin 6.1.1 is a Mac OS X native application that features faster, more efficient variable information production. New automation features include hot folders and web integration, an automatic U.S. zip code delivery point, rich data labeling and others.

Optimize Variable Information Production on the PC

Creo is also demonstrating the recently announced VI Toolbox, a Windows(R)-based software solution for creating entry-level variable-information jobs. VI Toolbox is affordable, flexible, and easy to use for streamlining the creation of personalized direct mail, letters and customized collateral with commonly used applications.

VI Toolbox includes three separate applications, each with distinct functionality to maximize VI production workflow. They support VI for pre-printed offset shells, proofing and archiving of VI files, and optimize Microsoft Word mail merge for VI jobs with an unlimited number of records.

Additional product information and demonstration versions of the Darwin 6.1.1 and VI Toolbox applications are available at www.creo.com/darwin and www.creo.com/vitoolbox. See live demonstrations of all of Creo's variable information products at booth # 4006 at Graph Expo 2004, North America's largest trade show for the printing and graphic arts industries, in Chicago, IL, October 10-13, 2004. These products are available through Creo and Xerox sales channels. For information about the other products Creo is demonstrating at Graph Expo, visit www.creo.com/news.

Images available for download at www.creo.com/imagebank.

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are described under the caption "Certain Factors That May Affect Future Results" and elsewhere in our Annual Report for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and which are incorporated herein by reference. We do not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this news release.

About Creo

Creo Inc. is a global company with key strengths in imaging and software technology. The leading provider of prepress systems, Creo helps over 25,000 customers worldwide adopt digital production methods which reduce costs, increase print quality and allow them to serve their customers more efficiently. Based on a solid foundation of intellectual property, Creo has an unmatched range of technology solutions that address the needs of commercial, publication, on demand, packaging, and newspaper printers, and creative professionals. Creo product lines include software and hardware for computer-to-plate imaging, systems for digital photography, scanning, and proofing, as well as printing plates and proofing media. Creo also supplies on-press imaging technology, components for digital presses, color servers, and high-speed digital printers. Based in Vancouver, Canada, Creo reported fiscal 2003 revenue of US$578 million. Creo trades on NASDAQ (CREO) and the TSX (CRE). www.creo.com