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Using Help | Contents |
Creating Templates for
Data-Driven Graphics
About data-driven graphics
Data-driven graphics make it possible to produce multiple versions of artwork quickly and
accurately. Let's say, for example, that you need to produce 500 different Web banners
based on the same template. In the past, you had to manually populate the template with
data (images, text, and so on). With data-driven graphics, you can use a script referencing a
database to generate the Web banners for you.
In Illustrator, you can turn any piece of artwork into a template for data-driven graphics.
All you need to do is define which objects on the artboard are dynamic (changeable)
using variables. You use variables to change text strings, linked images, graph data, and
the visibility setting of objects in your artwork. In addition, you can create different sets of
variable data in order to easily view what your template will look like when it is rendered.
Templates provide a means of collaboration between designers, developers, and
production staff:
If you're a designer, creating a template gives you control over the dynamic elements of
•
your design. When you hand your template over for production, you can be sure that
only the variable data will change.
If you're a developer, you can code variables and data sets directly into an XML file. The
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designer can then import the variables and data sets into an Illustrator file to create a
design based on your specifications.
If you're responsible for production, you can use scripts within Illustrator, the Batch
•
command, or a Web production tool such as Adobe GoLive 6.0 to render the final
graphics. You can also use a dynamic imaging server such as Adobe AlterCast
further automate the rendering process. (See
processing" on page
Using Help | Contents |
Creating Templates for Data-Driven Graphics
Index
369.)
Index
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"Using scripts" on page 374
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to
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and "Batch
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