Variable data printing (VDP) software is a type of digital printing solution that allows users to modify elements such as text, images, and graphics between copies. VDP solutions are typically leveraged by marketers for advertising and direct marketing since the software enables mass production of content with personalized elements like names and addresses. Typically, adding these personalized elements to physical content can be time-consuming with desktop publishing software since each personalized copy would need to be manually created. Variable data printing software digitally itemizes the elements within a piece of content, allowing pieces to be changed during printing.
Variable data printing software can be offered as a standalone tool, but many options are available as plugins or modules for larger desktop publishing solutions. VDPs often integrate with tools capable of designing marketing collateral, such as document creation software, vector graphics software, and photo editing software.
To qualify for the Variable Data Printing (VDP) category, a product must:
Access designated databases or files
Allow users to itemize the elements within digital content
Allow users to personalize individual sections of digital content