Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Desktop Publishing
Software-Based Automation of Artwork Processes
- 2026
- Book
- Author
- Ennis Gündoğan
- Publisher
- Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden
About this book
This book aims to present readers with various automation possibilities in the field of desktop publishing and to encourage them to integrate these into their workflows in order to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of their design and production processes. The methods range from small tools—such as scripts integrated into DTP software like Adobe InDesign for the automatic generation of graphic assets—to complex software infrastructures capable of automating the publishing of thousands of documents.
The book strives to cover as many scenarios as possible, appeal to a broad audience, and concisely address all key topics related to automation in desktop publishing. Additionally, it uses case studies to demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of automation and offers multiple perspectives on DTP-related subtopics.
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Table of Contents
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Frontmatter
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Chapter 1. Desktop Publishing
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the origins and evolution of Desktop Publishing (DTP), highlighting its revolutionary impact on the design and printing industry. It traces the development of DTP from the early 1970s at Xerox PARC to the breakthrough in 1985 with the introduction of PageMaker by Aldus Corporation. The text explores how DTP transformed workflows, drastically reducing the time required for design processes and enabling new creative possibilities. It also examines the consolidation of various design roles into the DTP publisher role, which became central to organizational structures. The chapter discusses the evolution of key software applications like Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, and their role in establishing Adobe as a major player in the publishing market. Additionally, it highlights the advancements in DTP technology, including features that were unimaginable in the early days, and the shift to cloud computing with Adobe CC. The text concludes by emphasizing the enduring relevance of DTP and its continued impact on the publishing industry.AI Generated
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AbstractDTP, or “desktop publishing,” was born in 1985 through the collaboration of Adobe Systems, Aldus Corporation, and Apple Computer. Prior to this, graphic designers worked with manual methods, such as paper, scissors, and glue. The introduction of DTP had a significant impact on organizational structures and established a new central role for the DTP publisher—a consolidation of various roles, such as graphic designer, typographer, typesetter, and secretary—within an organization. The time required for many DTP processes was drastically reduced from several hours or even days to minutes or even seconds. Aldus Corporation—the company behind the DTP application PageMaker—was acquired by Adobe in 1994, and PageMaker served as the foundation for Adobe InDesign, released in 1999. Today, InDesign can be licensed either as a standalone application or as part of a bundled software package. Adobe applications, including InDesign, are still considered the industry standard in the field of DTP. Furthermore, with rapid technological advancements, not only have the tools available for content creation changed significantly, but the range of media through which messages can be communicated has also multiplied. -
Chapter 2. The Future of Desktop Publishing
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the evolving landscape of desktop publishing, with a particular emphasis on the shift towards mobile applications and the integration of artificial intelligence. It begins by examining the growing demand for mobile content creation tools, highlighting Adobe's efforts to port its desktop applications to mobile platforms, such as Photoshop and Illustrator for the iPad. The chapter then explores the role of AI in desktop publishing, focusing on Adobe Sensei and its various applications in enhancing digital content creation. Recent innovations, such as the introduction of Firefly and its integration into Photoshop and Illustrator, are discussed in detail. The chapter also touches on the potential future applications of AI in desktop publishing, including the automation of content creation and the generation of complete publications based on layout templates. Additionally, it highlights the role of AI in post-processing and web-based publication outputs. The chapter concludes by providing a glimpse into the future of desktop publishing, where AI and automation are expected to play increasingly significant roles.AI Generated
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AbstractToday, content can be created not only on desktop devices but also on alternative platforms. Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are available for the iPad as mobile applications, as well as web applications. With Adobe Sensei and the Firefly technology based on it, new possibilities have emerged in AI-powered image generation. Currently, three new Firefly models are available: Firefly Image 3 integrated into Photoshop and InDesign, Firefly Vector Model integrated into Illustrator, and Firefly Design Model integrated into Adobe Express. In view of previous AI-related developments, it can be assumed that automation and AI will play an even greater role in the future of DTP. -
Chapter 3. Automation
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter explores the pivotal role of automation in driving efficiency and profitability across industries. It delves into the various levels and types of automation, from partial to full automation, and examines their applications in different sectors. The text categorizes automation technologies into four levels: Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Cognitive Process Automation (CPA), digital assistants, and autonomous agents. Each level is discussed in detail, highlighting their capabilities, use cases, and the underlying technologies such as Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing. The chapter also addresses the challenges and future directions in automation, particularly the development of autonomous agents capable of processing human emotional stimuli. By understanding these advancements, professionals can leverage automation to enhance operational efficiency and stay competitive in their respective fields.AI Generated
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AbstractAutomation plays a crucial role in securing an organization’s position in the market and maintaining its future competitiveness. Depending on the industry, automation can be defined and categorized in various ways. In general, automation mechanisms can be divided into two types: full automation and partial automation. In full automation, a process is carried out entirely by a machine, whereas in partial automation, a manual task is supported by a machine. In the field of automation, depending on the degree of automation, the use of AI, and process complexity, four automation technologies can be identified or classified: RPA, Cognitive Process Automation (CPA), digital assistants, and autonomous agents. While RPA uses software to operate existing application systems within a company to automatically perform structured tasks, adaptive CPA systems can recognize data patterns, enabling their use in complex and dynamic process structures. Digital assistants or voice assistants are capable of capturing natural human dialogues, processing them, and providing answers to complex questions. Autonomous agents refer to complex software systems that can make independent decisions and initiate further processes. -
Chapter 4. The Future of Automation
Ennis GündoğanThe chapter delves into the evolving role of AI-powered systems in business and everyday life, emphasizing their increasing sophistication in autonomous decision-making. It explores how machines will handle complex problems, learning from human input to refine their processes. The text addresses concerns about job losses due to automation, particularly in graphic design, and argues that automation technologies like RPA will enhance productivity rather than eliminate jobs. It highlights the restructuring of job profiles, enabling professionals to focus on more demanding tasks. The chapter also discusses the need for further training to adapt to new roles, with examples from the DTP sector where graphic designers could integrate programming skills to optimize workflows or transition into IT roles. The conclusion emphasizes the ongoing collaboration between humans and machines, ensuring that automation will always require human oversight.AI Generated
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AbstractAI-driven systems will play an increasingly significant role, and developments in machine learning will become progressively more sophisticated over time. Machines will continue to be fine-tuned by humans until they have accumulated sufficient experience to operate fully autonomously. The growing number of software-based automation processes has sparked a debate about the potential for substantial job losses. However, these concerns are currently unfounded, as not every automation opportunity is being fully exploited today. Furthermore, the division of tasks between humans and machines remains flexible. Automation technologies will not lead to job losses, but rather increase productivity within organizations. It is not jobs that are being rationalized, but tasks. As a result, skilled professionals will be able to take on more demanding responsibilities elsewhere. Additionally, systems supported by automation will always require human oversight. This leads to the conclusion that professionals will need to continue their education in the future in order to perform these new types of tasks. -
Chapter 5. Automation of Artwork Processes
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the automation of artwork processes, focusing on the transformation of advertising strategies into print and digital media. It highlights the role of automation in streamlining repetitive tasks, such as data merging and dynamic publishing, and discusses the evolution of automated publishing from early developments like 'Juno' to modern Adobe technologies. The text explores specific methods for automating design processes, emphasizing the use of Adobe applications and other DTP software. It also addresses the objectives and rationale behind automation, including cost reduction, error minimization, and employee relief from monotonous tasks. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of integrating automation into business processes and the potential for personal growth and motivation among employees. Additionally, it provides insights into the historical context, technological advancements, and practical applications of automation in the DTP sector, making it a valuable resource for professionals seeking to enhance efficiency and innovation in their workflows.AI Generated
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AbstractAutomation comes into play when processes follow a certain repetitive pattern. The range of automation options within artwork processes extends from small tools, such as scripts integrated into DTP software, to complex software infrastructures that enable automated publishing. Many current DTP applications offer various interfaces and extension options for developers. As with all forms of automation, the main objectives in the DTP domain are to reduce company costs and improve final outcomes through standardization and error reduction, as well as to relieve employees of labor-intensive and monotonous tasks. In contrast to creative design processes, humans are inefficient when performing repetitive tasks. These include, for example, copy-paste activities or the repeated production of graphic assets. Ideally, the structural shift from manual to automated processes is accompanied by a sense of purpose. By involving employees in the change process and transparently communicating the rationale behind these changes, not only is the fear of change reduced, but employee motivation is also increased through the opportunity to participate. Structural change is not about layoffs, but rather about alleviating workloads. The development of DTP automation solutions is variable and depends on how business processes are structured and managed within each company. -
Chapter 6. Extensible Markup Language (XML)
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the versatile applications of Extensible Markup Language (XML) in desktop publishing (DTP) automation. It explores how XML facilitates the separation of layout and text, allowing designers to create templates that can be populated with external content. The text discusses the hierarchical structure of XML files, their interoperability with other systems like content management systems (CMS) and databases, and the tools available for creating and editing XML files. It also covers the integration of XML with Adobe InDesign, including the use of XML tags, styles, and the automation of import and export processes. The chapter highlights the use of XSLT for sorting and transforming XML data, ensuring accurate content placement in layouts. Additionally, it introduces the concept of Document Type Definition (DTD) for validating XML files and the use of InDesign Markup Language (IDML) for describing entire InDesign documents in XML format. A case study on web-to-print scenarios illustrates the practical implementation of XML in automating the creation of order forms from online shop data. This comprehensive guide provides professionals with the knowledge and tools to leverage XML for efficient and automated desktop publishing workflows.AI Generated
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AbstractWith the markup language XML, InDesign enables a strict separation of layout and text. A particularly powerful XML feature in InDesign is the ability to assign previously imported or InDesign-created XML tags to predefined formats such as paragraph styles, character styles, and table styles. This makes it possible to populate entire layout templates with fully formatted content in a very short time. During an XML import, an Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformation (XSLT) file specifies, among other things, the order in which the XML elements should be sorted if the order of the tags in InDesign differs from that of the XML elements. To check for occurrences of specific elements, attributes, and entities in an XML file, Document Type Definition (DTD) files are used. These thus define the expected XML structure of an XML file. Another XML-related InDesign feature is the so-called InDesign Markup Language (IDML), a markup language introduced by Adobe to describe entire InDesign documents in XML format. In theory, this makes it possible to edit or even create an entire InDesign document using XML. Based on IDML are the so-called InDesign snippets in the IDMS file format. A snippet is an XML file that describes an InDesign asset. Any InDesign asset can be exported as a snippet. Likewise, snippets can be imported into an InDesign document and edited as desired. -
Chapter 7. Scripts
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter explores the power of scripting to automate tasks in Adobe applications such as InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator. It covers the use of various scripting languages, including ExtendScript, AppleScript, and VBScript, and provides practical examples of how to create and manipulate documents programmatically. The text also discusses the limitations of older scripting methods and introduces modern alternatives like UXP scripts, which are based on a more recent version of JavaScript. Additionally, it delves into the Document Object Model (DOM) and how it can be accessed and manipulated using scripting languages. The chapter concludes with a case study on automating the creation of business cards, demonstrating the practical applications of scripting in a real-world scenario. By reading this chapter, professionals will gain a deeper understanding of how to streamline their workflows and enhance productivity using scripting in Adobe applications.AI Generated
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AbstractMany Adobe applications can be controlled using scripts written in JavaScript (JS) based ExtendScript—Adobe’s proprietary scripting language—AppleScript, or Visual Basic Script (VBScript). It is possible to replicate virtually any UI interaction and function of a supported application through scripting. The range of possible applications extends from simple operation of menu elements to the generation of complex graphics on the DTP application’s canvas, and even to the automation of repetitive artwork processes in daily workflows. Scripts can be provided to users as standalone script files to be loaded into the respective Adobe application, but they can also be integrated with other Adobe technologies. -
Chapter 8. Global Regular Expressions Print (GREP)
Ennis GündoğanDiscover how GREP in InDesign revolutionizes text pattern matching and automation. This chapter delves into the syntax and functionality of regular expressions, offering practical examples to illustrate their power. Learn how to apply GREP for both text and formatting changes, and explore the integration of GREP with paragraph and character styles. The chapter also covers scripting GREP for automation, providing code snippets to streamline workflows. Whether you're looking to enhance your text editing capabilities or automate repetitive tasks, this guide offers valuable insights and practical tips to leverage GREP effectively.AI Generated
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AbstractAnother widely used and comprehensive feature in InDesign, particularly in the context of automation and scripting, is GREP. GREP extends the traditional text search by enabling the identification of desired text patterns using regular expressions and wildcards. What makes GREP unique is that search and replace operations can be applied not only to text but also to formatting. For example, it is possible to search for a text pattern in a specific font and replace it with both different text and a different font. GREP can also be controlled via scripts, making it suitable for use in both partial and full automation workflows. -
Chapter 9. C++ Plugins
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the intricacies of developing C++ plugins for Adobe applications, highlighting the differences between this method and scripting. It emphasizes the performance advantages of C++ plugins, which execute faster than scripting languages. The text provides a step-by-step guide on getting started with plugin development, including the necessary tools and resources available in the Adobe Developer Console. It also discusses the importance of choosing the right technology for DTP automation, considering the specific use cases and the level of abstraction required. The chapter concludes with a list of supplementary and advanced literature for further reading, ensuring that professionals have all the resources they need to successfully develop and implement C++ plugins in their projects.AI Generated
This summary of the content was generated with the help of AI.
AbstractSeveral Adobe applications, including InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, offer a Software Development Kit (SDK) that enables the respective application to be extended with a plugin written in the C++ programming language. The main difference between scripts and C++ plugins is that scripts control existing functions within the respective Adobe application, whereas C++ plugins can be used to implement new functions based on the application's existing capabilities. A key advantage of C++ plugins is performance, as this low-level programming language executes faster than, for example, a scripting language. The Adobe Developer Console serves as a central hub that, in addition to the SDKs, provides extensive documentation and code samples, which are essential for the development of C++ plugins, among others. -
Chapter 10. Common Extensibility Platform (CEP)
Ennis GündoğanThe chapter delves into the Common Extensibility Platform (CEP), a framework that allows developers to create custom extensions for Adobe applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It covers the architecture of CEP, highlighting its support for Node.js and ExtendScript, which enables powerful functionalities such as database connections and system information access. The text also discusses the transition from CEP to UXP, a newer technology that is gradually replacing CEP. A notable feature of CEP is its ability to integrate extensions seamlessly into Adobe applications, whether as panels, modal windows, or background processes. The chapter provides practical insights into organizing and configuring CEP extensions, including the use of manifest files and the handling of multilingual support. Additionally, it explores the use of CEP libraries like CSInterface.js and Vulcan.js for host communication and inter-application messaging. The chapter concludes with a case study that demonstrates the creation of a middleware panel for managing project data across multiple systems, showcasing the practical applications of CEP in a real-world scenario. This comprehensive overview makes the text a valuable resource for professionals seeking to understand and implement CEP in their workflows.AI Generated
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AbstractCEP enables the development of extensions using HTML, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and JS, which can be seamlessly integrated into the UI of Adobe applications, for example as a panel. The power of CEP lies in its support for Node.js and ExtendScript. The interplay of these technologies makes it possible to implement a wide range of software projects in the context of DTP automation. CEP technology not only enables interaction between a CEP extension and a host application, but also communication of host applications and CEP extensions with each other. -
Chapter 11. Unified Extensibility Platform (UXP)
Ennis GündoğanThe chapter provides an in-depth exploration of the Unified Extensibility Platform (UXP), a technology introduced by Adobe in 2018 to extend Creative Cloud applications. It discusses the architecture of UXP, its advantages over the older CEP technology, and how it enables direct interaction with Adobe applications via dedicated APIs. The text delves into the creation and management of UXP plugins using the UXP Developer Tool (UDT), highlighting the process of setting up, configuring, and debugging plugins. It also covers the implementation of multilingual support, event handling, and the use of Spectrum UXP Widgets for building user interfaces. The chapter concludes with a case study on transitioning a CEP extension to a UXP plugin, demonstrating the practical applications and benefits of UXP in real-world scenarios. This comprehensive guide is essential for professionals looking to enhance their workflows with modern JavaScript features and efficient host communication.AI Generated
This summary of the content was generated with the help of AI.
AbstractUXP is a technology introduced by Adobe in 2018 that enables the extension of CC applications based on JS, HTML, and CSS. Since then, this technology has been continuously developed. UXP can be seen as a modern replacement for CEP. A key difference compared to CEP is the efficient capability for direct interaction with an Adobe application using the respective application APIs, whereas CEP requires an additional layer to transmit a command to the host. Furthermore, UI elements created with HTML and CSS are converted into native UI elements of the respective host, resulting in additional performance advantages. -
Chapter 12. Adobe InDesign Server
Ennis GündoğanAdobe InDesign Server is a powerful tool designed for processing complex layout templates and generating multiple graphic assets, making it ideal for producing print products like catalogs and magazines. Unlike other Adobe applications, InDesign Server can be licensed separately and is the only Adobe application with a server variant. This variant allows for multiple InDesign instances to run simultaneously on a single machine, controlled exclusively via the command line, which significantly saves memory resources. The server variant includes all known features and technologies such as support for XML and scripting, making it functionally identical to the client version. InDesign Server can be accessed via the Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) network protocol, enabling communication with other applications. This allows for data retrieval, structuring, and subsequent graphic asset generation. The server can also notify client-side middleware upon task completion, facilitating seamless communication between server and client middleware. An exemplary use case illustrates a multi-step process across different systems, demonstrating the versatility and efficiency of InDesign Server in automating design tasks. The text also highlights the possibility of using InDesign Server independently, without client-server communication, and provides additional resources for further exploration.AI Generated
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AbstractAdobe InDesign Server is well-suited for processing complex layout templates and the mass generation of graphic assets. This application is not included in the Creative Cloud product family, but can be licensed separately by enterprise customers. Within the Adobe product family, InDesign is the only application for which a server variant exists. -
Chapter 13. Other Tools
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the various automation tools available within Adobe's Creative Cloud applications, designed to simplify routine tasks for users without programming experience. It covers the use of actions to record and repeat manual interactions in applications like Photoshop and Illustrator, allowing for the automation of repetitive tasks such as duplicating layers, scaling, and rotating elements. The Script Events Manager in Photoshop is explored, demonstrating how to link specific events, such as opening or saving documents, to custom scripts or actions for automated execution. Additionally, the Image Processor tool is highlighted for its capability to process multiple image files sequentially, applying actions and saving them in various formats. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the efficiency and time-saving benefits of these built-in automation features, making them invaluable for enhancing productivity in creative workflows.AI Generated
This summary of the content was generated with the help of AI.
AbstractFor simpler automation tasks, Adobe provides a variety of features within its applications. These are primarily aimed at users without programming experience and can be configured and used with minimal effort. Such features include actions in Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as the Script Event Manager and Image Processor in Photoshop. -
Chapter 14. Client-Server Communication
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the intricacies of client-server communication in the context of Desktop Publishing (DTP) automation. It emphasizes the importance of offloading resource-intensive tasks to the server to maintain optimal client performance. The text discusses the use of centralized layout templates, which can be populated with data from various sources, either through software extensions or XML imports. This approach allows for easy modifications by non-programmers, separating IT and design changes. The chapter also highlights the benefits of using server-side middleware to manage automation tasks, reducing errors and simplifying debugging. Additionally, it explores the implementation of notification systems to keep users informed about the status of server-side processes, using tools like Slack or MS Teams. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of intuitive user interfaces for middleware applications, ensuring seamless user interaction with automation routines.AI Generated
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AbstractIt is advisable to handle the majority of processes server-side and to perform as little data processing and automation as possible on the client, so that users do not experience any performance drawbacks. Nevertheless, when implementing a software infrastructure for DTP automation, it is always necessary to critically assess the effort required by each process in order to determine whether it is better suited for the client or the server. Layouts and graphic assets that are used repeatedly and differ primarily in content rather than design can be provided as templates on a central file server for multiple use. -
Chapter 15. Databases and Application Systems
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter delves into the integration of databases and application systems with Desktop Publishing (DTP) applications, highlighting the use of SQL, REST APIs, and middleware to streamline content creation. It explores the Extract-Transform-Load (ETL) process, which consolidates multiple data sources into a centralized 'Single Source of Truth' (SSOT), emphasizing the importance of the transformation subprocess. The text also discusses the role of logging in optimizing automation processes, particularly in advancing from Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to Cognitive Process Automation (CPA). By examining specific tools like Talend Data Integration and the potential for user-driven automation improvements, this chapter provides a detailed roadmap for enhancing data management and automation in DTP workflows.AI Generated
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AbstractFor content creation within the scope of DTP, data can be sourced not only from a single data source but also from various other sources such as databases. The connection between these data sources and the layouts can be established via a middleware or a plugin within the DTP application. If multiple data sources are used in the context of DTP automation, the Extract-Transform-Load (ETL) process may be considered. Furthermore, all software activities can be recorded in files or databases in the form of logs and later analyzed and used both for software optimization and for statistical purposes. If developers identify a specific pattern within the logs, this pattern can be defined as a new automation rule. -
Chapter 16. Integration with Process Management Applications
Ennis GündoğanThis chapter explores the integration of automation applications with process management tools, focusing on how status changes in workflows can trigger automated tasks. It highlights the use of webhooks for seamless communication between Business Process Management (BPM) applications like monday.com, Wrike, Process Street, or Jira and automation tools. The text provides a practical example of an automated artwork process that generates hundreds of graphic assets tailored to a specific project, demonstrating how automation can enhance efficiency and productivity. A detailed flow chart illustrates the integration process, showing how an automation is triggered by a specific status change, such as project start, and how the status is updated upon completion. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the benefits of automated processes that operate in the background, freeing up user time and resources.AI Generated
This summary of the content was generated with the help of AI.
AbstractAutomation applications can be triggered not only by users but also by other applications. A status change in a workflow within a process management application can simultaneously be defined as a trigger for an automated process. This is particularly suitable for automated artwork processes that are time-intensive, such as the generation of hundreds of graphic assets tailored to a specific project, which can be executed overnight. -
Backmatter
- Title
- Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Desktop Publishing
- Author
-
Ennis Gündoğan
- Copyright Year
- 2026
- Publisher
- Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden
- Electronic ISBN
- 978-3-658-49525-1
- Print ISBN
- 978-3-658-49524-4
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-658-49525-1
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