If you want to automate time-consuming processes


    Tight deadlines require efficient workflow, especially for designers and developers working in high-volume publishing environments. Illustrator lets you automate some of the most repetitive tasks, such as batch processing and creating variations of similar designs.

    • Build a basic template in Illustrator and define objects in the design as variables. Then use an automated script or an image server to produce unique variations, using data stored in any ODBC-compliant source. (See Working with data-driven graphics.)
    • Automate repetitive tasks using the rich scripting support, which allows access to almost every function in Illustrator. Write scripts using JavaScript, AppleScript, or Microsoft Visual Basic. (See Using scripts.)
    • Use the Illustrator Actions palette to group a series of commands into a single action. Then play back the action to repeat the entire set of steps automatically. You can even use the Batch command to apply an action to a folder of files and subfolders. (See Using actions.)