Press maker Koenig & Bauer has teamed with a new software startup focussed on “future-proofing” print.

The strategic partnership with CoCoCo commits to enhancing connectivity and data analysis across the print production process, with the platform shown at DRUPA in May.

For K&B, this means expanded capabilities of its myKyana ecosystem, providing real-time monitoring, holistic data analysis, predictive maintenance and AI-driven insights based on data from multiple sources including prepress, postpress and ERP systems.

By connecting software modules and third-party machines, the aim is to eliminate the limitations of isolated systems and proprietary technologies, which the company says “has traditionally been a significant burden for print service providers.

The CoCoCo platform introduces a structured data storage solution with low-code automation engine; a tool to simplify connectivity between different software and machines; and a rule-based job dispatcher designed to share job data among trusted partners.

Digitalisation vice president Sandra Wagner says the “unprecedented level of data transparency and analysis” will drive efficiency, innovation and ultimately profitability for print shops worldwide.

CoCoCo co-founder Andreas Aplien says the company is already working with its first beta customers and will introduce them to the market soon.

Pictured (from left):

K&B digital development head Felix Oberdorf, CoCoCo co-founders John Maxwell and Karl Ciz, Sandra Wagner, Andreas Aplien, and K&B digital operations head Marcel Guntsch.