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.

Data-driven graphics are designed for use in collaborative work environments. Following are some examples of how data-driven graphics fit into different job roles:

• 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 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® Graphics Server to further automate the rendering process.