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The LiveCycle Enterprise Suite is a J2EE-based server that combines Adobe Flex, the XML and scripting-based Web application development technology, with the capabilities PDF. According to Adobe, when Flash Player is added to the mix, LiveCycle ES enables 'a new class of "customer engagement" applications that easily connect people inside and outside organisations to internal information and processes'.

The focus of the suite is on building large-scale applications using online services. Adobe says that by transforming processes such as account enrolment, claims processing and guided self service, the software will reduce the number of people who find online procedures so confusing or frustrating that they simply abandon transactions.

To achieve this, LiveCycle ES uses components

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to build, manage and optimise Web apps, with 'wizard-like' Form Guides and Flash-based graphics. Once data is captured, says Adobe, LiveCycle ES automates the processing of the data, including integration with rules engines, data stores, and Web services. Data output capabilities include interactive dashboards and dynamic, high-volume printing. There are also tools for implementing rights management, document certification and digital signatures.

'With Adobe LiveCycle ES, we can build on the gains we made with previous versions of LiveCycle to further improve workflows and better engage employees and customers in everyday processes,' said Paul Heyes, application manager, Document Solutions Group, US Bank. 'Enhancing document security, supporting e-signatures, and integrating other important capabilities are simplified. LiveCycle ES makes refining our workflows faster and more feasible.'

LiveCycle ES will be available in two editions from July. The Business Transformation Edition will include the following components: Data Capture Edition, Process Management, Digital Signatures, Rights management and Output. The Data Capture Edition will include: Forms, Data Services, Barcoded Forms and Reader Extensions. The components will also be available individually.