Abstract: For generating and finishing documents, a first data file in a first format, which describes the content of a document, is provided. The first data file is converted into a second data file (21-25; 121-125) in a second format, in which image defining instructions and other instructions for finishing the document occur. The second data file (21-25; 121-125) is processed into a processed second data file (21-25) with driving instructions for generating documents and associated driving instructions for finishing documents. Thereafter, in accordance with the driving instructions, a document is generated and finished in accordance with the driving instructions. Also disclosed are a system and a program structure for carrying out the proposed method. A considerable saving on the variety of software required for operating different operating systems and kinds of equipment is feasible, while information concerning the image such as it has been created in composing the document is maintained.

Abstract: For generating and finishing documents, a first data file in a first format, which describes the content of a document, is provided. The first data file is converted into a second data file (21-25; 121-125) in a second format, in which image defining instructions and other instructions for finishing the document occur. The second data file (21-25; 121-125) is processed into a processed second data file (21-25) with driving instructions for generating documents and associated driving instructions for finishing documents. Thereafter, in accordance with the driving instructions, a document is generated and finished in accordance with the driving instructions. Also disclosed are a system and a program structure for carrying out the proposed method. A considerable saving on the variety of software required for operating different operating systems and kinds of equipment is feasible, while information concerning the image such as it has been created in composing the document is maintained.

Abstract: For making ready for mailing a message intended for an addressee, presentation instructions valid for that message, for determining a form of presentation of the message to the addressee are selected. A file of content-determining instructions of the message and of the presentation instructions is transferred to a peripheral device for making the message ready for mailing. The message is subsequently made ready for mailing in accordance with the file of content-determining instructions and the presentation instructions. Selecting the presentation instructions occurs by selecting a single, priorly stored file of presentation instructions which contains instructions concerning the design of the document itself and concerning the processing of the document. A data structure for carrying out the proposed method is also described.