Working with layout templates or Layout Module templates in Studio for InDesign

Templates play a central role in the process of setting up and using a production process.

They make it possible to not only create content quickly — such as articles or layouts — but also ensure that this content contains the required (and allowed) components and styling for the publication in which that content is used.

This article describes how to work with layout templates and Layout Module templates in Studio for InDesign.

Creating

To create a layout template or Layout Module template, create a regular layout and add the required content for the publication in which it is used, including the following:

• Paragraph styles and character styles
• Swatches
• Frames that act as placeholders for text or graphics (with optional planned images)
• (Optional) Text variables

When done, check-in the layout and make sure that the option 'Save as Template' at the bottom of the check-in dialog box is selected.

Note: Some of the properties that are defined in the template will be inherited by the layout that is based on it. Which properties these are depends on the version of Studio Server that Studio for InDesign is connected to. For a full overview, see Properties that are inherited when creating a file from a template in Studio or in Studio for InDesign and InCopy.

Editing

To open a layout template or Layout Module template for editing, do the following:

• In the Studio panel, double-click the template while holding down the Option key (macOS) or Alt key (Windows).

Using

To use a layout template or Layout Module template as a layout, open it by using any of the regular methods. A new layout is created named 'Untitled'. To add it to the workflow, use one of the methods for saving it.

Note: The created layout will inherit some of the properties that are defined in the template it is based on it. Which properties these are depends on the version of Studio Server that Studio for InDesign is connected to. For a full overview, see Properties that are inherited when creating a file from a template in Studio or in Studio for InDesign and InCopy.