InDesign Data Merge - Can I do this?

[@russellsdesk]

I'm producing 2 x 200+ catalogues and I want to use InDesign Data Merge.

Following is an example of what I need to achieve with placeholder copy and image boxes.

My question is can Data Merge handle different product codes for colour options. I'm guessing they need to be in different columns in my spreadsheet.

Or do I need to go down the route of a third party plugin like InCatalog.

Thank you

[Laubender]

Hi,

yes. Think of monochrome images you can place with Data Merge. Use them as background fill to text.

Or, more advanced, use text patterns for GREP Styles that trigger character styles that use different fill colors.

More on this:

Changing Colors During a Data Merge
Colin Flashman June 4, 2018

https://indesignsecrets.com/changing-colors-during-a-data-merge.php

Making Heat Maps with GREP and Data Merge
Colin Flashman April 27, 2018

https://indesignsecrets.com/making-heat-maps-with-grep-and-data-merge.php

Regards,
Uwe Laubender

( ACP )

[@russellsdesk]

Thank you for replying Uwe.

I doen't think I explained my conundrum that well...

I don't want to add colour during the data merge. The question is, how well can Data Merge handle different product codes.

[Laubender]

The question is, how well can Data Merge handle different product codes.

As well as everything else.

If you can define your product code in a logical way and can add it to a spreadsheet you could e.g. do a data source text file where the fields are delimited by tabs.

Did you try something with Data Merge and the result is not as expected?

Then we need more details to help you.

Regards,
Uwe Laubender

( ACP )

[@russellsdesk]

Hi Uwe

Yes, I need to rework the clients spreadsheet, and do a test.

I'll let you know how I get on.

Thanks for your help Uwe