This is the hub of the operation and the number of different workflows you can buy are endless. Most workflows these days run in one of two ways. The first is R.O.O.M (Rip Once Output Many) workflows. These workflows work in a bitmap or image environment.

So with the R.O.O.M workflow the Server will RIP the file and generate a proof file, that can be output to a proofer and a softproof file which can be sent via e-mail if you want to view it on screen. Its all down to resolution. The second kind of workflow is the vector based mathematical system. This system is not guaranteed as safe. The file you send to the Server will be optimised, checked to ensure no fonts are missing and any RGB files that may have got in will be converted into CMYK. At the end of this, the workflow will normally give you a pdf file which you can then send to the proofing device and your printer. The down side to this is that every rip can interpret the file differently and as a result of this a page may change.