We have software problem(s). GRD and then HMS have used some very old graphic software for a number of years. We knew we were past the lifespan for the version we were using and with the decision to combine the quarter maps into full size, the old Mac we used refused to move beyond a slow crawl. This was solved by upgrading the processor and memory. The upgrade worked well but included a new OS and needed to use a newer (still old) graphics software version.
This appeared to work well and the maps were polished using the new version of the software. Concerned about the color shades for the maps and the combining of the quarter maps, we had a single map proof done locally. The results were not good. It appears as if the use of the old and newer version of the graphics package has corrupted the finished map files. For the past few days, we have consulted with several Adobe graphic artists and a local graphics software engineer. While they may come up with a way to remove the corrupted portions of the files, we started looking at and working on a worst case solution.
Most of the work on the maps is the research and placement of the map features. These are still available in our earlier version. To reenter these will take a approximately four weeks before we turn them over to the printers. That will then start their time needed. We will keep you informed as to whether a faster solution is possible. The counters and boxes are not affected by this problem. We apologize for what is certainly our mistake and will do everything we can to avoid losing any more time. At this point, Christmas is more likely than Thanksgiving for TW.
