Learn how to download, load, and control readymade overlay templates in Xpress using the built-in Content Management Form (CMF)—a friendly control panel that lets you edit, numbers, images, logos, themes, fonts, and brand colors without opening the designer.
Who this is for: Producers, operators, and creators who want fast, on-brand overlays with minimal setup.
Xpress installed (latest version recommended)
Readymade overlays (from the Xpress Store)
Your brand assets (logo in PNG/SVG, color hex codes, preferred fonts if you plan to use a custom font pack)
Good to know: Readymade templates ship with a CMF—a ready-made form that exposes only the inputs you need. You can change data, themes, fonts, and styles safely without touching the underlying scene.
Start by opening the Xpress software on your system. Once it’s loaded, head over to the Template Pool.
Click on Import and browse to the location where your downloaded template is saved. Select the file and bring it into Xpress.
Now, create a new Playlist. Drag and drop the template into that Playlist.
Here’s the important part—make sure to select CG to begin editing, because that’s what unlocks the customization panel.
Click on the text fields inside your template. Replace the default text with your own content—like names, headlines, or lower thirds.
Inside the UDT (User Data Template), you’ll find controls to adjust font, size, and style so your text looks exactly the way you want.
Change logos and images wherever required.
Some templates are simple, while others use UDT (User Defined Tables) to handle more complex overlay data.
Use the built-in Content Management Form (CMF) to:
Select a pre defined theme
Or, Update your brand colors
Use Preview to check text fit, logos, and contrast.
When ready, press Take/On Air to display overlays in your live output.
Use Update Live for real-time changes, or Cut/Out to remove overlays.
Save your configurations as presets for quick recall during shows. This ensures consistent branding and faster operation in future broadcasts.
Keep names short on lower thirds; push longer info to tickers.
Test themes with logos to maintain contrast.
Preset all overlays before going live.
You’re ready to go live. With readymade overlays, UDT, and the CMF, you can focus on storytelling and delivery—not technical setup.