PIA/GATF Announces JDF User Group Formation

How do you effect cross-vendor implementations?

How does my MIS integrate into my press and prepress?

What happens with postpress?

Where do I start?

What do I need to avoid?

How do I optimize the integration of new installations into my existing workflows?

Ray Hartman, keynote speaker at PIA/GATF’s 2007 Workflow Conference, commented, “automation of workflow is one of the best opportunities to drive productivity and costs out of production and reduce the number of touch points. This is something I have been advocating and am pleased that PIA/GATF, as the premier printing association, has taken a lead on this.”

“Implementing process automation, even with JDF, requires active participation by the printer’s staff,” said James Harvey, Executive Director of CIP4. “Different vendors have different philosophies for how they are implementing process automation, and printers may find themselves acting as project managers to work out issues that may arise when multiple systems are integrated. The JDF User Group fills a huge void in the industry by providing a forum where users can learn from each other, exchange ideas, and present issues to the vendor community. In this format, they are sure to get answers. I can say that CIP4 itself looks forward to hearing the issues that printers discover, and I expect the JDF User Group’s input will have a direct impact on CIP4’s ongoing development work and will ultimately benefit the entire printing industry.”

The JDF User Group will meet three times a year throughout the country. More information on the JDF User Group, including how to join, is available by contacting Hallie Barcalow, Research Coordinator, at 412-259-1706 or hbarcalow@piagatf.org, or Dr. Mark Bohan at 412-259-1782 or mbohan@piagatf.org.

About PIA/GATF
PIA/GATF is the world’s largest graphic arts trade association representing an industry with more than 1.2 million employees. It serves the interests of more than 12,000 member companies. PIA/GATF, along with its affiliates, delivers products and services that enhance the growth, efficiency and profitability of its members and the industry through advocacy, education, research and technical information.