Australian EFI expert gains JDF certification
According to Ford, the certification, which involves 13 separate training modules and a final four-hour examination addressing specific topics associated with JDF technology, will enable him to better implement JDF-based automated processes and CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing) into graphic arts operations in the region.
The programme was established by CIP4 to provide a consistent worldwide understanding of the JDF process in the graphic communication and industry.
“JDF is a serious consideration for Australian print providers when purchasing equipment and software,” said Ford. “As competition from Asia increases, the ability to improve workflows, productivity and customer service helps Australian printers offer improved service and quality while helping to minimize cost of production. JDF offers benefits that can significantly transform business processes.
“JDF is often misperceived as a new technology - where in reality it’s a new common language.”
With over 20 years in the industry - the past 10 as an MIS specialist - Julian Ford (pictured) is a technical sales specialist and a founding team member of EFI’s Australian MIS division. Ford has full responsibility for MIS implementation and support of EFI’s MIS portfolio that includes JDF. He now applies his recently developed knowledge to the uniqueness of the Australian and wider print markets.
“EFI is committed to providing the industry’s most advanced, innovative MIS solutions, based upon a true understanding of the individual elements of our customers’ systems and procedures, “said Ford. “Through detailed familiarity with both the challenges printers face on a practical level and the opportunities available to them through technological advances, the greater the value EFI offers.”
“Julian’s certification gives our customers a great advantage,” said Eric Holtsmark, Director of Sales, EFI Asia Pacific. “By offering detailed insight into JDF technology, we can help our customers make informed purchasing decisions when it comes to process automation prepress, printing and finishing technology.”
ABOUT CIP4
CIP4 brings together vendors, consultants and end-users in the print communications, graphic arts industry and associated sectors, covering a variety of equipment, software, peripherals, and processes. Members participate in focused working groups to define future versions of JDF, to study user requirements, and to design the JDF SDK. For information on CIP4, including membership details: www.cip4.org
ABOUT the Job Definition Format (JDF)
JDF is an industry standard designed to simplify information exchange between different applications and systems in and around the graphic arts industry. JDF builds on and extends beyond pre-existing partial solutions such as CIP3’s Print Production Format (PPF) and Adobe Systems’ Portable Job Ticket Format (PJTF). It also enables the integration of commercial and planning applications into the technical workflow. JDF joins the growing number of standards based on XML, ensuring maximum possible portability between different platforms and ready interaction with Internet-based systems.
With over 20 years in the industry - the past 10 as an MIS specialist - Julian Ford (pictured) is a technical sales specialist and a founding team member of EFI’s Australian MIS division. Ford has full responsibility for MIS implementation and support of EFI’s MIS portfolio that includes JDF. He now applies his recently developed knowledge to the uniqueness of the Australian and wider print markets.