PIA/GATF Announces JDF User Group Formation

Pittsburgh—Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF) and International Cooperation for the Integration of Process in Prepress, Press, and Postpress (CIP4) announced the formation of a JDF User Group to focus on the implementation of JDF-enabled systems and cross-vendor implementations.

The first JDF User Group meeting will be held March 24–25, 2008 in Pittsburgh, PA. The first day starts at 2:00 p.m. at PIA/GATF and will provide a hands-on look at JDF implementations within the facility and a discussion of the challenges to creating successful implementations. Day two will consist of panel discussions, case studies, and peer networking; sessions will finish by mid-day.

The group is aimed at a wide range of users of JDF-enabled systems from creation to fulfillment; this includes sheetfed, web, and digital production facilities and focuses on the practical implementation of different systems. Its steering committee is made up entirely of printers who have either implemented systems or are in the process of implementation.

There are many exciting new solutions to workflow available at the moment, with even more being introduced at drupa 2008. The JDF User Group seeks to address and answer these important questions involved with JDF implementation and more:

• 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?

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.