Positively, Absolutely, Certifiably JDF

Do printers actually want to implement JDF (Job Definition Format), that oft-heralded, long-promised language of link-up for plant production processes? If so, what have they been waiting for? Perhaps they're awaiting products that are independently certified to work with JDF. If so, heady expectations for the standard should be realized as the Pittsburgh test labs of PIA/GATF certify increasing numbers of products under the direction of Mark Bohan, Ph.D., VP research and technology.

When drupa 2008 opens on May 29, “You'll see several MIS systems announce their JDF certification,” Dr. Bohan predicts. “Many people know that Global Graphics was the first to be certified with their Harlequin RIP, but now we've also certified products from Dynagram, Agfa, Kodak and Heidelberg—and you're about to see a very big upturn.”

The JDF Product Certification Program is offered by the International Cooperation for the Integration of Processes in Prepress, Press and Postpress organization (CIP4)—keeper of JDF standards. “It's not a rubber stamping; it's a rigorous procedure,” insists Bohan, whose proper British accent and reserved demeanor make him the perfect facilitator for what must be a rancorous international effort.

While many vendors have applied, some have failed to meet the demanding JDF certification criteria. “We test that the product can actually do those things specified,” says Bohan, referring to data transference by systems and machines. “If you don't send required information or you can't accept it, that becomes a problem. If problems occur, we give feedback to the vendor and the CIP4 Technical Steering Committee.”Gaining momentum

As to the pace of the process, Bohan offers a ready explanation: “We started off slowly at first, with just three products. We were basically waiting for the ICS [Interoperability Conformance Specifications] documents from JDF 1.3 to be published to move on into the MIS applications.” After new JDF specs were revealed last fall, PIA/GATF researchers could finally begin certifying. “The MIS certification suite of tests took us over a year to design,” Bohan says.

Despite the cost of certification (from $1,500 to $6,000 per ICS), vendors are finding the assurance it offers to potential customers well worth the price. “The JDF certification process allows printers to make more informed choices,” says François Guerard, CEO of Dynagram, which makes workflow systems. “It helped bring our DynaStrip product to the next level in interoperability conformance, and ... [it] helped establish new partnerships with vendors.” Guerard says he would consider additional certifications to keep current with future JDF specifications.

Despite the value of the certification process, it's no guarantee of plug-and-play performance between different systems. “We're not testing product against product compatibility,” notes Bohan. “The JDF certification process is a software check to make sure that [the product] does what is required.”

ONLINE: Read more at to www.cip4.org.