IPA: The Association of Graphic Solutions Providers and CIP4, the group that defines JDF, are teaming up to offer a second round of live, on-line JDF webinars. The “JDF Expert Certificate” training programs will be offered beginning October 27, 2004, and will be offered every two weeks, concluding in April 2005.

Attendees will better understand how process automation can meet their company's requirements; gain insight into strategies to migrate to a JDF-enabled environment; learn how to read JDF and understand how print meta data flows throughout the workflow; and be better prepared to evaluate new software, systems, and equipment.

The complete JDF program comprises 13 sessions, ranging from an “Introductory” session to “JDF Structures,” “Job Message Format,” and “Automating Preflighting” to “JDF Prepress,” “JDF Digital Printing,” and “JDF Post Press Operations.” After attending the training session, attendees must pass a final examination to achieve the certificate and use the “JDF Expert” designation.

All training sessions are provided live, allowing for instructor interaction and audience questions. In addition, on-demand recordings of the basic instruction are also available for Internet viewing.

Program fees range from $70 (introductory overview) to $145 per live or recorded session. The complete program (all 13 sessions) is priced at $1570 ($1895 for live and on-demand capability). The final exam fee is $199.

Note: Readers of The Big Picture can save $200 on the price of the complete program by entering the code “BIGPIC” upon registration. (IPA: www.ipa.org/jdf; CIP4: www.cip4.org)