Postpress Automation — Backing into IT

As for incorporating legacy equipment into JDF workflows, Mauro endorses the concept of having operators manually enter data through what he calls Human Interface Terminals. "This approach is a proven method that has been used in printing and other industries for many years," he asserts.

Will the implementation of JDF/CIM become the next revolution in printing? The concept has met with its share of skepticism. The plan is pretty much in place, though, and many of the pieces should be too after Drupa. The answer then will be found in how industry companies choose to vote with their investment dollars.