SAN LUIS OBISPO — Dov Isaacs, a principal scientist at Adobe Systems Inc., has completed two quarters as a Cal Poly Graphic Communication Research Professor from Industry. 

In winter and spring quarters 2013, Isaacs taught Emerging Technologies courses, focusing on variable data publishing including design, production and analysis covering proper design and reliable workflow for variable data publications using the ISO PDF/VT variable data publishing and PDF/X-4 standard file formats.

Isaacs also led a research project involving students and faculty who participated with Adobe in testing its PDF/VT format and creating text, images, design, databases, and the use of advanced software. The “test files” will be used for testing raw RIP and engine performance and quality and will be used as demonstration assets. The results will be presented by Isaacs and the students this fall in Chicago at PRINT 13, the largest graphic communication exposition, held in North America every four years.

Adobe provided the software to create and test the files. XMPie, a Xerox company, provided the software to use in conjunction with the Adobe Creative Suite for VDP personalization and PDF/VT generation.

Cal Poly graphic communication professor Howard Vogl worked with Isaacs, overseeing the administration of the course and research project.

According to Isaacs, the project may be expanded to use the data developed to explore variable data email and PURL assets, completing a true cross-media workflow experience.

Harvey Levenson, head of Cal Poly’s Graphic Communication Department, said, “In the Research Professor from Industry program, distinguished scholars, leaders and specialists from industry volunteer to teach and work with students and faculty on unique, cutting-edge projects. We’ve had many distinguished industry leaders participate in the program over the years, adding substantially to our students’ education in preparing them to enter the graphic communication profession.”

Isaacs, a 23-year veteran of Adobe, is responsible for workflow and product interoperability issues associated with publishing workflow products. He provided the initial vision and strategy for the development of the Adobe PDF print engine technology and product. Isaacs serves as Adobe’s representative to the Ghent Workgroup, the RIT Cross-Media Innovation Center, CIP4, and several ISO committees associated with print industry standards including PDF/X and PDF/VT, for which he serves as chairman and co-chairman respectively.

Isaacs founded Adobe’s corporate product interoperability group and served in other engineering and marketing management positions within Adobe, including serving seven years as director of quality assurance for Adobe's PostScript printing and driver products.