Chicago – EFI, a world leader in customer-focused digital printing innovation, today announced that integrated support for Job Definition Format (JDF) workflows is now standard on Fiery servers with its latest Fiery system 9 software (also announced today). Fiery JDF integrated technology enables print operators to simplify configuration and integration between production workflows, automating data collection and reducing manual data re-entry which significantly improves production turn-around and reduces waste. Fiery JDF-integrated workflows will be on display at EFI's booth (2500) at PRINT 09, taking place through Sept. 16th.

JMF (Job Messaging Format) and JDF ticketing capabilities are now embedded in the system 9 codebase, and utilize the intuitive Fiery Command WorkStation user interface to manage the workflow. Legacy Fiery controllers – with close to 50 supported so far – can be upgraded to the new functionality with a free software update, opening up a new opportunity to integrate web-to-print, MIS and other workflow solutions with Fiery-driven production print engines.

"EFI has been committed to JDF since 2005, and this is the logical evolution of our strategy to ensure customers can easily benefit from the power of automated production. JDF reduces manual data re-entry and simplifies workflows to enable more jobs to be produced on the same engines, leading to greater profit potential for print providers and often reduced staffing needs," said Ghilad Dziesietnik, CTO of EFI. "This launch of Fiery JDF also provides tighter integration with our web-to-print platform, allowing our hundreds of Digital StoreFront customers to further streamline their workflows."

The forthcoming EFI Digital StoreFront (DSF) version 4.5 will send JDF details directly to the Fiery server, shortening production times and eliminating errors. Direct connectivity from DSF to the Fiery server enables the auto-discovery of Fiery devices on the network, making installation of DSF or Fiery devices much simpler.

Integration with Industry Leaders through JDF
EFI has been working closely with leading engine and software companies to enable end-to-end integrated workflows.  Working with Canon Inc. and Agfa Graphics, EFI has completed testing to ensure the JDF-driven workflow solutions from Canon and Agfa integrate with Fiery technology. In particular, enhancements have been recently made to the DigitalPrint Link sold by Agfa Graphics, bringing tighter integration with Canon engines powered by Fiery servers and Agfa's Apogee Suite.

Kodak and EFI have expanded their extensive JDF collaboration to now offer Kodak Prinergy users the ability to seamlessly connect and print to EFI Fiery controllers, taking full advantage of JDF and the print engine features.  Prinergy users are able to integrate to several EFI management systems (EFI Monarch, EFI Pace and EFI Prograph), and now with the introduction of a JDF connection to the Fiery sever, they have a much broader choice for driving digital print engines than ever before.

The new Fiery platform with Fiery JDF and DSF is on display as part of the CIP4 "JDF Works Print Shop Live" demonstration in EFI's booth at Print 09 at McCormick Place. Visit Agfa in booth 2600; Canon USA in booth 2612; and Kodak in booth 6907. For more information, visit www.efi.com or contact 800-875-7117.