Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, – Printing Industries of America's newest booklet, Best Practices for Print Automation by James E. Harvey, executive director of the CIP4 Organization, helps printers take their first steps toward automation in the pressroom. This booklet collects valuable advice gleaned from Automation Solutions Network meetings and shares it with an audience interested in JDF-enabled process automation.

As printers begin planning JDF-enabled print automation, Best Practices for Print Automation provides a short, to-the-point guidance that printers need. James Harvey worked with the members of the Automated Solutions Network to collect lessons learned, advice, and tips from printers that have already made the journey to print automation. Best Practices for Print Automation isn't one expert's advice or an academic book, nor is it a technical reference; rather, Best Practices for Print Automation is printers communicating to printers.

Best Practices for Print Automation covers vital topics about JDF integration, such as:

• Training
• Obtaining C-Level Support
• Working with Vendors
• Working with Customers
• Technical Considerations
• Operational Considerations
• Job Submission

For many printers the biggest reason for not pursuing print automation is a lack of knowledge of process automation or lack of staff training and expertise. "Implementing print automation is different than purchasing a piece of equipment, it requires planning, project management by the printer, and a vision," Jim Harvey, said. "Even for printers that have just begun planning JDF-enabled print automation, the process can seem difficult and confusing. Best Practices for Print Automation helps to answer the basic questions and provide the guidance they need."

CIP4 conducted a recent analysis of more than 70 case studies and found that the average annual ROI for print automation is 277%. In addition, they found that the average labor savings for printers that implement print automation is more than three staff-years per year. Overall the printers that have implemented JDF-enabled print automation are healthier, more profitable, more productive, and more responsive to customers.

Best Practices for Print Automation is ideal for owners, general managers, or managers considering taking the lead on implementing print automation at their plant. Best Practices for Print Automation (ISBN: 9780883627167) is available now from Printing Industries Press for $20, or $15 for members of Printing Industries of America. To purchase the book, visit www.printing.org/store or call 1-800-910-4283 ext. 770, or 412-259-1770.