Adobe to host 'landmark' PDF meeting

Adobe Systems will host a "landmark meeting" of the Ghent PDF Workgroup (GWG) later this month that is expected to prove pivotal to the development of PDF automation specifications.

Members of the GWG attending the meeting, which will be held at Adobe's San Jose headquarters from 29-30 October, will discuss specifications based on the latest PDF/X-4 release.

GWG chairman David Zwang said that the 2009 GWG specifications would result in "some of the most profound advancements in automated PDF compliance".

Adobe has invited publishing, printing and graphic design executives to apply for a limited number of registered guest observer slots by contacting admin@gwg.org.

Those present at the meeting will also discuss and extend ad ticket support for electronic ads and insertion orders, and solidify spectral colour considerations for spot colour identification.

Zwang said that the meeting was a "special opportunity" for US- Canada- and Latin America-based professionals to participate in "discussions that will lead to development of the most efficient and streamlined PDF automation specifications".

Vicki Blake, GWG executive director and vice president of business development for Integrated Color Solutions, added: "The GWG has strong roots in Europe with growing US and worldwide participation and interest reflecting that the need for collaborative best practice PDF processes is global.

"The upcoming meeting is the perfect opportunity for organisations in the Americas to learn more about the work of GWG and provide input."

Attendees at the event will include Adobe, Adstream, Associated Newspapers, Hearst Publishing, Quebecor World and Specle.