Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to undertake digital proofing.

Application of the unit 

This unit requires the individual to calibrate equipment and complete digital proofing for client sign off.

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Calibrate proofing device

1.1. The calibration of the machine is checked for conformance to job specifications

1.2. Appropriate ICC profiles are applied to meet colour requirements

1.3. Paper for output  is matched to profile

2. Produce proofs from digital data

2.1. The image is retrieved from the database using industry software

2.2. Data file is checked for structural compatibility with capability of RIP

2.3. Special colours are sent to the RIP where appropriate

2.4. Proof is produced according to job specifications and workflow procedures

2.5. Proof is evaluated against job specifications using a densitometer, and checked against changes and original working data

2.6. Proof is prepared for client submission

2.7. Proof is used as a contract proof only if RIP is the same for both proof and film and if client accepts it as such

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

• OHS in relation to operating machinery such as safely switching off machinery before cleaning is started
• communication of ideas and information by gaining client agreement on contract proof
• collecting, analysing and organising information by checking machine calibration
• planning and organising activities by calibrating the proofing device prior to producing a proof
• teamwork when maintaining the production process in association with others
• mathematical ideas and techniques by using a densitometer to evaluate the proof
• problem-solving skills by checking the data file for structural compatibility
• use of technology by using relevant hardware and software to produce a digital proof

Required knowledge 

• method of producing the colour image
• variations that may occur when utilising different imaging methods
• outputting the image and production of a colour proof, i.e. the transfer of files and the use of specific assembly software
• constraints on file structure that can the RIP impose
• an ICC profile
• differences that can different RIPs have on output
• use of a densitometer for proof evaluation
• calibration software for the output device
• colour evaluation charts
• criteria for evaluating a colour proof
• differences that can there be between preliminary proofs and a contract proof
• manuals, safety and other documentation that are relevant to this task and where are they kept and information that is included in these documents
• other sources of information that are available

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment 

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Evidence of the ability to:

• the underlying skills of proofing should be transferable across the design and pre-press sectors. It is important that the substrate for reproduction is identified and that the quality of the image be suitable for the printing process
• demonstrate an ability to find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources
• for valid and reliable assessment of this unit, evidence should be gathered over a period of time through a range of methods for assessment to indicate consistent performance
• evidence for assessment may be gathered from assessment of the unit of competency alone or through an integrated assessment activity.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment must ensure:

• assessment may take place on the job, off the job or a combination of both. Off the job assessment must be undertaken in a closely simulated workplace environment
• it is expected that special purpose tools, equipment and industry software packages will be used where appropriate.

Method of assessment 

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

• direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate.

Guidance information for assessment 

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Output  may include:

• laser and inkjet proofing systems, using standard copier materials or specially prepared substrate.

Input  may include:

• a variety of electronic image files.

Capture  may include:

• variety of digital colour output devices.

Manipulation /edit  may include:

• software and hardware functions.

Quality standards  may include:

• should meet client requirements and enterprise and industry standards.

Unit sector 

Competency field 

Pre-press

Co-requisite units