ICPPR284A
Introduction to colour management

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify and apply the fundamental theory of colour in the printing industry. This includes terminology, colour modes and the analysis of light and colour.No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Application

This unit applies to the basic use of colour when creating layouts for individuals working in the printing and graphic arts sector.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Identify the need for colour management

1.1. The varied colour representation of devices are identified and recorded

1.2. Colour inconstancies between input, display and output devices and the final printed product are identified and rectified

1.3. The components of a colour management system are identified and suggestions made to improve workplace practices

2. Use colour modes and libraries

2.1. Varying colour modes and libraries are used according to job specifications

2.2. Images are converted between colour modes using a process to ensure the best reproduction according to job specifications

2.3. Colour libraries are selected and used within software applications according to job specifications

Required Skills

Required skills

occupational health and safety (OHS) in relation to using correct ergonomics when operating the computer

communicating ideas and information, having considered all the fundamentals of colour theory

collecting, analysing and organising skills in relation to the fundamentals of colour theory

planning and organising skills for identifying and clarifying colour requirements

teamwork skills for maintaining the production process in association with others

problem-solving skills for diagnosing and correcting colour problems

technical skills for using software and hardware correctly to ensure consistency of output

Required knowledge

components of a colour management system

terminology associated with colour management

standard lighting conditions for matching colour

effects different lighting conditions have on monitors, proofing and printing

measurement of light intensity and colour temperature

difference between red, blue, green (RGB), cyan, magenta, yellow, black (CMYK) and LAB colour

different rendering intents and their application

under colour removal (UCR) and grey component replacement (GCR) and what effect they have on an image

different Pantone libraries and their application

OHS issues needed to be considered when managing colour for digital production

Evidence Required

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:

identify the need and components of a colour management system

select and convert images to appropriate colour modes

select colour libraries that comply with specific job specifications

locate and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure:

that conditions are typical ambient conditions found in the workplace

access to relevant facilities, equipment and materials used for colour management production

use of culturally appropriate processes and techniques appropriate to the language and literacy capacity of learners and the work being performed.

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

third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate

practical demonstration by the candidate when converting images between colour modes.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other digital production units relevant to the workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

digital production or pre-press units that require the application of colour.

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.


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.

Devices may include:

monitors

proofers

printers

scanners

digital cameras

digital presses

printing presses.

Components may include:

standardised viewing environment

calibrated and profiled output devices, such as printers and presses

calibrated and profiled input devices, such as scanners and cameras

calibrated monitors

software applications that support colour management

colour profiles.

Workplace practices may include

establishment of colour managed workflow

calibration and regular recalibration of devices

adoption of recognised colour standard, such as AS ISO 12647-2.

Colour modes and libraries may include:

RGB

CMYK

LAB

Pantone.

Process may include:

selection of colour mode and rendering intent

converting using profiles.


Sectors

Unit sector


Competency Field

Printing


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.