Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to correctly select and use a variety of software applications to efficiently produce a standard job.
It applies to skilled individuals working in digital production who are responsible for digital production workflow and who apply a broad range of competencies in a varied work context. They use some discretion and judgement, and relevant technical knowledge, and provide technical advice and support to others.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Select and assess software | 1.1 Publication requirements of layout brief are determined to align with digital production processes and feasibility 1.2 Range of software applications is selected according to job specifications 1.3 Appropriate software applications are used to complete components of the job according to manufacturer's specifications and enterprise standards |
2. Arrange elements on page | 2.1 Client copy and images are assembled to conform to the design brief 2.2 Text is prepared and required fonts and font size are applied 2.3 Basic elements and images are created and arranged on the page to conform to the design brief 2.4 Image resolution and colour mode are determined according to job specifications, help function is accessed, if required, and solutions to queries found 2.5 Document set-up is completed to conform to the design brief and job specifications |
3. Check quality | 3.1 Text is reviewed for possible errors and omissions, and errors are discussed with client or supervisor 3.2 Basic elements are arranged to adhere with design principles 3.3 Copy is proofed and rechecked for errors, omissions and overall layout design 3.4 Necessary changes are made and reviewed and re-proofed as required 3.5 Job is saved according to enterprise procedures |
4. Use RIP to output job | 4.1 Layout is imported into a raster image processor (RIP) or front-end processor according to workplace procedures 4.2 Layout is produced according to job specifications and enterprise standards |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
correctly use TWO software applications to prepare and produce two different sets of layouts according to enterprise standards and job specifications.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
list different processes used in digital production
describe colour modes and how they affect output
outline how image resolution is governed by output resolution and/or viewing distance
describe various software applications and their usages in relation to digital production
identify how job specifications determine typeface selection and the effect typefaces have on readability
explain design principles, such as hierarchy, emphasis, contrast, alignment, repetition and flow
describe how to select and manipulate type within a layout application, and image manipulation techniques including basic colour correction
describe how to create basic vector shapes with an application
outline different colour modes and their uses
outline preflighting procedures and various ways to import a job into a RIP
identify location of manuals, safety and other documentation relevant to high-end software applications for digital production.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the printing field of work and include access to:
special purpose tools, equipment and materials
RIP or front-end processor.
Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1-1.3, 2.1, 2.3-2.5, 3.1, 4.2 | Recognises and interprets text to establish job requirements from information contained within relevant procedures and specifications |
Writing | 2.2, 3.1 | Enters routine data associated with production processes and enterprise procedures |
Oral Communication | 3.1 | Speaks clearly using appropriate vocabulary, tone and pace to report faults and discrepancies |
Navigate the world of work | 1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.5, 4.1, 4.2 | Recognises and follows explicit and implicit protocols and meets expectations associated with own role |
Interact with others | 1.1-1.3, 2.4, 2.5, 3.1, 4.2 | Understands what to communicate, with whom and how, in routine work situations |
Get the work done | 1.2, 1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.2-3.5, 4.1, 4.2 | Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload making design choices as appropriate Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems in familiar work contexts Utilises a broad range of features within applications to improve personal productivity, optimising software functions for specific purposes |
Sectors
Printing