ICPPRP325
Create graphics using a graphics application


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop graphics incorporating a range of features for cross-media publishing based on a client brief, using a high-end application.

For this unit, the knowledge and skills cover selecting, adapting and transferring skills and knowledge to new environments, and providing technical advice and some leadership in resolution of specific problems.

It applies to individuals who perform a range of roles in a variety of contexts with some complexity in the extent and choice of options available.

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 Balance image quality and file size

1.1 Graphics files are opened and design brief requirements are confirmed

1.2 Graphics are repeated efficiently using a symbol or stamp to reduce file size

1.3 Slices are created from objects, layers or groups and updated as required

1.4 Type anti-aliasing is applied selectively to keep small text easy to read

1.5 Tasks are automated wherever possible and, where necessary, scripts are used for automation

2 Manipulate objects

2.1 Objects and text are manipulated and edited as required

2.2 Elements are defined for repetition, repetition tools are used to create duplicates and then are manipulated as a group

2.3 Complex shapes are created by combining shapes into compounds and, if required, compounds are edited

3 Import images

3.1 Bitmap images are embedded and/or linked in the file

3.2 Placed Bitmaps are modified and/or duplicated depending on design requirements

3.3 Bitmaps are masked and/or an opacity mask is added

3.4 Layered file is exported to image editing program for editing

4 Develop variable templates

4.1. Based on the design brief, objects are defined within the template as variables

4.2 Automated script or image server is used to ensure variations, using data stored in any Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) compliant source

4.3 Template variables are tested to ensure correct operation

5 Colour separate artwork

5.1 Correct colour separation format is determined by requirements of the pre-press workflow system

5.2 Command preferences are set correctly for print quality and process

5.3 Based on printer feedback, colour separation options are set according to print requirements of the design brief

5.4 Process and spot colours are combined, if required

5.5 Screen frequency value appropriate for the print quality is selected and colour separation preferences are saved

5.6 Spreads and chokes traps are created to avoid mis-registration

5.7 Overlapping and overprint of objects are defined

5.8 Proof is created and separations checked, any required editing is completed and file is saved

6 Prepare for final media

6.1 Metadata tags are embedded to catalogue, organise and retrieve artwork

6.2 For cross-media publishing purposes, web-safe colours are selected

6.3 File formats are chosen to best represent artwork styles

6.4 Objects are linked to create an image map meeting design requirements

6.5 Objects are layered to create animation frames and exported for animation set-up

6.6 Compression options are selected to keep image quality high and file size low

6.7 Export options are set for the final media and the file is saved and exported

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

develop graphics incorporating a range of features for cross-media publishing based on a client brief using a high-end application

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

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:

describe image formats

explain use of scripting languages

explain how to manipulate text and apply formatting

describe how to draw shapes

explain how to manipulate images

explain design principles which should be applied when creating graphics

explain profiles

outline considerations of colour management.


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 Pre-Press field of work and include access to special purpose tools, equipment and industry software packages.

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, 2.1, 4.1, 5.3, 6.4

Recognises and interprets text to establish job requirements from information contained within relevant procedures and specifications

Numeracy

5.5

Interprets and analyses a range of mathematical information used in familiar and routine tasks

Get the work done

1.1-1.5, 2.1-2.3, 3.1-3.4, 4.1-4.3, 5.1, 5.3-5.8, 6.1-6.7

Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload and assembles resources required

Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems in familiar work contexts

Follows routine procedures for using digital technology by reading data from electronic monitoring and control systems

Utilises a broad range of features within digital applications optimising software functions to achieve requirements


Sectors

Pre-Press