Create JDF job definitions

You can create new JDF job definitions in a variety of ways using the JDF Job Definitions dialog box. Each resulting JDF file can be edited and used in a production environment. Commercial printers who routinely print certain types of jobs may find it useful to create several JDF files that match these job types, and use them as templates. Using a template saves time and avoids costly mistakes, but may not be appropriate for every job. Before you construct a new job definition from scratch, review existing job definitions for ones that achieve results similar to what you want.

  1. In the JDF Job Definitions dialog box, click New.
  2. Select a method of creating a new job definition:
    Option Description
    New

    Creates a blank job definition.
    Based On The Document

    Uses the properties of a currently open PDF, such as size and number of pages. Select a document from the list on the right, which displays the names of files currently open in Acrobat.
    Based On The Job Definition

    Creates a copy of an existing job definition with all its properties, including the list of referenced files. Be sure that the page content is changed before you proceed with the rest of your workflow. If you select this option, a list of available job definitions for your selection appears to the right, which shows a list of JDF files present in the JDF Job Definitions dialog box.
  3. Specify which version of the JDF specification your job definition will be compatible with.
    Note: The default is 1.2. This option is not available if Based On The Job Definition is selected in step 2. In this case, the version is the same as that of the selected job definition.
  4. Click Browse to specify the name and location, and then click Save.
  5. In the Create New Job Definition dialog box, click Create (or Create And Edit to display the specifications for modification).