Status of TIFF/IT.

TIFF/IT is the abbreviation for ANSI Standard IT8.8-1993, Graphic technology - Prepress digital data exchange - Tag image file format for image technology (TIFF/IT). It emerged in the late 80s, in response to the need to move the data structures of the earlier magnetic tape based IT8 standards into a media independent form. After the initial work and standards were completed, in ANSI/IT8 the continuing discussions were moved to ISO/TC130. In moving this work forward within ISO, an important addition was made which is referred to as the P1 profile compliance level. The ISO version of TIFF/IT, ISO 12639 which carries the same title as the ANSI/IT8.8 standard, has just completed the ISO approval process and is awaiting publication. Vendor implementation, which is now widespread, has been greatly assisted by the support and endorsement of the DDAP (Digital Distribution of Advertising for Publications) Association. In ISO/TC130, Working Group 2 is currently reviewing additional concerns and it is anticipated that an addendum will be prepared to further enhance the FP (Final Page) option. FP is used to relate the various files necessary to describe a completed page and is proving to be very important in the exchange of print-ready page material.