Our mission is to extend the work of the Ghent Workgroup (GWG) specifications, which initially focused on validating the printable content of PDF files and enabling reliable, predictable exchange of print-ready PDFs. We have since expanded that work to address the specific needs of packaging production, where a PDF contains more than just the content intended to appear in the final print. It may also include information required for cutting, creasing, folding, varnishing, Braille, and other production and finishing processes. Furthermore, the final product may be three-dimensional or otherwise more complex than a flat printed page.

To address these needs, we initiated the development of what is now known as Processing Steps, subsequently standardized as ISO 19593-1. This standard defines a consistent, vendor-neutral way to associate production-step information with content in a PDF file. It supports the reliable exchange of packaging files between different systems and provides a foundation for more efficient workflow automation.

To encourage adoption and ensure consistent implementations, we also develop test suites that vendors and other industry participants can use to verify that their software and PDF files correctly implement the standard.

Finally, the knowledge and experience gained through this work feed back into the GWG specifications, helping refine the requirements, validation rules, and checks that ensure PDF files meet the needs of real-world production workflows.