The quality analysis today consists of a total of 98 quality parameters that are analysed. These quality parameters are drawn from the following ISO standards: 12647, 5-3, 5-4, 2846-2, 12635, 3664 and 15930.

This year, WAN-IFRA Senior Consultant Moritz Schwarz has brought the following certification processes to a successful conclusion:

• Alyaum in Dammam, Saudi-Arabia,
• Masar Printing and Publishing in Dubai, United Arab Emirates,
• Prensa Libre in Guatemala City, Guatemala, and
• Premier Printing Group Ltd. in Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong

WAN-IFRA certification consists of an evaluation of printing quality based on measurements taken during monthly printing tests carried out over a six-month period, an audit in the printing plant as well as a visual assessment of the general printing quality. The audit includes a workflow analysis, exposure tests and the production of a test print carried out in the presence of the auditor who also does the evaluation. The certification is valid for two years and can be renewed. Many printing companies use the certification for marketing purposes, though most participants consider the internal training of their personnel to be the main benefit.

Following its successful renewed certification in February 2011 (the first certification goes back as far as 2007), Alyaum became the first printing company based in the Middle East to achieve membership of the "Star Club". Membership of the Start Club represents a special recognition for all those who have obtained at least five Star Club stars. Successful participation in the International Newspaper Color Quality Club competition is rewarded with one star; a printing operation can acquire two stars by achieving WAN-IFRA certification.