Print processing system and method for sequentially performing first processing and second processing using a first device and a second device

Abstract

A CPU of an image forming apparatus, such as a color electrophotographic copying apparatus, reads print step information from a memory, such as a USB memory, that stores print image data and print step information relating to a plurality of print steps for producing a print of the print image data and a progress state of the print steps. The CPU updates the progress state of the print steps stored in the memory subsequent to the print step being performed by a printer in the image forming apparatus, displays a next print step to perform based on the read print step information, and controls the printer. The image forming apparatus thus avoids leaks of the print data, and prevents useless printing and erratic job processing. Thus, even an inexperienced operator can provide sophisticated high quality print service using the image forming apparatus.