Abstract: The operation of a document distribution network having one or more input work stations, a linking network with one or more nodes and one or more output work stations, is controlled by a job control sheet. The job control sheet is partitioned into a plurality of control zones. Each zone contains dedicated marked sense information for controlling the input work stations, the network nodes and the output work stations. The input work station includes a marked sense recognition device which coacts with the job control sheet to identify the presence or absence of the control zones. Marked sense information which is associated with the input station control zones is extracted and utilized to control the input work station. The marked sense information which is associated with network nodes control zone is encoded and transmitted with identifying marks to the network nodes for further processing.