By Noel Ward, Executive Editor November 8, 2006 -- It used to be that most print providers who had cracked the code on variable data printing wouldn't tell anyone about it, fearing their competition would use the knowledge against them. But now that the competition is as likely to come from another time zone as from an adjoining Zip Code, it's vital to learn what other companies are doing and apply those ideas and techniques to your own customer base. That is what the PIA/GATF Variable Data and Personalization Conference is all about. This year’s conference is about building on what you already know and uncovering ideas for making the most of VDP. It’s about seeing how others have turned their own struggles into success stories--for themselves and for their customers. And it’s about unlocking the true potential of this evolving technology. You'll learn about liability and security, how to define customer needs, mailing and database issues, cross-media programs, and the all-important step of tracking results to prove the power of VDP. Not only that, the Web-to-Print Symposium is taking place at the same venue on Sunday, November 12. If you're curious about web-to-print, this is an excellent way to begin getting your head around this important new technology that is certain to transform the way you interact with your customers. Don't wait for our coverage here on WTT and ODJ. There are still hotel rooms available, airfares are reasonable, and most meals are included in the conference fee. Come to the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona November 12-14 to hear how print providers and their customers are reaping the benefits of innovative VDP campaigns and how you can crack the code on VDP success.