July 11, 2003 -- The Society for Service Professionals in Printing (SSPP) and the Document Management Industries Association (DMIA) announce the latest e-learning education module on their distance learning site, Print University (www.printuniversity.org.) “Binding & Finishing Processes” is the newest distance learning module of “The School for Printing Specialists” distance learning section of The Print University. As binding and finishing are one of the most important cost issues in job production and planning – this module can be helpful to many different employees in the printing industry to ensure that production stays profitable within a plant. This school is designed specifically for: • Customer service representatives • Inside/outside printing sales representatives • Customer support specialists • Customer service managers/supervisors • Order entry specialists • Production planners and prepress personnel • Schedulers and estimators Print University has been operational for over two years and currently offers a total of 11 online modules. The University’s Internet model is asynchronous and audio based. Rather than some of the more mundane “read and click” types of e-learning programs, Print University sessions combine instructor audio with graphics, animation, pictures and charts to present 30-45 minute visual presentations. Students listen and watch the programs, which can be paused, reversed or rewound. The Print University also uses online quizzes and examinations. The program offers individual or group learning opportunities. Students use a blended learning approach that in addition to the online material, includes traditional reading assignments, CD's, samples of papers, forms, checks etc. and VHS videos to augment presentations. Page two Additional online modules are available on sales and customer service topics as well. “We have nationally known, professional speakers providing sessions as well,” says Lloyd Tucker, DMIA’s Senior Director of Education. The beauty of this type of program is that it offers companies a “guest speaker” for a staff or sales meeting, without paying the high prices of bringing them to your location. According to Tucker, Print University is currently working on at least 7 more modules supporting the graphic arts industry and the sales and customer service professions. “The Print University approach is relatively unique in the e-learning world because of the heavy graphic and visual support. The student can devote his full attention to the presentation online”, says Tucker. “It is like watching a video with a interactive quiz at the end. And since it is asynchronous, students can watch the sessions over and over until they get it.” Not only does online training with Print University eliminate the need for offsite travel, but it also allows management an interactive role in developing their employees skills in a self paced, structured course. “With the role of the Sales and Customer Service representative growing within a company, the need for training is an integral developmental tool for meeting client’s changing business requirements,” says Denise Pons, Director, SSPP. The Print University affords them top notch training while working in their own plant or office.