Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - The Offset & Beyond conference offered members of the print world a chance to mingle and discuss common problems, solutions, and what the future holds for the industry.

While printers continue to deal with the rippling of an unsettling economy, a printer making a profit is still incredibly feasible. There are a few key ideas that were discussed during Michael Murphy's "Print Executive Outlook" session:

- Leaders, with drive, cunning, and convictions are needed to steer the company into the profitable future.
- Backing up that leader must be a team of enthusiastic "A" players. No room for "C" players.
- Focus on process improvement through Lean and Computer Integrated Manufacturing that creates a workplace of clarity and focus.

On hand as living proof that leadership and a strong team works was D. Michael Abrashoff, former Navy commander and author of It's Your Ship. D. Michael Abrashoff told the inspiring story of how the USS Benfold was transformed into one of the greatest ships in the Navy by empowering the crew to take ownership and improve every aspect of the way things were done.

Two incredible speakers reiterated how important print was in this culture and that they wouldn't be where they are today without it. First, Honorable Kevin McCarthy, U.S. House of Representatives, thanked the print industry because communication was the key to his political success. He then went on to recommend four very important books (The World Is Flat, From Good to Great, Money Ball, and The Forgotten Man) that challenge people to think differently about their business and the world economy.

Jeffrey Hayzlett, chief marketing officer for Eastman Kodak Company and author of the newly released The Mirror Test, summarized the important points of his book and how business owners can ensure that their business is thriving. He emphasized the need to have proper leadership that can cause productive tension, build a team of efficient workers, and set the right mood. He closed by saying that print is emotional and that printers need to keep printing and selling emotion.

Following Jeff Hayzlett, Bill Gibson, vice president of sales for Trico, moderated a panel about the truth behind "Do Not Mail." Panelists included Lisbeth Lyons, vice president, Government Affairs, Printing Industries of America, and Peter Nowack, founder of Print Leadership. They discussed the issues surrounding "Do Not Mail" and how major certification programs (FSC, SFI) affect the printing industry.

Ben Cooper, executive director, The Print Council, punctuated the conference by reminding everyone how important and viable print will continue to be in the coming years in his session, "The Case for Print."

Awards
While much of the program was geared toward the future of print, attendees took the time to honor the trailblazers and leaders in the industry.

The Harry V. Quadracci VISION Award was given out to James Andersen, president and CEO, IWCO Direct. Andersen graciously accepted the award and thanked his staff and the many people who introduced him to the print world and mentored him along the way.

Scott Robinson was this year's H. Howard Flint Pressroom Professional of the Year Award winner. Robinson is first web press operator at the John Roberts Company. The H. Howard Flint Pressroom Professional of the Year Award is conferred on a pressroom professional who has excelled in their profession and contributed above and beyond to their company, customers, and the printing industry.

In addition, Marty Anson, Jerry Nocar, Jack Rickard, Peter Broustis and Aaron Silberman were inducted into the BIA Hall of Fame Tuesday during the 2010 Offset & Beyond Conference.