May 25, 2004 -- (WhatTheyThink.com - Special comments by Cary Sherburne) -- Having just returned from drupa, I find myself looking forward to attending the IPA Technical Seminar June 8-10 in Chicago (www.ipa.org/tech). It was exciting to see all of the new technology unveiled at drupa, and I believe many of the things we saw there will make a big difference to our industry over the next couple of years. The Technical Seminar will be a good place to get a summary of all of the exciting developments. I am also looking forward to two other aspects of the Technical Seminar: 1. The second annual Color Proofing RoundUP will provide us with a fact-based assessment of the wonderful color proofing technologies available in the market today. Of course, every vendor says their solution is the best ... but the efforts of independent organizations like IPA keep us honest and provide excellent guidelines and feedback for graphic arts service providers who are ready to buy in to new color proofing solutions. This is an important service to an industry that is coming off of a very tough couple of years. If drupa is any indication, service providers are buying again, but they are more careful than ever before with precious investment dollars and in dire need of this type of independent assessment. 2. Unlike many of our industry’s events, the IPA Technical Seminar speakers are technology users, not technology manufacturers. They will be sharing their insight on the way they are deploying technology in their own organizations, and including lessons learned and visions of the future. My favorite topic is "Workflow on a Shoestring," presented by Bill Whitfield, Director of Corporate Prepress for MPI Labels—an example of the type of practical, unbiased, useful information attendees will garner from the Management and Technology tracks featured in the Seminar. In the spirit of full disclosure, I will be facilitating two panels on Content Management, one in the Management Track and one in the Technology Track. I have pulled together two strong panels, representing a range of small to large companies, both IPA members and non-members. And while I have had a sneak peek at what most of them will say, I am looking forward to hearing—and learning —more from these industry veterans. For busy professionals looking for down-to-earth advice, networking opportunities, and some time away from the shop to think about the future, this event may be just the ticket. I hope to see you there. For more information visit www.ipa.org/tech