Pittsburgh, Pa., April 25, 2002 - To help printers operate more productively and process more jobs in the current lean economy, the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF) has developed a new workshop to teach the essential information on estimating, scheduling, and production planning. Being held August 14–16, 2002, this introductory course will provide job planners and estimators with the fundamentals for a solid understanding of the variables in this process. Estimating, Scheduling, and Production Planning combines hands-on exercises with estimating theory, techniques, and tools. The use of MIS systems in today’s workflow is covered, as well as development of budgeted hourly rates. Demonstrations will be held in GATF’s pressroom, bindery and Bassemir Ink and Kronenberg Paper Lab. "Estimate a product too high and no one will buy it. Estimate it too low and you will win a sundry to jobs, but your company will lose money," says Richard T. Wagner, who will lead the workshop. "The key to making money is knowing what it costs to produce something." With past experience at commercial printing facilities, Wagner coordinates the complex schedule for print production, press testing, and program demonstrations at GATF. Because a majority of production materials at GATF are donated or provided for special research projects, he faces unique challenges such as inconsistency of ink and paper supplies. Likewise he must consider pertinent staff and equipment being used for GATF training courses while scheduling production. Wagner hears of many people who were promoted to the role of estimator or have assumed the responsibility but did not receive formal training in the practice. "You really need to be familiar with all aspects of the process, but too often the estimator’s knowledge is limited to his or her previous area of expertise," he says. "This introductory workshop is will cover how to derive costs and help people establish an infrastructure for using those figures." A new three-day workshop, Estimating, Scheduling, and Production Planning will be offered for $995 ($795 for GATF/PIA members). For more information about this workshop or any GATF workshop, contact Sara Hantz, GATF workshop coordinator, by phoning 800/910-GATF ext. 113.