Pittsburgh, Pa., November 20, 2002 — Critical in this difficult economic and competitive climate, printing executives and quality managers need to locate and successfully implement new initiatives for increasing quality and reducing cost. Designed to address these topics, the Continuous Improvement Network (CIN) conference will be held at the Hotel InterContinental in Chicago, Illinois, February 23–26, 2003. Sponsored by the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF) for 13 years, the CIN conference is one of the Foundation’s highest rated events. “Companies that attend the CIN conference are among the most progressive, most profitable companies in the industry,” said Jim Workman, GATF’s director of training programs. “For example, companies attending in 2002 had an average profit margin almost 75 percent above the industry. Several of these successful companies will share candid and commercial-free case studies at the conference so that their peers may learn the practical experiences in implementing continuous improvement programs.” Companies presenting 11 of the conference’s case studies include SPG Graphics, Smyth Companies, Seven Worldwide, Action Printing, Medical Arts Press, Gulf States Paper, Litho-Krome, and Banta Book Group. Attendees will be able to choose four of the 11 case studies. Three keynote presentations will feature speakers who are on the cutting edge of quality innovations. * Rebecca Potts of LaMarsh & Associates will provide an understanding of the change process and will examine the factors critical to successfully implementing a change in strategies, structure, systems, and processes. Ms. Potts will teach how to identify the probable sources of resistance and develop strategies to manage that resistance. * LaRhesa Pollock of Clarke American will describe the quality system that led to the company’s 2001 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. Clarke American is the third printing-related company to win the award since its inception. * John Compton of Fort Dearborn Company will share his insights on the differences between “structural” change and “cultural” change and why one without the other will slow the rate of improvement. Compton will explain his philosophy of “the power of one” and why all change begins with one individual’s decisions and actions. In addition, the conference will include networking opportunities and three general sessions, including one simulated work experience that will provide an in-depth look at how to “manage change” from a corporate and personal level. An optional plant tour of the Ford Motors Chicago Assembly Plant, winner of the 2002 Shingo Prize for excellence in manufacturing, is also being offered. Early bird registration fee for the two-day conference is $795 ($595 for GATF/PIA members). All companies can receive a $100 discount on their second registrant. For more information and to register or contact Gwen Martin, GATF conference coordinator, by phoning 800/910-GATF extension 116.