Alexandria, VA----For almost 50 years, two associations—DMIA and the International Association for Document Technologies (formerly International Business Forms Association)—have represented the forms and business printing industry. Now, as a result of industry maturity and evolution, one association will unite the industry and work to meet member needs. In recent years, the boards of directors of both associations have directed DMIA and IADT staff to develop joint programs such as the "Solutions" series of educational seminars for manufacturers and suppliers. The boards also held several discussions on merging the two associations. This year, both boards agreed that the best way to meet the needs of both memberships was to offer services through one association. In a near unanimous vote last month, the members of the IADT decided to dissolve their association and halt operations on Jan. 20. Most IADT members are also DMIA members. About 20 non-DMIA members will be allowed to test DMIA's services. The IADT membership also approved a transfer of IADT's educational foundation to the Document Management Industries Association (DMIA). The foundation's activities will be directed by a board of trustees consisting of DMIA members and former IADT members who have become DMIA members. The foundation's executive director is Peter Colaianni, CAE, DMIA's executive vice president. The foundation will reach out to the distributor, manufacturer and supplier communities to offer educational programming, industry research and market studies. "The business printing industry is now united under one association and better able to assist member companies throughout the printing industry supply chain, from supplier to manufacturer to distributor" announced Gail O'Roke, CDC, DMIA's President.