ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 2 -- Kodak customers from the commercial printing, publishing, newspaper, data center, in plant, and creative markets gathered for information sharing, educational sessions and networking events at the 2007 Graphic Users Association (GUA) North American Conference.  The event occurred May 30 to June 2, at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix.
Digital printing, mailing and TransPromo communications were new topics added to the more than 90 sessions that took place during four days. Guest speakers from Adobe, Apple, Business Resource Services, Four51 and the Direct Marketing Association made informational presentations.
Other highlights included a full day of Kodak’s Network Symposium. The Symposium, which was also held at the AIIM ON DEMAND Exposition, gives attendees information and ideas about services and applications they can offer to expand their revenue opportunities. Kodak’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Antonio M. Perez delivered a keynote address on the company’s commitment to helping customers meet the challenges of redefining the graphic arts.
“The GUA conference is a great avenue for users to voice their needs to Kodak, and the value of networking with peers is reason enough to attend,” said Jim Gronwall, Prepress Manager, Dual Graphics.
Jim Coffey, Director of Production Technology for Bolger Publications, Inc., commented, “The event was very informative. Kodak listened to the feedback from customers at last year’s GUA conference and used that information to further develop its products.”
According to Kevin Joyce, Managing Director, United States and Canada, Kodak’s Graphic Communications Group (GCG), GUA conference attendees complimented Kodak on its products, the integration of the GCG, and a willingness to listen to customer needs. Joyce also appreciated the candid opinions that attendees offered on opportunities for improvement.
“The GUA is a unique opportunity for Kodak to engage with our customers on a strategic level to understand what we’re doing right and learn how we can better serve them in the future,” said Joyce. “Our customers were pleased with the progress Kodak has made in the development of our products, and they look forward to working with us to create future products and solutions that enhance their business results.”
GUA conferences are planned for Japan, Europe and China later this year.