ARLINGTON, Va. (February 15, 2006) — Print Communications Professionals International (PCPI), the premier association dedicated to print buyers, in partnership with Print Buyers Online.com, a free, educational e-community for print buyers, announced the launch of their Professional Print Production Certification programs today. The primary mission of PCPI (www.pcpi.org) is to develop and conduct certified training programs for major print media buyers and specifiers. These certified programs help PCPI members gain skills to improve the effectiveness of their print campaigns and to work with their suppliers more efficiently. This also aids buying companies by saving time and money through better return on investment (ROI) with their print campaigns. PCPI believes that their in-depth, professional certification programs will not only significantly help major buyers understand the opportunities for using proven business practices and technologies, but will also help establish a "best of breed" print buyer. Suzanne Morgan, president and founder of PCPI and Print Buyers Online.com, commented, “This is an extraordinary opportunity for print buyers to receive valuable education that enables them to save significant time and money for their organizations. Not only is this a huge benefit for the buying company, but it also elevates the certified buyer, as well as the profession of print buying.” The certification program format is currently being developed to accommodate varied learning styles. The initial phase of the PCPI certification programs will encompass a blended format of printed workbooks, self-study resources, monitored testing and elective seminars to aid in the acquisition of knowledge. PCPI will conduct beta testing of each of their programs with top print buyers to ensure the highest quality education. Types of Print Production Certification Programs offered: • Professional Print Production Certification Designed for novice print buyers who have worked in the print production or communications field for two or fewer years. Also recommended for seasoned print buyers that wish to complete professional level print production training. • Advanced Professional Print Production Certification Designed for individuals who have worked in the print production or communications field for two years or more. • Specialized Professional Print Production Certifications - Digital and Variable Data Printing - Paper - Color Management The first self-study course is titled, “How to Buy Digital and Variable Data Printing” with a targeted release date of April 2006. Additionally, for the first time this year, attendance at most of the Print Oasis 2006 Print Buyers Conference & Exhibit seminars will count towards the certification programs. Interested parties are invited to visit www.printoasis.com to review descriptions for elective seminars that count towards certification. For complete details about these Professional Print Production Certification programs including certification completion requirements, a list of elective seminars currently available, flexible participation options and fee information, please visit: http://www.printbuyersonline.com/PrintOasisContent.asp?ID=2800