Pittsburgh, Pa. – Printing Industries of America (PIA) Center for Print Economics and Management and the Department of Management at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) are partnering on a new Management Study exploring recruiting, hiring, and human resources best practices throughout the printing and graphic communications industry.

This study will address a common concern among printing industry leaders: the ability to recruit, hire, and adequately staff their firms. With the country's economy continuing to grow and the print market remaining strong, the study aims to answer: "Why is staffing such an issue?"

"Labor markets are heating up along with the economy. The unemployment rate at 4.1 percent is near the historic low, hiring is on the upswing with 200,000 new jobs added in January, labor force participation rates are creeping up, and wages are finally edging higher after a long period of relative stability," said Dr. Ron Davis, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, Center for Print Economics and Management. "While all of this is good news, it does raise issues for printers that are looking for workers."

The survey and subsequent Management Study will give printers insight into the best recruiting, hiring, and human resources practices. The project explores the relationship between human resources practices, profitability, and other key performance metrics. Survey participants will receive a comprehensive report of the findings.

The survey is now open and can be accessed at this link. For more information about the Center for Print Economics and Management or the survey, please contact Dr. Ronnie Davis at [email protected].