Executive Updates
SGIA ’08: Three and a Half Days of Creative Inspiration
(Wed, Apr 30, 08)
SGIA understands the challenge of today’s fast-paced business environment. That’s why we’re crafting SGIA ’08 (Atlanta; October 15-18, 2008) to be the one-stop educational resource and marketplace for the progressive printer or imager.
One Step Back, Three Steps Forward!
(Fri, Mar 21, 08)
A good idea can start with anyone. But what happens once the idea is on the table? Does it hit immediate resistance because it’s different? Is there a knee-jerk reaction to judge the idea based on who put it on the table? In an innovative culture, once a good idea is hatched, it quickly weaves its way into other departments of the organization.
Building a Framework for Innovation
(Thu, Feb 14, 08)
In today’s marketplace, the successful graphics producers are constantly striving for maximum innovation. They are persistent in their search for the next competitive edge. They see the need for innovative enhancement throughout all aspects of their business.
When Quality Isn't Enough
(Fri, Jan 04, 08)
Changing from a production business model to a service model means re-purposing people. If the workers don’t change, the company doesn’t change. To be successful, employees must buy into new corporate values; including rules, methodologies and goals.
SGIA ’07 – A Turning Point for the Printing and Imaging Community
(Fri, Nov 30, 07)
New boundaries within the printing community are being driven by the expanding price range and increasingly diverse capabilities of digital imaging solutions. For example, high production imaging equipment and the ability to print on a wider range of media and substrate will create segmentation
The Value of Creativity
(Thu, Oct 18, 07)
The increased value of creativity as a marketable skill within the community is a very positive step. Selling creative services helps fend off commoditization.
SGIA - Innovation through Diversity
(Tue, Sep 11, 07)
As the pace of change increases, it becomes easier to see that innovation doesn't follow a linear path. Successful innovators want to see what's happening outside of their market. They want the benefit of diversity.
The SGIA Community Reaches Out in Support of New Orleans
(Wed, Jul 18, 07)
For complete details on this effort, visit the New Orleans Canal St. Initiative page. Here you will find photos of each site, the current list of volunteers and preliminary specifications for each installation. You will also find contact information if you would like to discuss participating in the effort.
Digital Equipment Evaluations — A New Service for SGIA Members
(Mon, Jun 18, 07)
The new Digital Equipment Evaluations use a common set of data points and test images to compare and contrast similar output devices.
The Growing Value of Analytics
(Fri, May 11, 07)
We’re all looking ahead, concentrating on the next big thing, anticipating future developments. But even in a rapidly changing marketplace, where you’ve been can tell you a lot about where you’re going.
Internet for Sale?
(Thu, Apr 05, 07)
One the biggest challenges to the Internet as we know it is the question of ownership. Different companies own pieces and parts of the Internet, but no one entity has responsible for the Internet itself.
Customerization, Part 2: The Journey Continues
(Wed, Feb 28, 07)
The customer-centric way of doing business is very different from past business models, in which technology defined the printer's role in the marketplace. Such a dramatic change in business philosophy is a culture shock for some.
The Corporate Left Brain-Right Brain Conundrum
(Sat, Jan 27, 07)
The optimal situation is a having the ability to capture new markets and effectively maximize opportunities. But, achieving left brain-right brain balance is easier said than done.
Selling Sustainability
(Tue, Dec 19, 06)
As a society, we're growing increasingly concerned with environmental issues and reducing unfavorable impacts on the planet. That concern is reflected in the retail marketplace, with the increased value we're placing on products with a "sustainable" pedigree.
Customerization
(Mon, Nov 20, 06)
In a product-centric business, your goal is to find as many customers as possible to buy (and use) your product. In a customer-centric business, the goal is to find as many solutions as possible that address the needs of your customers.
A Milestone for the Specialty Graphics Community
(Mon, Oct 16, 06)
Walking the busy aisles of the SGIA Expo is always an education; but this year's SGIA'06 Expo was something special. At every turn, in every direction, you could feel the energy and the sense the excitement.
It's Like Money in the Bank
(Thu, Sep 14, 06)
A small business buying less than $430,000 worth of equipment in one year, can take up to a $108,000 deduction immediately, without multi-year depreciation. That's huge!
A Good Planet is Hard to Find
(Mon, Aug 14, 06)
The specialty graphics community is actively developing technologies and business practices that will contribute to our future success while acting responsibly in light of our ecological challenges.
China: A Reality Check
(Fri, Jul 14, 06)
If I had to choose one word to describe the specialty graphics community in China it would be "enthusiastic." They've had a great deal of success and they are eager for more. But, as is often the case, new challenges come hand in hand with success.
Picking the Right Ink System is Critical to Success
(Mon, Jun 12, 06)
Deciding on an ink system involves evaluating the ink's capabilities in regard to your current business needs and your future plans.
Retailers Combine In-store and Online Technology
(Fri, May 12, 06)
As retailers try to merge the best of the brick-and-mortar buying experience with the best of virtual shopping, expect to see more kiosks and dynamic display panels together in stores.
Just Say NO to Commoditization
(Wed, Apr 12, 06)
In our community of specialty graphic printers and suppliers, perhaps the biggest challenge on the horizon is commoditization.
Reverse Auctions: Lose-Lose Propositions
(Fri, Mar 17, 06)
It's easy to see why reserve auctions look like a great idea to buyers trying to lower their costs. Putting suppliers in a highly competitive position can drive down margins. But the auctions aren't delivering the true saving buyers expected, and the long-term effects of reverse auctions can mean serious problems for both buyers and suppliers.
Managing for Success
(Thu, Feb 16, 06)
For specialty graphics producers, the need for effective management is stronger than ever. While effective management touches the entire organization, here are two key areas where good management is needed.
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