The Independent Printing Industry Association is introducing a Powered by People framework to allow members to access best in class training, according to needs, objectives, delivery and assessment requirements.
It is the outcome of a brainstorming round table of the IPIA’s training and education sub committee which recognised the importance of training to many in the industry, but equally that there was little budget for it. The outcome was to create the new framework with Cotmandene Training and Development where highly experienced sales training consultant Jo Lloyd is a business coach. Canon Europe provided further support.
The framework helps members find training providers according to the needs of the business and its training requirements and how these should be met. Lloyd says: “Training should be viewed as intrinsic to the success of any business, regardless of size. The implementation of a structured framework, designed to identify learning and development needs across all staff, is motivational and just plain good business.”
There are four elements to the framework: identifying training needs, setting objectives for that training, understanding how it should be delivered and then assessing the success and impact on the business. The IPIA has produced a series of guides, tools and template which can be accessed via its website, without charge for its members.
The concept is to kick start a training ethos for many businesses that do not know where to start. This may lead to more bespoke training sessions which can also be arranged through Cotmandene.
Spectrum Plastics in Stockport became the pilot user over the summer. The trade printer has used both SM52 and digital presses to print on plastics. As a result of the programme the company is reevaluating the need for litho printing and how it can attract a younger workforce to underpin its future development.
Managing director Kath Doran says: “There were a few shocks, we’d never looked at things that way before. It really brought home what we needed to look at and give priority to. It showed us where we were vulnerable in our studio which led to us recruiting someone in July who was willing to cover all aspects of what we needed.
“It strongly identifies skillsets you’ve got and whether you need to bring in training. It demonstrates long-term commitment and future proofs your business. It brings everyone on board and is very positive, especially in these uncertain times.”
