PIA/GATF Center for Lean Practices Formed

PITTSBURGH, Pa.—The Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF) has formed a Center for Lean Practices to help members implement lean manufacturing practices. The center will provide consulting, training, publications, and a speaker’s bureau.

The association reports that printers are increasingly recognizing the power of applying quality systems to their operations in an effort to reduce defects, expose wasted resources, and improve throughput. Lean manufacturing is one way for members to meet client demands for faster turnaround, and stay cost competitive while protecting profit margins, according to PIA/GATF. Lean’s focus on driving out waste is also seen as critical for companies competing globally.