Graphic Arts Media

Merger between Idealliance and Epicomm completed

David J. Steinhardt.
David J. Steinhardt.

As reported here earlier, with the merger of key industry associations Idealliance and Epicomm now finalized, the combined staff of the new Idealliance is now addressing both the management and technology needs of printing industry companies in Canada and the USA across the entire visual communications supply chain. “Stakeholders in today’s industry operate in a highly competitive, high-technology field that requires a superior level of technical expertise and management acumen,” said Idealliance President and CEO David J. Steinhardt. “Consumers are digesting content in new ways, requiring buyers of print and digital communications to meet an ever-evolving demand for orchestrated content across a variety of print substrates and digital media. We’re expanding our initiatives to advance industry innovation and transform business, striving to serve as an indispensable leader in defining the future of visual communications. With its breadth of expert resources and depth of member commitment, Idealliance can help companies meet the increasingly difficult demands of our changing industry. Whatever their size, segment, market or process, Idealliance members know they can call on their association to help them grow profitability and meet business and technical challenges – from everyday media production issues to long-term strategic development,” Steinhardt added.
Ken Garner.

Idealliance resources cover six primary service areas – best practices and working groups, certification and training, advocacy and advancement, strategy and consulting, education and events, and publications and research. The new organization’s resources support innovation in the creation, production and distribution of media to enhance communications and commerce, and to advance its members’ competitiveness and growth. Steinhardt also pointed out that the new Idealliance serves as a strong, united voice for the graphic and digital communications industry – from content creators and brand managers to marketers, printers, mailers and fulfillment experts. “Under the leadership of Idealliance Executive Vice President Ken Garner, we will advocate before legislative and regulatory bodies on printing-related legislation, postal regulations and a host of business issues – from environmental concerns to workplace practices,” he said.
Idealliance will continue core programs and services in research and trends analysis. This includes its annual State of the Industry Report, strategic business development consulting, and industry standards defining colour, digital, mail, and media workflow – including G7, GRACoL, Mail.dat, Prism, and Swop. It will be expanding new offerings in management, professional and system certification, such as its recent successful launch of MailPro Certification. The new Idealliance is headquartered at 1800 Diagonal Road, Suite 320, in Alexandria, Virginia.