Graphic Media Alliance

09/25/2025

Celebrating a Successful 2025 ENCORE Leadership Conference!

The 2025 ENCORE Leadership Conference, held on Monday, September 22, was a day filled with fresh ideas, practical strategies, and powerful conversations that addressed the most pressing issues shaping our industry today—automation, data-driven decision-making, workforce development and leadership in an age of disruption.

Global thought leaders and industry experts shared actionable insights on unlocking capacity through automation, using data to drive better decisions and strengthening organizations through forward-thinking HR practices. Their sessions went beyond theory, offering real-world strategies that attendees can put into action right away.

The atmosphere was vibrant, with energy fueled by engaged leaders eager to shape the future of print. Attendees left inspired, equipped with new perspectives, and ready to apply what they learned within their own businesses. More than just a conference, ENCORE proved to be a catalyst for innovation, transformation and confident leadership in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

The Leadership Conference started with the End-to-End Workflow Automation panel, which featured Ryan McAbee of Pixel Dot Consulting, Tom Peire of Four Pees, Vishal Sahay of SpencerMetrics and was moderated by Pat McGrew of McGrewGroup, Inc. This opening panel highlighted how automation must be viewed as more than isolated tools or software—it’s about creating connected, continuously optimized processes across the entire business. Panelists emphasized that while many print operations have implemented production workflow automation, the biggest opportunities lie in the “front of house” and “back of house” areas, such as estimating, customer service, job specs and post-production tasks. They stressed the importance of linking data throughout every step, from quoting to shipping, so decisions are informed and efficiency is maximized. The panel also underscored that true workflow automation requires clear strategy, cultural alignment, and accountability—without leadership commitment and continuous optimization, even the best tools fall short.

Following this engaging panel, Ryan McAbee returned to the stage for his session, Automation in Customer Engagement. Ryan explored how evolving customer expectations are reshaping how printers handle orders and communication. While many shops have invested in online ordering tools, the reality is that most still rely heavily on email as the primary entry point for jobs—leading to inefficiencies, miscommunication and lost time. He emphasized that customers increasingly want self-service options, such as tracking orders or accessing status updates, without waiting for staff responses. The discussion highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of web-to-print: from streamlining quote turnaround and reducing errors, to overcoming poor past experiences or fragmented systems. Emerging tools like chatbots, AI-assisted email routing and collaborative proofing platforms were mentioned as ways to ease bottlenecks, reduce rework and improve the customer experience.

Following Ryan, Vishal Sahay made a return to the stage to cover The Role of Data in Automated Decision-Making. Vishal focused on maximizing efficiency through automated data collection and reducing manual administrative effort. He highlighted common challenges with inconsistent production data, job tracking gaps and time spent compiling reports. By capturing accurate job metrics directly from equipment and systems, companies can free staff to focus on value-added tasks, improve resource utilization and make more informed business decisions. The discussion emphasized linking data initiatives to profitability, minimizing human error and using automation to optimize both capacity and operational insight.

After a tasty, hands-on lunch crafting our own pasta bowls, attendees welcomed back Tom Peire, who enlightened everyone with his The Cost of Not Automating session. This session explored the full spectrum of automation, from hands-on, craft-focused production to fully connected, data-driven facilities. The discussion highlighted that automation isn’t just about machines—it’s about connecting systems, data and processes to scale efficiently. Automation must be strategically driven by management, starting small with clear KPIs and proper scoping, while gradually expanding. Connected systems, from production to sales channels and marketplaces, enable faster, more accurate and more profitable operations, with high-quality, structured data forming the foundation for predictive production and smarter decision-making. Emerging technologies like AI are increasingly automating data translation and process decisions, enhancing speed and accuracy. The takeaway is clear: connected, data-driven workflows are no longer optional—they are essential for competitiveness and scalable growth.

Following Tom, attendees enjoyed a panel on Your People, Your Advantage: HR & Employee Benefits featuring Jillian Cee of Minutemen HR, Melissa Dials of Fisher Phillips, Joe Trybula of Printers 401k, and moderated by Graphic Media Alliance President Andrew Schall. This panel explored the evolving challenges of recruiting and retaining talent in today’s printing industry. Panelists emphasized that while pay remains important, employees increasingly prioritize flexibility, growth opportunities, culture, and meaningful benefits. AI and technology can support recruiting, onboarding, and administrative efficiency—but human oversight is critical to avoid bias and ensure compliance. Innovative benefit strategies, including tailored retirement programs, wellness initiatives, and tuition support, were highlighted as powerful tools to attract and retain employees. The takeaway: investing in people, meeting them where they are and providing purposeful development and support is the key to building a resilient, engaged workforce.

The day concluded with a Technology Showcase & Live-Demos, featuring real-time demos of workflow automation in action. This session brought automation out of theory and into practice, with live demonstrations showing how integrated systems can streamline operations end to end. The presenters included David Lunardi & Diego Wharton of OneVision Software, Ryan McAbee of Pixel Dot Consulting, John O'Donnell of Heidelberg North America, Tom Peire of Four Pees and Vishal Sahay of SpencerMetrics. They highlighted how jobs can flow automatically from intake through scheduling, prepress, production and finishing—minimizing human touchpoints while maximizing speed and accuracy. The demos showed how automation handles everything from high-volume digital orders to complex offset runs, adapting in real time to device availability and production changes. True workflow automation is no longer a concept, but a proven, scalable solution that enables printers to boost efficiency, flexibility and profitability.

After a day packed with inspiring sessions, attendees unwound to the smooth rhythms of remixed classic rock while enjoying an array of appetizers and cocktails. The vibe was relaxed yet vibrant, setting the stage for lively conversations and networking. Both familiar colleagues and new connections made the most of the evening, sharing ideas and reflecting on the day’s insights. The night was full of laughter, meaningful interactions and a collective excitement about the knowledge gained and the possibilities ahead.

Check out all of the photos from conference

A sincere thank you to our amazing sponsors! Your ongoing support made this event possible and helped us create an outstanding experience. We truly couldn’t have done it without you. Your partnership didn’t just enable the event—it elevated it, and for that, we are immensely grateful.