Sparking Growth for the Future

Nashville, TN—or Music City—was the host for this year’s annual Dscoop convention—Dscoop8—and it was probably one of the most successful as well. More than 2,000 attendees from all around the world were able to take part in the learning, educational, and networking sessions.

In addition to the specialized sessions for Indigo and Scitex/Designjet users, there was a new “marketing and creative” educational series also offered. This track was designed to further educate creatives and graphic designers that work with Dscoop’s member companies—both internally and externally. The sessions are showed how creative sales tools and digital printing can help in delivering higher ROI and impact.

Dscoop8 Spark Highlights

During the opening session on Thursday evening, Eric Hawkinson, Dscoop’s executive director unveiled two new specialized offers to Dscoop members: Dscoop University and the Dscoop Print Directory.

According to Hawkinson, Dscoop University—powered by HP—is a community-driven training program for PSPs. One of Dsccop’s main missions has been to educate its members and this program has a single objective: build printers’ knowledge to drive business growth. The curriculum will span multiple market segments and functional tracks that include marketing, sales, operations and technology-specific topics.

The course curriculum will largely be derived from the real-world knowledge and experiences of Dscoop members, supplemented by HP resources and best-in-class industry information providers.

“A unique attribute of the Dscoop community is its ‘members helping members’ platform of knowledge sharing,” said Hawkinson. “That same element of member-driven content will significantly factor in Dscoop University’s value for its attendees. It will also be a real differentiator against other business development and training programs offered elsewhere in the print industry.”

Currently Dscoop is looking to hire a Dean of the University to help to keep the curriculum continuously updated in order to maintain its relevance and value amid shifts in market behavior and technology advancements.

Dscoop University will offer dual-platform learning through both online and in-person venues. Through a secure web portal, attendees will have 24/7 access to course content. Additionally, interactive instructor-led classroom sessions, based on member needs, will be offered on a range of topic tracks in various locations.

Additionally, the Dscoop Print Directory will be launched as a web-based tool for brand owners and designers. This tool is designed to provide users with a quick way to research and connect with digital PSPs. The Directory will provide more than just contact information; it will also offer qualitative information about each participating PSP’s capabilities. Any brand owner or designer can now efficiently source services according to their specific requirements.

The Dscoop Print Directory will be publicly viewable by any site visitor. Visitors will be able to search or browse according to print service provider name, location, print technology or capability, and other selection criteria.

Hawkinson said he views this Directory becoming the “Trip Advisor” for the graphic communications industry.

 The Dscoop Print Directory will launch in the spring and will be translated into nine different languages. Dscoop members are now able to access the directory and populate their information prior to launch.

Highlights from Dscoop Solutions Showcase Partners

Dscoop hosted more than 90 Partners in its Solutions Showcase at Dscoop8, featuring a variety of pioneering new products that are designed to “Spark” creative ideas in attendees’ minds.

A few highlights on the show floor included: