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Top Seven Reasons to Join an Association

Did you know joining a professional association can help you save time and money?   If so, you’re not alone. There are over 90,000 trade, industry, and professional associations in the US with millions of members — all gaining the financial and networking benefits of membership.   Here are seven of the most powerful to consider.  In

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Selling Over the Quoted Price 

A consultant wrote, “a client advise implemented a meaningful Commission bump for selling over the target price.” At first brush, that sounds like an obvious plan, but it causes us to think more carefully as it implies that the dollars over the target price are more valuable than the dollars at the target price or

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Dear David: When Do We Pay for Training Time?

Question: When are we required to pay for trainings?  Answer: In general, time spent in job-related training is counted as time worked and must be paid. However, not every lecture, class, training program, or similar activity would qualify. If all four of the following criteria are met, you don’t need to pay the employee for

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Dear David: Is Dress Code Enforceable?

Question: Our previous HR director was lax about policy enforcement, particularly around tardiness and dress code. What’s the best way to start enforcing these policies consistently?  Answer: If possible, we recommend meeting with employees to inform them that, going forward, these policies will be uniformly enforced. If meetings aren’t a viable option, a company-wide announcement

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Letterpress Revival

Introduction  Though it will never regain its prominent place in the printing world versus competitors like offset lithographic presses and production digital printing systems, letterpress printing is making a remarkable comeback. This comeback is not exclusively reserved for printing museums, though it is happening there too. New initiatives at colleges and universities are riding the

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Eco-friendly bags in a store.

Eco-Friendly Design Trends: How Designers Can Lead the Sustainability Movement

By Sonali Shah As environmental concerns continue to be our biggest human challenge to date, designers are increasingly embracing sustainability. From minimalist packaging to AI-driven design solutions, the industry is evolving to meet the demand for more eco-conscious practices. Designers have a unique opportunity to drive change, shaping a future where creativity and sustainability go

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Check out Videos from drupa 2024 

Did you miss the action at drupa 2024? We’ve got you covered. Check out these videos from WhatTheyThink to hear from various attendees. They share new technologies, industry insights, and their experiences at the show.  Through Fresh Eyes: Cal Poly Graphic Communications Students on Their First drupa Visit – WhatTheyThink  Inspiring the Future of Production

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Woman packing up her desk.

Dear David: Can You Send an Employee Home Early 

Question: If an employee puts in their notice, can we let them go that day instead of keeping them for the full notice period? Answer: Generally, yes, you can let an employee go that same day unless there is a contract or agreement to the contrary. While you aren’t required to retain an employee or

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New 401K Rules for 2026 

The IRS has announced the official 401(k) contribution limits for 2026.   2026 401(k) Contribution Limits:  Category   Limit  Employee Contribution (Under Age 50)  $24,500  Age 50+ Catch-up Contribution (Ages 50-59, 64+)  $8,000  Age 60-63 “Super” Catch-up Contribution  $11,250  Total Employee + Employer Contributions  $72,000  Key Details:  Important Note for High Earners in 2026: Starting in 2026, participants

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Cardboard box on a table.

Authentic Sustainability: Building Credibility Beyond Greenwashing

By Sonali Shah   As sustainability becomes a critical component of branding, businesses must avoid greenwashing — making misleading claims about eco-friendly practices. Greenwashing risks not only backlash but also regulatory action, damaging trust and losing customers. For the print and design industries, authenticity in sustainability initiatives is essential to resonate with audiences and create genuine

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