Training dilemma and a work of art

Q We want to print five or so copies of an art project. It is to look like a magazine, A5 size, 48pp plus cover. We want a glossy illustrated cover. Can you recommend a printer in London who can turn this out with high image quality, quickly and reasonably economically?

A Many of the companies I called were reluctant to fulfil this task because, when it comes to short-run, high-specification jobs, the profits are just not there. However, PrintWeek's Digital Printer of the Year 2008, London-based Screaming Colour (020 7549 3400), quoted £249 for five copies on FSC 130gsm paper. An extra five copies would cost just £16 more. Bromley-based Copyprint (020 7730 6282), said it could produce the job for you in a day for around £69, again depending on variables.
 
Q I'm trying to find out what print-related courses are available to me and my staff. I have looked already, but it is hard to see which courses will bring value to my business. I would like advice on how to benefit both my business and employees by finding a course, or courses, that will train my team on a vast number of topics, including colour management.
David Newton, Winchester

A To cater for your diverse needs, I recommend that you contact Richard Bloxam at Proskills (07919 481842) who can advise you on which units best suit your business needs and can talk you through your training options. Thanks, in part, to a recent government initiative - the Qualifications and Credit Framework - businesses' training needs are now being recognised. Even better, Proskills has finally received the nod for a National Skills Academy, which will only improve available training options. By investing in courses now, you will be bettering your business in the long term. Print-based qualifications can be undertaken on a unit-by-unit basis, at an employee's own pace. Three types of qualification are available under this scheme, with 1-12 credits given for an award, 13-36 credits for a certificate and 37 credits or more for a diploma. A notional 10 hours of learning equals one credit. This credit could be at an easy level, but be very broad, or be at a higher level and be very specific. Both methods will require 10 hours of learning time each to achieve. The printing industry already has comprehensive qualifications, from pre-press to finishing, plus everything in between, so you should find what you need. Conversion to the unitary system is expected to be complete by 2010.