The implications of new technology for the skill and training needs of small- and medium-sized printing firms

Investigates the implications of digital technology for the skill and training needs of small printing firms. The picture that emerges is one where the emphasis is on re‐training due to technological change. The bulk of this training takes place in the workplace, with initial training typically being supplied by an equipment or software supplier as part of the initial purchase package. The skills gained by the key workers selected for initial training are then passed on informally to other staff in the firm. There is rarely a high level of commitment or a systematic approach to training that might be expected given the scale of the investment costs that many of these firms have incurred. Only a few proactively‐managed small‐ to medium‐sized enterprises are recognising the need to constantly update their workforce skills.