In August 2010 Pitman completed a management buyout which marks a new development in the vision and strategy for the business. Expansion plans are targeted at towns for Pitman Training Centres and more rural locations where Pitman can offer distance learning for study and students can also access face to face training in town centres if they choose.

The service Pitman Training require is centralised efficiency without losing flexibility and quality.

The online ordering, monitoring of accuracy, consistency and delivery of the Pitman training packs is a key responsibility and KnowledgePoint have provided an exceptional service which gives ease of access to the Training Centres. The working relationship between Pitman and KnowledgePoint is now at the next level; integrating ordering into the management systems and the network systems. This will enable downloads and automatic stock checks by Centre.

The ordering flexibility on volumes and the fast turnround times for scheduling, printing and despatch means no costs are incurred in holding stock by Pitman; all parties gain from the flexibility.

Not only has KnowledgePoint provided operational flexibility but also product flexibility in terms of:

• type of binding
• single or double sided print
• colour
• black and white
• paper size
• large print versions

Pitman gain a centralised function which gives them volume buying power across the Training Centres with quality and reliability controlled by KnowledgePoint on Pitman’s behalf. Plus KnowledgePoint carry out centralised billing weekly which gives certainty, billing consistency and financial control to Pitman.

Says Paul Crompton, Finance Director at Pitman Training “This is a great example of client and supplier working together in each other’s interests. Respecting, collaborating and understanding what each party needs from the relationship. We have been working together now for eight years –a testimony to the success each party brings to the table.”