EDITOR'S notebook

* Our global march continues, and China isn't the only threat. Like it or not, we're no longer just competing with the competitor across town, or even across the country. Digital file transfer has removed geographical barriers. North America's largest printers heading our rankings have extended their platforms into Europe, Latin America and the Far East. Even so, partnerships with offshore printers are more likely options for most U.S. establishments. China may be capturing all of the headlines today, but countries like Korea and India are also looming print providers. There will always be lower cost print producers, so the key is to maximize the competitive advantages of short runs, reduced cycle times and integration with other media. Smart printers realize clients need multi-channel marketing communications that call for printing, database management, mailing and fulfillment, as well as creative services, Website hosting and personal URLs, e-mail marketing and even call centers. Control the content and you control the customer.