Observations from an old-timer:
1.  I always liked to point out to moms that releasing milk to a hard, mechanical object is not the same as a soft cuddly baby, so her body may not respond as readily when pumping.
2. Try to emulate some of the aspects of nursing the baby as far as possible.  This includes:
   touch- warmth to the breast (NOT heat-perhaps a soft cloth warmed in the microwave)
   sight-picture of baby if baby not at hand
   smell - blanket or clothing that baby has worn/been wrapped in
   sound-recording of baby at breast if possibleor at least baby's happy sounds
   taste - kiss or lick baby before pumping
3.  DO NOT WATCH THE PUMP!  Once flanges are placed comfortably, close your eyes, relax, perhaps listen to soothing music.  When a mom is focusing on watching for the milk, her shoulders and back are tense, she is tense and cannot relax.
4. I'm not sure about the idea of stopping as soon as there is no flow, except to do some stimulation.  If she stops when the flow stops, she is sending the message "thank you, that's enough" while pumping past the stopping of flow or barely dribbling, she sends the message, "increase production-more needed".  Of course, I don't recommend pumping ad infinitum, but usually suggest continuing a couple minutes-as long as it is comfortable.
5-=. I like to describe production as compared to a factory and warehouse.  If the warehouse has too much product and it's not going out, the factory gets a message to cut back.  On the other hand, if the warehouse is empty and can't keep up with orders reeived, the factory gets the message to "call in an extra shift".
 
Winnie Mading-retired

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