www.printmonthly.co.uk 77 September / October 2023 - Issue 344 BACK TO BASICS / MIS SOFTWARE PT.2 OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCIES In the second feature of our two-part series, Print Monthly takes a look at some of the latest developments in management information systems and the benefits these offer to print companies Without making too much of an assumption, the chances are that you will be well aware of what a management information system (MIS) is and the importance of having such a solution in place at a modern print business. The core issue when it comes to working with an MIS is ensuring you are using the system the right way and getting the most out of it, as well as keeping up to date with the very latest developments and releases from providers in this market. Having explored a number of options earlier in the year, the second piece in this two-part series considers the latest products and updates now available to the market, with suppliers offering advice and guidance on how to ensure you can use these solutions to improve your business’ performance. Backbone Of Business Kicking off the debate is Esko and Jan De Roeck, director of industry relations and strategic marketing. De Roeck says gathering data from customers during the job onboarding process, from multiple online systems in the company during production, analysing the information, and producing reports to aid management decision-making, has led to contemporary MIS solutions being viewed as the backbone of any organisation. “From the energy crisis and the erosion of margins to material shortages and labour and skills deficits, we know there are many significant challenges for businesses, not only today, but also going forward in the future,” De Roeck says. “We experience a period of one new macro-economic and global challenge after another, a trend that looks set to continue for a good while. That's why it's imperative to continuously review business operations. The role of technology and innovation is key in surmounting these challenges. “It is now imperative that companies review their current business operations and identify areas where they can make meaningful improvements and drive operational efficiencies in order that they not only survive but thrive.” So, what should print service providers (PSPs) be looking for in an MIS? De Roeck lists efficiency as the biggest benefit of a standardised workflow, saying standardisation is the necessary foundation of any successful automation. “Businesses today are often operating in multiple silos, often a legacy of previous
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