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Print MIS: What concerns and options do printers have?
Although the spring cleaning season came and went, it's never too late for print organizations to take a fresh look at their print MIS software solutions. According to industry resource WhatTheyThink, it's critical for printers to keep a clear head about the software they're using to manage workflows and connect with buyers.
Managing updates
One of the biggest issues the resource cited is knowing whether an organization's print MIS version is up to date. For instance, some printers will buy the most recent software package from a vendor, but, as is the case with virtually all technology, the solution grows out of date quickly. The newer versions often offer enhancements that make print management more flexible or efficient, but each upgrade is usually an added expense.
At the same time, when organizations don't keep their software updated, they can face systemic hurdles in an attempt to move to a new version. WhatTheyThink suggested that if companies go the route of purchasing software, they should try to stay within one version of the newest update. Otherwise, they may have difficulty troubleshooting any errors further down the road.
Software as a service that's automated

Another increasingly popular option that many printers choose is to subscribe to a software as a service solution that is either hosted online through the cloud or installed locally, explained software provider Capterra. When print organizations opt for a SaaS platform, they're able to take advantage of ongoing support and updates as part of their subscription, which makes it much easier to ensure the software is the most recent version.
What's more, many hosted platforms give printers and buyers equal transparency into their workflows. For instance, a client that places an order through a shared online portal will be able to see their past orders, as well as current pending ones. Buyers face fewer obstacles dealing with excessive paperwork to not only get quotes but also to manage both digital and offset print work orders by using a single dashboard.
As Capterra indicated, a SaaS platform is often more flexible to a printer's needs. Should a company wish to subscribe to the solution for a limited time or purchase a license, some vendors will offer both. Meanwhile, WhatTheyThink highlighted the fact that print MIS solutions should provide workflow automation. As long as the solution is robust, the fewer the touch points that customers have to come in contact with, the better.
