Choosing an MIS...

Switching print MIS can seem daunting.

The print estimating module is very important. In the past we've heard nightmares of people paying serious money to switch away from Printpak, only to return two years later, sadder, wiser, and poorer. 

 

Free Print MIS

The answer is that you really have to experience the product to know what it will be like. And if you don't like it you are unlikely to get your money back! Here are a few tips on the process.

Printpak’s Community edition is a fully functional free MIS. To see this and other versions from Printpak go to the home page.  Good luck in your search.

 
What do you want from MIS? What else can MIS do? Why switch MIS? Other considerations The MIS Paradox
 
Reduce cost
  • Prices of systems vary enormously
  • Ask why prices of systems are not displayed on-line – is it because they are embarrassed?
  • There is usually not only an up-front cost, but a periodic cost too. A difference of a few pounds a week can get significant.
  • What you pay does not necessarily correspond to what you get. Look here.
What about problems transferring data?
  • Whatever system you migrate from and to there is always work to do.
  • Many systems allow you to import and export customers.
  • Jobs are more problematic to transfer (and can be expensive). Nevertheless it might be worthwhile getting a quote.
  • Paper pricelists can often be imported direct from files supplied by the suppliers.
  • For a start you’ll need estimates and invoices.
 
Reduce bureaucracy
  • Some systems are far faster to use than others and require less entries
  • Look for intelligent systems which can advise you rather than just adding up
  • If the spot price you negotiated when estimating can become the purchase order on confirmation without further work then that’s an example of efficiency.
Training and set-up
  • Something to watch out for. Many systems rely on installation and training to make a large proportion of their income
  • On-line tutorials can be useful for helping you find your feet.
  • If it needs a lot of hand-holding to get set-up, don’t forget you’re on your own when the man in the white coat goes home again.
  • Intelligent systems take a lot less setting up