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Estimating is a core function for Print MIS software, yet many printers fail to implement this part of the system to a trusted level, hence there is a lot of retreating back to Excel. Estimating is a critical function that needs to be part of your integrated and measureable print management information system.
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About Jane Mugford
Jane Mugford is a contributor at WhatTheyThink’s Print Softwaresection as well the lead print MIS specialist at Web2Print Experts, Inc. a technology-independent print software consulting firm helping printers with web-to-print and print MIS solutions.
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Discussion
By Michael Bradley on May 20, 2015
Jane - the timing of your topic is uncanny. For the past 2 days PrintVis has been on site with a U.S. client whose primary obstacle has been exactly as you describe - they are using PrintVis everywhere BUT in their estimating, which is of course the core of our solution, feeding key data to all other modules and saving valuable time.
Just as you say, they have fallen back on a customized Excel setup for their quoting, lacking the confidence that going full-bore with PV will accurately meet the particular details of their daily estimates. As a result they suffer from redundant data entry and other inefficiencies.
The takeaway from our visit was that the client recognizes the value and logic of using PrintVis from the core (estimation) outward - and they are going to bite the bullet and get it done before their busiest season this Fall. We want them to be successful with PrintVis - and sometimes some on-site guidance is the most effective way to show a client what they already know inside is the best path for their business.
Rest assured I will be forwarding your article to them this morning. It is so spot-on and timely I wonder if you weren't on site as well, lurking in the shadows and taking notes? :)