In a mixed printing environment it is often difficult for companies to see an overview of their full production, in a single consolidated view. Often the analytics are stored on the printer or cutter, with job processes - like RIP or Nest information - stored in the software application they are using. Because the PrintFactory workflow is centrally managed with bi-directional information being sent via the workflow they are able to show the full production environment in a single consolidated view.

They have split the data into two clear functions:

Dashboard - which looks into the future and shows what jobs still need to be produced,

Reporting - which looks back and shows what has already been completed.

Erik Strik, CEO of PrintFactory: “This is a clear differentiator from what is commonly available as it gives print shops a 360 degree view of their entire production - every printer, cutter, job, RIP, nest and process - in a single view, no matter the brand or the location of the device, from the web based app.

In order to prevent bottlenecks and disruptions in production we give our customers tools to avoid them before they happen.”

How does the PrintFactory Dashboard work?
The Dashboard provides a consolidated view of all connected devices (printers and cutters) across all production sites, as well as Job information including RIPs, Nests and Processes.

In addition to displaying pending jobs based on delivery deadlines, the Dashboard includes a Health Check to inform the production team of potential problems before a disruption occurs.

Media cards provide insight into which substrate is causing the bottleneck and how to solve production squeezes for more informed scheduling decisions.

Erik continues: “We were printers too, so we understand the potential bottlenecks in production. Prepress, printing, and finishing are predictable and can be automated. Since cutting is the most common bottleneck, we designed the Dashboard with a filtered list of scheduled jobs so you can take action, such as rerouting jobs with one click. Also included in the Dashboard are estimates of how much Ink and substrate will be used for each job, as well as estimated costs.”

Enhanced Reporting Functionality
Reporting provides all of this data-rich information about completed jobs. In the app, this information can be viewed, exported to Excel or imported directly into BI, MIS or ERP systems, and includes alerts via a notification system.

A breakdown of ink and media usage, costs, waste, and efficiency is included for planning and scheduling in the ERP. Cutting length and complexity are included as well as information on tool/machine costs, speed, and efficiency.

Erik continues: “We are committed to revolutionizing large format print through optimized workflows. We believe every job should be right first time, every time and this is another example of how we’re making this vision a reality.”

The Dashboard and Reporting are included in the workflow, so there is no need for a separate subscription or module. The App allows Production customers to see the overview and Connect customers to perform advanced functions like rerouting jobs to any connected device via the Dashboard - from anywhere or connect the Reporting to their systems.