supported. On the other hand, it may be that the printer’s workflows and outputs have changed, and their system is not flexible enough to accommodate this change. Either way, he says moving to a new provider does not need to be a total headache. He says: “Mindset and company ethos are one of the keys to success. If the need for change is clearly outlined to staff by leadership and example is led from the top level down, the transition can be positive and proactive. "Change can be seen as a time to evaluate internal processes and a realisation that ‘this is the way we have always done it’ is not really a good enough reason to continue to do so." The MIS team has a huge part to play in this process. With over 45 years’ experience of putting in systems, Imprint are aware of the pitfalls of putting in a new system and ways to avoid installs grinding to a halt. “The key is to set realistic goals and keep up momentum with implementation, training, and regular communication.” Horwood says that 2025 has been a busy year for the provider in terms of advancements. In April, it hosted the CIP4 interop, working with a number of parties to expand and standardise integration options in the industry. On the back of this Imprint continues to add new features and modules into its online dashboard, which is free to all Imprint licenced customers “As well as onboarding new customers we have undertaken new projects with existing customers,” he says, adding: “We are currently working on an interface that can deal with complex mailing jobs and look forward to sharing more information as the project evolves. We are also working solutions into the system to deal with new challenges facing our customers such as EUDR traceability.” End-to-End Functionality Also weighing in is Rob Thurston, UK sales manager at printIQ, who says when evaluating an MIS, printers should focus on solutions that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. “A modern MIS should offer end-toend functionality from estimating and job management to production planning, inventory control, and reporting,” he says, continuing: “It’s crucial that the system can support a wide range of print environments, including digital, offset, wide-format, and packaging. “Cloud-based access, regular software updates, strong security, and open APIs for integration with third-party tools are all essential. Ultimately, a good MIS should automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and give printers the insights they need to make informed business decisions.” On the danger of standing still, Thurston says many PSPs continue to rely on legacy systems that are no longer fit for purpose. He explains these outdated platforms cannot keep up with the complexity and pace of today’s print operations, adding that if your current MIS lacks flexibility, does not support modern workflows, or makes it difficult to access real time information, it’s probably time to consider a change. “At printIQ, we understand that switching providers can feel like a major undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be painful,” he says, adding: “Our implementation process is structured and collaborative, with dedicated onboarding specialists, compreA modern MIS should offer end-to-end functionality from estimating and job management to production planning, inventory control, and reporting Over 90% of Fortune 500 companies rely on advanced MIS for daily operations and strategic planning 500 ▲ Imprint advises PSPs to identify areas of improvement before looking for a new MIS solution 86 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2025 - Issue 356 MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS | ROB FLETCHER
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