MIS selection tips

Finding the right management information system (MIS) isn't an easy task. Profectus Consulting (Sarasota, FL), a national print consultancy, has compiled more than 1,000 functional requirements for companies to consider when reviewing MIS options. According to president Craig L. Press, the midsize printer should consider at least 400 of these. Press suggests a three-step process for matching your company's current needs and to prepare for future growth.

1. Form a committee of end-users from all areas of your shop who use the system on a regular basis. Assess which options staff requires and which other suggestions may improve workflow.

2. Identify your business goals. Are you interested in adding fulfillment capabilities? Do you see full JDF-integration of your pressroom in the near future? Prepare now with a system that offers these capabilities, or pick an MIS that can be easily upgraded. Don't overlook small details, such as the data you want to see listed on a job ticket.

3. Make a 'grocery list' of features you want your MIS to include. "Be sure to prioritize the items on your list,” advises Press. "Will you be able to live with a third-party accounting program if an otherwise-perfect system doesn't include one?” Within each module, note the capabilities you absolutely require in a system. Rate the rest according to importance. (For a checklist of MIS functions, see "Making the best MIS choice,” February 2003.)


See the system at work

Thorough preparation will help you draft a request for proposal outlining your exact requirements. Weed out the inadequate systems and invite the top contenders to give you a demonstration. Create a demo script based on typical job scenarios in your plant. As the vendor walks you through the process, refer to your prioritized shopping list.
Press warns against being penny-wise but pound foolish. Rather, your requirements should drive your choice. High-end systems provide more functionality, flexibility and customability — the extra capabilities may be worth the investment.
The consultant notes we're still in the early stages of seeing JDF functionality built into MIS systems. As JDF matures, end-to-end computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) may soon be viable for even small printers. Review your JDF priorities with prospective MIS vendors. Gareth O'Brien's special report, "JDF and the supply chain,” (p. 41) offers advice on developing a JDF strategy.

Most system vendors have significantly expanded Internet capabilities, with Web browsers being used to execute programs, perform queries or even enter data for estimating or data collection. Many vendors have joined PrintTalk (Reston, VA) to facilitate MIS interfacing to third-party e-commerce systems. PrintTalk, a non-profit consortium of MIS and e-commerce vendors, was formed in 2000 to create an open standard for the direct communication of data between e-commerce applications and business-management systems.

A selection of recent MIS introductions for midsize printers follow. We'll be keeping a close eye on MIS news at drupa and will keep you posted...

Read complete article

www.americanprinter.com

( Source: American Printer )