Workflow management systems help you define different workflows for different types of jobs or processes. In a print company, for example, a designed document might be automatically routed from the designer to an account handler and then to the prepress department.
Remind me again: what is a ‘workflow management system’?
Workflow management systems automate redundant tasks, and ensure uncompleted tasks are highlighted and followed up. They also control automated processes put in place to make administrative tasks like order processing redundant. The workflow reflects the dependencies required to complete each specific task.
Workflow automation can improve the quality of your output by reducing manual handling and human error, as well as speeding up turnaround times, so you can produce more work and increase revenue. After installing a workflow management system, you’ll wonder how you ever did without it.
Why is workflow so important?
Workflow is critical to success in the print business today because it can unify the different print technologies – such as offset, digital cut sheet, roll-fed and wide format devices – all of which require unique workflow processes for file preparation, print production and finishing. A print workflow consists of a sequence of connected steps having a work element that relates to machinery, the efforts of an individual, or a group of staff like account executives or press operators. The flow element refers to a print job that is being transferred from one step to another in the end-to-end manufacturing process.
Workflow animation
Animated workflow guidance is also available for certain features and troubleshooting tasks. This provides more visual direction of operating tasks and troubleshooting help for procedures such as paper jams and toner replacements.
An integrated workflow can prevent bottlenecks and utilise production capacity more efficiently. For print providers, improving workflow is the best way to focus attention and money and drive better business returns. It cuts costs by automating processes and reducing the number of human touches involved in those processes. Every time someone touches a product, it potentially costs time and money – but workflow management will free up your staff from time-consuming and error-prone routine tasks.