Print ERP: The Next Step Beyond Print MIS

In an era where graphic arts manufacturers are expected to deliver faster turnaround times, tighter quality control, and customized products, the systems used to manage those workflows are under pressure. For years, Print MIS (Management Information Systems) were the standard for job tracking and basic estimating in the print world. But today, a growing number of companies are shifting to a more robust, fully integrated solution: Print ERP systems.

This evolution reflects deeper trends in the manufacturing and printing space—namely, the push toward automation, real-time data visibility, and better decision-making through technology. In this article, we’ll explore what a Print ERP is, how it differs from traditional MIS systems, and why print businesses of all sizes are making the switch.

What is a Print ERP?

A Print ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is a comprehensive software platform that integrates every core area of a print business—including estimating, job costing, production, inventory, procurement, shipping, and accounting—into a single solution.

Unlike Print MIS systems, which often require bolt-on tools for accounting, inventory, or customer relationship management (CRM), a Print ERP is built to be the operational backbone of the business. It provides:

• A central database to eliminate information silos
• Real-time job tracking and material usage
• Seamless links between departments (e.g., estimating → scheduling → invoicing)
• Support for multi-site operations, cost centers, and job profitability analysis

Think of Print ERP as a platform that scales with your business. It’s not just about managing jobs; it’s about managing the entire company in a unified, data-driven way.

How Print MIS Systems Fall Short

Print MIS tools have been instrumental for decades—but as expectations grow, limitations become more apparent:

• Fragmented systems: Many Print MIS platforms don’t offer integrated financials or supply chain features, requiring third-party tools or manual workarounds.
• Outdated architecture: Legacy on-premises software is hard to maintain and doesn’t support remote or hybrid work easily.
• Poor scalability: As companies grow, the lack of real-time visibility and advanced automation can slow progress or lead to costly errors.
• Limited customization: Many older MIS tools lack the flexibility modern operations demand, especially for specialized production environments.

This doesn’t mean that MIS tools are irrelevant—only that for many print companies, they may no longer be enough.

Why More Print Companies Are Adopting ERP

Here are the top reasons why companies are transitioning to ERP solutions:

1. Unified Operations

An ERP consolidates your operations into a single system, so you can track everything from raw materials to invoice payments in one place. No more jumping between platforms or manually reconciling data.

2. Improved Production Planning

Print ERP software often includes advanced scheduling tools that optimize press time, reduce setup costs, and identify bottlenecks early—something traditional MIS systems rarely handle well.

3. Built-In Financials

Instead of relying on disconnected accounting software like QuickBooks, Print ERP systems include integrated finance modules. This leads to more accurate job costing, better budgeting, and faster month-end closings.

4. Better Reporting and KPIs

Modern ERP platforms allow managers to generate dashboards and real-time reports across departments—helping them make faster, more informed decisions.

5. Cloud Accessibility

Most leading Print ERP systems offer cloud-based deployment, reducing infrastructure costs and enabling remote work—especially valuable post-pandemic.

Print ERP in Action: PrintVis and Business Central

One of the most well-known ERP systems tailored for the print industry is PrintVis, which runs on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Together, they offer a best-of-both-worlds approach:

• PrintVis handles the industry-specific needs like prepress, ganging, plate management, and print shop floor control
• Business Central brings enterprise-level tools for accounting, HR, supply chain, and CRM

This combination allows print companies to handle complex workflows (like folding cartons or flexible packaging) without having to rely on multiple disconnected systems.

Learn about PrintVis License Pricing.

Want to explore how an ERP compares directly to Print MIS? Check out this in-depth article:
Print MIS vs ERP Systems – Which is Right for Your Print Business?

Is a Print ERP Right for Every Print Business?

Not necessarily. A full Print ERP may be overkill for very small print shops or companies that only need basic job tracking and invoicing. However, for companies with growing needs—especially those managing complex or high-volume operations—Print ERP offers a clear competitive advantage.

You may want to consider a Print ERP if:

• You’re managing multiple sites or departments
• You use spreadsheets or third-party tools to supplement your MIS
• Your team struggles with data accuracy or job costing
• You’re planning to scale operations or expand into new verticals

What to Look for in a Print ERP System

If you’re evaluating ERP solutions, look for the following:

• Print-specific functionality (impositions, ganging, prepress workflows)
• Full integration with financials, inventory, and customer management
• Scalability for growth and future add-ons
• Vendor support from experts in both ERP and the print industry
• Flexible deployment options (cloud, hybrid, or on-premises)

It’s also critical to work with an implementation partner that understands both ERP software and the printing business. A poor implementation can undermine even the best system.

Final Thoughts

As the print industry continues to evolve, the tools used to manage print businesses must evolve too. While Print MIS systems have served the industry well, Print ERP platforms are proving to be the next logical step for companies seeking end-to-end integration, real-time insights, and operational efficiency.

If you’re starting to outgrow your MIS—or you’re frustrated by disconnected systems—it may be time to consider what an ERP can do for your business.