Packaging operations can configure EFI’s 4.0 software to address specific production management needs.
Shown for the first time at drupa, EFI’s latest ERP based suite of software includes an expanded offering of integrations to optimise business and production operations for label and packaging converters.
The 4.0 release expands the company’s offering to include 20 certified workflows that combine the core Radius ERP software with modular, integrated components from EFI’s portfolio, as well as with key third-party technologies, such as Esko’s Automation Engine.
Packaging operations can configure the 4.0 software to address the specific production management needs for products they offer, including folding cartons, labels, shrink sleeves, in-mould labels, flexible packaging and blown film extrusion products.
Key features in the upgraded Packaging Suite include EFI dynamic intelligent estimating and planning component (with advanced CRM and job planning capabilities for folding cartons) and a new Packaging Suite Workbench – a centralised collection of role-based widgets defined by user type with an interface for estimators and customer service personnel.
For EFI customer Firstan Ltd, UK manufacturer of pharmaceutical healthcare and specialist food carton packaging, ‘The big plus is the data capture and planning,’ said Andrew Hartwig, managing director. ‘We use [the Suite] for purchases and factory management. We can now make accurate quotations and know that the margins we aim for are what we will actually get.’
‘As an early adopter of Packaging Suite 4.0, we have been able to accelerate our flexible packaging and film extrusion workflow,’ said Ann Meredith, systems analyst at SPR Packaging in Rockwall, Texas. ‘The Suite lets us purchase and track resins using weight based units, while being able to review job based activity in lengths or counts when it makes sense. Making this data available in additional units within the software is a requirement for many flexible packaging enterprises.’
‘Converters and the brands they serve will benefit from key advancements in customer engagement and management, order acquisition, scheduling production, data collection and financial and business reporting,’ said David Taylor, general manager, enterprise segment, EFI productivity software. ‘Our synchronised delivery framework gives converters a faster route to success, and a greater ROI as they expand and customise their workflows to address new markets or tackle important business challenges,’ he added.
