Why ERP is a must for print entrepreneurs: "Often the mindset is spot on but they lack overview."
28 December 2022
On the eve of C!Print, we spoke to Patrick Bidault, Dataline Business Development Manager in France. Patrick built a sterling career at CERM MIS Software and EFI. In this interview, he shares his insights on common mistakes and the opportunities that ERP software like MultiPress can provide for print businesses of all sizes.
What is one mistake business leaders often make that you would like to see disappear?
"Often their thinking is right, but even the most talented business leaders and CEOs lack overview. That overview is in many cases the key to success: by committing to a fully centralised business administration, you enjoy benefits that cannot be underestimated."
So what benefits are we talking about?
"With MultiPress ERP software, you create one central memory for every member of your team. You thus track every order from the initial phase to delivery and customer approval, and every detail of that production flow is recorded: production time, any errors in the process, where the most time is lost.
In short, by automating, outsourcing some parts of your process to reliable partners, working with a smaller team and keeping out loss-making practices, you keep your print business healthy, even in these difficult times."
You are currently in charge of MultiPress in France, what is the impact of this kind of administrative software?
"Print administration seems simple, but it is actually a very particular process. In my career as a software expert, I have learnt about and implemented many systems that make this process easier. But even I was impressed when I discovered MultiPress: this is a very modern and innovative ERP system.
What makes Dataline's approach so unique?
"Dataline customers are not alone when they choose MultiPress. Choosing an ERP is something that involves a long thought process. Once that choice is made, the real work begins: implementation. Unlike other software developers, we don't leave our customers to their own devices. Too often you hear the story that people had to figure it out themselves, armed with an FAQ list and an unavailable support. We emphasise full implementation guidance, from A to Z.
Thanks for your time, Patrick. One last question: where can we find the Dataline booth at C!Print 2023?
My colleagues and I are happy to welcome curious visitors to stand 1A10, near the entrance in the software village. There we will give clear demonstrations of what MultiPress can do for your unique print business.