July 2007
Imprint Launches Internet Shopping Tool
MIS supplier Imprint Business Systems Ltd. has announced the official launch of version 1.0 of its WebDesk Suite software following extensive development trials in the field. While initially developed for commercial print, WebDesk can now be utilised by label, carton, business forms and packaging printers.
WebDesk permits users to fully utilise their websites to facilitate order placement and is a storefront approach to streamlining the ordering process with CRM, customer portal, on-line ordering and web-to-print module that allows template based variable data PDF creation and proofing with onward integration to order and workflow. The customer portal can be configured to give specific customers access to a range of options such as on-line ordering, job/order status, job/product archive, request for quotation, on-line proofing, messaging, and a range of queries and reports all available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Amongst the many features of WebDesk Suite is secure, tailored access to a range of MIS functions and other services for both customers and internal staff via the internet.
States Managing Director, Nick Bourne: "The idea of creating internet shopping tools has not been seen as a key growth area until recently. Earlier this year, we were asked to provide a software package designed to allow a virtual storefront for order organisation and WebDesk is the result. Each module is standalone and can be purchased separately depending on need and any combination can be integrated together. We are also working with third party vendors, such as Xralle, giving customers a wide choice dependent on functionality and budget'.
During the development phase Imprint installed its first WebDesk system at a large book printer that consisted of a basic system for online ordering and a basic report generator: number of books ordered, pagination, reprints, etc. Another division of the same company that provided covers, endpapers and jackets then received a similar WebDesk version. The software was further developed when a commercial printer contacted Imprint for an even broader storefront based system.
Adds Bourne: "It was at this time that the company decided to begin a development program for a fully equipped system which culminated in the four module Version 1.0 WebDesk Suite earlier this year and that we are now ready to launch to other sectors of the printing industry."
While designed to dovetail with Imprint's eXpert software, WebDesk can also be integrated with most other existing MIS systems as a standalone tool.