Regarding the latter, estimating systems should be expandable to accommodate workflow barriers associated with complex print jobs that include multiple components. Improvements in the request, management and integration of third-party estimates that are included in the quotation process is ultimately the key, said the study. Far too much time continues to be consumed with administrative tasks. In fact, print service providers averaged 2 hours and 10 minutes per order on administrative tasks associated with job planning!
These are just some of the major findings in a new report on estimating systems, released by the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) School of Media Sciences. Gannett Distinguished Professor Chris Bondy and Media Arts and Technology student Wesley Odell identified and reviewed a variety of estimating systems, and interviewed print service provider participants representing various positions in their respective companies. Positions ranged from estimating and operations, to company leadership. For a complete copy of the research report, please go to http://printinthemix.com – the RIT Cross-Media Innovation Center Industry Portal.