Process management in printing plants plays a crucial role in optimising workflows, increasing efficiency and improving quality in the processes. Well-designed and optimised processes are essential to keep up with fast-moving competition. In addition, they naturally also ensure satisfied customers and employees.
But: where and how do you start? Often, processes have become entrenched in decades-old, learned and practised routines and grown structures. In the heads of management and staff, in the daily routines. Often each department does “its own thing” without taking into account the “before” or “after”. They can’t see the wood for the trees and find it difficult to uncover potential. Or even to implement potentials, or to enforce them on the trained staff or the senior boss. Because once a process is well established, every change is a start.
So where and how to start? What are the possibilities?
In the following, we have compiled 7 possibilities for you to start optimising your process management:
1. Process analysis
A thorough analysis of existing processes can be the first step in process management. This involves understanding your entire print workflow (and beyond that, the entire corporate process) and identifying the individual steps. How and where does what information flow? Analyse each area, each department, each trade, each job type and finally the processes as a whole. Get an overview. Where are the friction losses hiding? Where do mistakes occur? Where do processes take place that are not necessary? Where are bottlenecks or inefficient areas and where is there potential for improvement?
2. Standardisation
Where can standards be defined in your company? Which processes always run in the same or similar way so that they could be standardised? By introducing standardised processes and procedures, you can achieve consistent and repeatable results. This includes, for example, the definition of uniform work instructions, quality standards or error prevention procedures.
3. Workflow-Optimisation
Often the print workflow can be improved by identifying bottlenecks and implementing optimisation measures. This can include the use of automation technologies, the use of workflow management systems or the revision of workflows to maximise efficiency. Where could you get digital support? Which processes or routine tasks, for example in pre-press, can be optimised with the help of software?
4. Communication and collaboration: identify communication leaks
Effective communication and collaboration not only within but also between different departments and team members are crucial for a smooth business process. Regular meetings, clear communication channels and the promotion of open exchange help to minimise misunderstandings and improve cooperation. Furthermore, a balanced communication structure fosters employee satisfaction. Because those who are asked and heard feel valued.
5. Quality control
Process management also includes the implementation of quality control mechanisms. Ensure that print results meet specified requirements and standards. This may include the regular review of print samples, the use of inspection tools or even the establishment of feedback loops or release loops for continuous improvement.
6. Training and further education
Continuous training and education of staff is essential for effective process management. Printing technologies and processes, working techniques and systems, tools and software systems are constantly evolving. It is therefore important that staff have up-to-date knowledge and skills to implement processes in the best possible way. In addition, it also makes sense to train the employees themselves with regard to process management. Only when there is understanding and changes are comprehensible will they be accepted. Transparency and open communication are indispensable prerequisites for success.
7. Data management and analysis
Implementing data management systems and analysing production data can provide valuable insight into the printing process. This can be used to identify bottlenecks, monitor production performance and identify areas for optimisation.
How can we support you?
Experience in a personal online live demo how you can use advanter in your business and also optimise your processes. We are happy to support you in sharpening your view of the big picture or even the smallest details.
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