What EPM Online Does for Clients
Webb/Mason's Enterprise Print Management (EPM) Online users have unique names and passwords, giving them access to privately branded web sites. During the initial setup with the system, users customize order templates and enter data the system remembers, such as cost-center addresses. Users can preview product images, create "favorite" lists of frequently ordered items, check real-time inventory and order by the shopping-cart method. The system sends separate email confirmations when orders are placed and shipped.
EPM Online also enables clients' sales reps and other users to create customized marketing collateral when they need it. Webb/Mason recently branded an on-demand marketing fulfillment service for this purpose called TargetMarketNOW. Sales reps select a marketing tool such as a direct mail package, a flier or a brochure. Then, they choose their target audience. The system can be customized to accommodate pre-selected mailing lists and list parameters, and it includes demographic databases for individuals and businesses. Sales reps can filter the lists, selecting contacts based on specific needs. To customize content for one-to-one marketing, sales reps can change contact information, select from pre-approved graphics, and customize headlines and text. Once orders are ready for processing, TargetMarketNOW enables users to choose from a variety of mailing and distribution options, review estimated costs and place orders. Materials can be delivered directly to users, or campaigns can be processed through Webb/Mason's five distribution centers. Electronic billing options enable reps to bill by department, split charges or bill to a credit card through a secure e-commerce transaction system.
Because EPM Online is a proprietary system, Webb/Mason's IT team can make changes quickly based on customers' feedback. When customers said they wanted more administrative tools, the distributorship acted. EPM Online 4.0 enables clients' administrators to run more customized reports, control payment options better, and access a setup screen to turn various functions on and off. Webb/Mason also simplified EPM Online's display, moving from a button-based main screen to a dashboard-style that allows users to manage profiles, change user names and passwords, view previous orders, view tracking numbers and more.
3 Benefits of the System
1. Self-service convenience. EPM Online provides distributed access to organizations' print resources. Authorized users can order print materials directly from their desktops.
2. Electronic warehousing. Each company's customized print management site serves as an electronic warehouse for its stock printed items, providing an enterprise-wide library of materials with real-time inventory data. Using the site, employees can find, view and distribute materials they need, including brochures, forms, stationery, business cards and promotional items. Shipping and cost-center information is easily accessible.
3. Streamlined production. Users can customize and view business cards online, proof them instantly, and have them produced and shipped in three days or less. Preformatted layouts and logos ensure brand consistency. Webb/Mason ensures that the right printed material reaches the right employees' hands, with dramatically reduced procurement costs and speedy turnaround.
Brian Fritsche, Webb/Mason's CIO, leads a web demonstration of the distributorship's proprietary e-commerce system, Enterprise Print Management (EPM) Online. The system integrates an end user's print strategy, including ordering, fulfillment, production, inventory management and cost control. Credit: Bryan Burris
