Quick Overview
- 1#1: EFI PrintSmith Vision - Comprehensive MIS software for print shops handling estimating, job scheduling, production tracking, invoicing, and accounting.
- 2#2: EFI Avanti - Integrated web-to-print and production workflow management system for streamlining print shop operations from order to delivery.
- 3#3: FYI - Robust print management software offering job ticketing, inventory control, scheduling, and ERP integration for print businesses.
- 4#4: ShopWorks - All-in-one print shop management tool for quoting, order tracking, CRM, invoicing, and QuickBooks integration.
- 5#5: Printavo - Cloud-based platform for screen printing and embroidery shops managing orders, approvals, production schedules, and customer communication.
- 6#6: RedTIE - Print estimating and job management software with automated workflows, cost tracking, and production planning for print providers.
- 7#7: Elke ES - Modular MIS solution for print shops providing job management, estimating, purchasing, inventory, and financial reporting.
- 8#8: Logic Print - ERP and MIS software tailored for the printing industry, covering CRM, production management, warehouse control, and analytics.
- 9#9: Aleyant eAutomate - Automated workflow and job management system integrating web-to-print, estimating, and production for print operations.
- 10#10: PressWise - Web-to-print storefront with integrated job management, automated imposition, and production workflow for print shops.
These tools were chosen based on a focus on functional depth, user-friendly design, scalability, and overall value, ensuring they cater to diverse print shop needs, from small enterprises to large-scale operations.
Comparison Table
For print shops aiming to streamline operations, choosing the right job management software is critical; this comparison table explores top tools like EFI PrintSmith Vision, EFI Avanti, FYI, ShopWorks, Printavo, and more to help users assess suitability. Readers will discover key features, workflow strengths, and unique benefits of each, enabling informed decisions tailored to their shop’s size and specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EFI PrintSmith Vision Comprehensive MIS software for print shops handling estimating, job scheduling, production tracking, invoicing, and accounting. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | EFI Avanti Integrated web-to-print and production workflow management system for streamlining print shop operations from order to delivery. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | FYI Robust print management software offering job ticketing, inventory control, scheduling, and ERP integration for print businesses. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | ShopWorks All-in-one print shop management tool for quoting, order tracking, CRM, invoicing, and QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | Printavo Cloud-based platform for screen printing and embroidery shops managing orders, approvals, production schedules, and customer communication. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 6 | RedTIE Print estimating and job management software with automated workflows, cost tracking, and production planning for print providers. | specialized | 3.8/10 | 2.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 3.0/10 |
| 7 | Elke ES Modular MIS solution for print shops providing job management, estimating, purchasing, inventory, and financial reporting. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Logic Print ERP and MIS software tailored for the printing industry, covering CRM, production management, warehouse control, and analytics. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Aleyant eAutomate Automated workflow and job management system integrating web-to-print, estimating, and production for print operations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | PressWise Web-to-print storefront with integrated job management, automated imposition, and production workflow for print shops. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
Comprehensive MIS software for print shops handling estimating, job scheduling, production tracking, invoicing, and accounting.
Integrated web-to-print and production workflow management system for streamlining print shop operations from order to delivery.
Robust print management software offering job ticketing, inventory control, scheduling, and ERP integration for print businesses.
All-in-one print shop management tool for quoting, order tracking, CRM, invoicing, and QuickBooks integration.
Cloud-based platform for screen printing and embroidery shops managing orders, approvals, production schedules, and customer communication.
Print estimating and job management software with automated workflows, cost tracking, and production planning for print providers.
Modular MIS solution for print shops providing job management, estimating, purchasing, inventory, and financial reporting.
ERP and MIS software tailored for the printing industry, covering CRM, production management, warehouse control, and analytics.
Automated workflow and job management system integrating web-to-print, estimating, and production for print operations.
Web-to-print storefront with integrated job management, automated imposition, and production workflow for print shops.
EFI PrintSmith Vision
enterpriseComprehensive MIS software for print shops handling estimating, job scheduling, production tracking, invoicing, and accounting.
Visual Production Scheduler with drag-and-drop interface and real-time capacity planning
EFI PrintSmith Vision is a comprehensive web-based MIS/ERP solution designed specifically for print shops, managing the entire workflow from estimating and order entry to production scheduling, inventory management, shipping, and invoicing. It provides real-time visibility into job status, profitability analysis, and automated reporting to optimize operations and reduce errors. Ideal for commercial printers, in-plants, and large-format shops, it integrates seamlessly with EFI's production hardware like Fiery servers and digital presses.
Pros
- Robust end-to-end automation from quote to cash
- Real-time dashboards and advanced analytics for profitability insights
- Extensive integrations with production equipment and third-party tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training needed
- High cost unsuitable for very small shops
- Customization often requires professional services
Best For
Mid-to-large print shops with complex, high-volume workflows needing scalable job management and ERP capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $1,000-$5,000+ per month depending on modules, users, and shop volume; includes implementation fees.
EFI Avanti
enterpriseIntegrated web-to-print and production workflow management system for streamlining print shop operations from order to delivery.
Fully automated JDF/JMF workflow engine that connects front-end estimating to back-end production execution without manual intervention
EFI Avanti is a comprehensive MIS/ERP solution designed specifically for print shops, automating workflows from job estimating and quoting through production scheduling, inventory management, and delivery. It supports complex print operations including large-format, labels, packaging, and commercial printing with deep integrations to RIPs, cutters, presses, and other production equipment. The software provides real-time dashboards, advanced reporting, and JDF/JMF automation for end-to-end visibility and efficiency.
Pros
- Robust automation and JDF/JMF integration for seamless workflows
- Scalable for multi-site enterprises with advanced estimating and scheduling
- Extensive integrations with EFI hardware and third-party production tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation process
- High cost, especially for smaller operations
- Customization requires professional services
Best For
Mid-to-large print shops with complex, high-volume production needs seeking enterprise-grade automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $5,000+ per month for mid-sized shops, including modules and support.
FYI
enterpriseRobust print management software offering job ticketing, inventory control, scheduling, and ERP integration for print businesses.
Visual drag-and-drop scheduler that optimizes production runs and resource allocation in real-time
FYI (fyisoftware.com) is a cloud-based job management platform tailored for print shops, sign makers, and graphic production businesses. It handles the full workflow from instant quoting and order entry to production scheduling, proof approvals, inventory management, and invoicing with QuickBooks integration. The software emphasizes automation and real-time job tracking to reduce errors and improve turnaround times in busy print environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive workflow automation from quote to invoice
- Strong production scheduling with drag-and-drop interface
- Seamless integrations including QuickBooks and file proofing tools
Cons
- Customization options require higher-tier plans
- Reporting features lack advanced analytics without add-ons
- Mobile app is functional but not as polished as desktop
Best For
Medium-sized print shops needing streamlined job tracking and scheduling without complex enterprise overhead.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, with Pro and Enterprise tiers up to $299/user/month including advanced features and unlimited users.
ShopWorks
enterpriseAll-in-one print shop management tool for quoting, order tracking, CRM, invoicing, and QuickBooks integration.
Advanced estimating calculator that dynamically calculates costs for complex print variables like paper stock, finishing, and press setups
ShopWorks is a robust, on-premise print shop management software tailored for commercial printers, screen shops, and sign makers, providing end-to-end workflow automation from job estimating and quoting to production scheduling, inventory tracking, and invoicing. It features a powerful estimating engine customized for print-specific variables like substrates, inks, and bindery operations, alongside seamless QuickBooks integration for accounting. Designed for Windows environments, it emphasizes detailed job management and reporting to optimize shop floor efficiency.
Pros
- Sophisticated print-specific estimating with support for digital, offset, screen, and wide-format jobs
- Comprehensive production scheduling and real-time job tracking
- Deep QuickBooks integration for streamlined invoicing and financials
Cons
- Dated interface with a steeper learning curve for new users
- Primarily on-premise deployment limits remote access and scalability
- Custom setup and training can add to initial implementation costs
Best For
Mid-sized print shops with established operations needing detailed, industry-specific job management and on-premise reliability.
Pricing
Quote-based, typically $5,000–$25,000 annually based on users, modules, and shop size; one-time setup fees apply.
Printavo
specializedCloud-based platform for screen printing and embroidery shops managing orders, approvals, production schedules, and customer communication.
Interactive Kanban-style job board that provides a real-time visual overview of production status and bottlenecks
Printavo is a cloud-based job management software tailored for screen printing, embroidery, and promotional product shops. It centralizes job scheduling, online proofing and approvals, invoicing, and customer CRM to streamline print shop workflows. The platform offers real-time job tracking via a visual Kanban-style board and integrates with tools like QuickBooks and PayPal for seamless operations.
Pros
- Intuitive visual job board for easy scheduling and tracking
- Robust online proofing and customer approval system
- Strong mobile app for on-the-go management
Cons
- Reporting features lack depth for advanced analytics
- Higher-tier plans needed for unlimited users or shops
- Limited integrations compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized print shops seeking a user-friendly, all-in-one solution for job management and customer interactions.
Pricing
Starts at $95/month (Essential, up to 500 orders/year), $179/month (Pro), $295/month (Premier); custom enterprise pricing available.
RedTIE
specializedPrint estimating and job management software with automated workflows, cost tracking, and production planning for print providers.
Automated marketing workflows for nurturing client relationships
RedTIE is a CRM and marketing automation platform designed primarily for financial services and insurance professionals, focusing on client management, email campaigns, task automation, and compliance tools. It provides basic customer relationship tracking and workflow automation but lacks core print shop functionalities like job estimating, production scheduling, prepress integration, or shop floor control. While it can handle general customer interactions, it is not built for the complexities of print production management, making it a mismatched solution for print shops.
Pros
- Solid general CRM for customer tracking
- User-friendly interface for non-technical users
- Marketing automation for client outreach
Cons
- No print-specific job ticketing or estimating
- Lacks production workflow and inventory management
- No integrations with RIP or print production software
Best For
Very small print shops needing only basic customer management and willing to supplement with other tools.
Pricing
Subscription starts at around $195/month for basic plans, scaling with users and features.
Elke ES
enterpriseModular MIS solution for print shops providing job management, estimating, purchasing, inventory, and financial reporting.
Advanced job ticketing and makeready planning optimized for print production ganging and nesting
Elke ES is a robust MIS/ERP software tailored for print shops, managing the full workflow from quoting and estimating to job scheduling, production tracking, inventory, and invoicing. It supports diverse printing processes like offset, digital, and packaging, with modules for purchasing, shipping, and accounting integration. Designed for scalability, it helps streamline operations and improve profitability in commercial printing environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive print-specific workflows including estimating and scheduling
- Modular architecture for customization to shop needs
- Strong reporting and analytics for production efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Custom quote-based pricing lacks transparency
Best For
Mid-sized print shops with complex production processes needing an integrated MIS system.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $200-500 per user/month depending on modules and shop size; annual contracts common.
Logic Print
enterpriseERP and MIS software tailored for the printing industry, covering CRM, production management, warehouse control, and analytics.
Advanced imposition and nesting engine that optimizes material usage for cost savings
Logic Print is a cloud-based ERP software tailored for print shops, managing the full workflow from customer quotes and job ordering to production scheduling, inventory tracking, and invoicing. It includes CRM, supplier management, and analytics for optimizing operations in digital, offset, and large-format printing. The platform supports multi-language and multi-currency setups, making it suitable for international print businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end workflow for print production
- Strong inventory and supplier management tools
- Detailed reporting and analytics for business insights
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited native integrations with external tools
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
Best For
Medium-sized print shops needing robust production planning and international support.
Pricing
Starts at €99/month for Basic plan (up to 5 users), €199/month for Pro, with Enterprise custom pricing.
Aleyant eAutomate
specializedAutomated workflow and job management system integrating web-to-print, estimating, and production for print operations.
Advanced JDF/JMF-based job ticketing for fully automated, error-free workflow orchestration across production stages
Aleyant eAutomate is a robust workflow automation and job management software tailored for print shops, handling everything from estimating and quoting to production scheduling, inventory management, and shipping. It excels in automating repetitive tasks through JDF/JMF standards, enabling seamless integration with MIS systems, RIPs, and web-to-print solutions. The modular platform supports variable data printing, customer portals, and real-time job tracking, making it suitable for streamlining complex print operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end automation with strong JDF/JMF support
- Highly customizable modules for specific print workflows
- Seamless integrations with popular print hardware and software
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Pricing is opaque and often requires custom quotes
- Limited native mobile accessibility for on-the-go management
Best For
Mid-sized commercial print shops needing scalable automation for high-volume, complex jobs.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $1,000-$5,000/month depending on modules, users, and shop volume.
PressWise
specializedWeb-to-print storefront with integrated job management, automated imposition, and production workflow for print shops.
Dynamic JDF/JMF workflow engine that automates job routing and production handoffs without manual intervention
PressWise is a robust print shop management information system (MIS) and workflow automation software tailored for commercial printers, handling everything from web-to-print storefronts to job estimating, scheduling, production tracking, and invoicing. It excels in integrating with prepress tools, RIPs, and finishing equipment via JDF/JMF standards to automate complex workflows. Designed for digital, offset, and wide-format printing operations, it supports variable data printing and real-time job status updates across the production floor.
Pros
- Powerful JDF/JMF automation for seamless equipment integration
- Comprehensive job management from quoting to shipping
- Strong support for variable data and complex workflows
Cons
- Dated user interface requiring training
- Steep learning curve for full customization
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be high for smaller shops
Best For
Mid-sized commercial print shops needing advanced workflow automation and equipment integration.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on modules and shop size; typically starts at $500–$1,500/month for mid-tier implementations.
Conclusion
The reviewed print shop job management software offers a spectrum of tools, but EFI PrintSmith Vision emerges as the top choice, combining comprehensive features for estimating, scheduling, and accounting to streamline operations. EFI Avanti follows closely with its strong web-to-print and workflow integration, while FYI stands out for robust ERP and job ticketing capabilities, each serving distinct business needs effectively. Together, they highlight the evolving needs and innovations in print shop management.
Start optimizing your print shop today by exploring EFI PrintSmith Vision—its all-in-one approach can transform your day-to-day operations. For those prioritizing web-to-print capabilities, EFI Avanti or FYI offer exceptional alternatives to align with specific business goals.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison