A prevalent challenge for businesses is adapting their long-standing document management systems to align with current operational needs. These systems, frequently encompassing a variety of document types, data sources, and technological components, have been developed over time. Optimizing these systems for compatibility with modern platforms and applications is a key focus for many organizations.
Business-critical document and customer communication systems were developed to align with the technological landscapes of their time. Consequently, systems built on platforms, such as mainframes, utilized languages like COBOL, RPG, and BAL. Similarly, early PC server-based solutions employed document composition software tailored to the capabilities available at that time. As technology has advanced, newer solutions offer expanded features and functionalities.
Document Management System Challenges
Historically, print-generating programs produced output streams tailored for specific printer models from vendors such as Xerox and IBM. These streams incorporated embedded commands using languages like Xerox LCDS/Metacode or IBM AFP. While many organizations have transitioned to newer printing technologies, these original print streams and their device-specific control commands remain relevant.
To ensure compatibility between these established print programs and modern printers and electronic delivery formats, print transformation or print conversion software, known as “transforms,” is essential. Crawford Technologies has developed and continues to provide these transformation solutions, enabling organizations globally to extend the functionality and value of their existing software investments.
Companies Feel Stuck, But They Shouldn’t
Many organizations face significant challenges when considering the migration of their established print programs to new platforms. These projects often require substantial time and resources, as well as specialized expertise in older languages and methodologies, which can be increasingly difficult to find. The complexities associated with mission-critical print applications can often impede digital transformation initiatives.
Consequently, organizations may find themselves limited by their existing document management systems and their ability to adapt to evolving business needs. Crawford Technologies provides tools and utilities designed to support organizations in optimizing and extending the functionality of their current document management systems. Our proven solutions offer a practical path to achieve enhanced flexibility, performance, and digital transformation without undertaking a complex, long-term system migration.
Print Stream Transformations convert your printer-specific print streams into contemporary formats like PDF so you can print those documents on your new inkjet or toner-based print devices or deliver them electronically.
Operations Express takes those page layouts and adds tracking barcodes, repositions text, adds color, and more–all without editing the source code.
PRO Conductor is the production automation and dashboard monitoring solution that lets you connect all parts of the document production workflow. The platform gives you real-time visibility into operations, alerts you to problems or delays, and tracks performance
A Print Transformation Solution Exists
By leveraging appropriate tools, organizations utilizing established print systems can effectively address critical concerns related to regulatory compliance, staffing, budget management, and customer experience. Partnering with Crawford Technologies to achieve these objectives offers a significantly more efficient and cost-effective approach compared to undertaking extensive development projects to replicate existing functionality on a completely new technology platform.
Established document systems remain a part of many organizations’ infrastructure. By implementing the right tools, these organizations can successfully adapt to rapidly evolving customer communication requirements. When they are ready to strategically transition to newer digital platforms, Crawford Technologies’ print transformations will help make it manageable and within budgetary constraints.
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As we continue to innovate in document language translation, we are also providing a new, powerful option for our clients: bilingual PDFs.
Crawford Technologies is an award-winning, global provider of software solutions and services that help enterprises optimize and improve the secure and accessible delivery, storage and presentment of their customer communications.
