Selecting an Effective Design Approval Software

In today’s market, packaging's design and aesthetic are paramount in establishing a brand's identity and attracting consumers. As brands frequently update designs and manage an ever-increasing volume of files and collaborators, a robust system for managing packaging design becomes indispensable.

For those who've read “Product Packaging Software - What Is It?” and are intrigued by the software that handles the design approval for packaging, it's clear that such a system is essential for every brand. An effective design approval software streamlines the handling of packaging artwork, yielding many advantages.

However, as no two companies are the same, with distinct processes, challenges, and needs, selecting the right design approval software is critical. Real-world customer experiences demonstrate the variety of challenges and solutions, from overcoming bottlenecks caused by centralized knowledge and manual coordination to regaining control over scattered graphic assets and choosing a system with the necessary flexibility to avoid production delays.

How to choose the right tool for design approval for packaging

For organizations new to design approval for packaging, it's advantageous to partner with a firm that provides a strategic approach, helping to tailor and implement the process according to industry best practices and the specific needs of the organization.

It's important to evaluate whether a full-suite solution that encompasses both design approval software and additional strategic and operational services is the right fit, or if a more piecemeal approach is sufficient. Even organizations with established design departments might find value in expanding their capabilities, particularly for large-scale design projects.

A thorough evaluation of the current design approval process is critical. Pinpoint any processes that unnecessarily consume time, such as manual file transfers or other repetitive tasks that are candidates for automation. A holistic solution that offers both storage and project management features, and the capacity to handle various media types, can streamline operations by merging disparate systems into a single, more efficient one.

The goal is to adopt design approval software that integrates seamlessly with the organization's existing workflows, enhancing adaptability and efficiency. This system should support concurrent tasks and allow for the real-time entry of data throughout the process. In contrast, systems requiring complete data input before commencing work can introduce delays, impeding the smooth flow of operations and the achievement of consistency.

Specific considerations based on broader experience include:

• Chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturers require robust regulatory processes for compliance.
• Global brands need transparent platforms for managing numerous local translations and design approvals.
• Large assortments benefit from additional project management features to maintain order.
• Companies with varied brands or products need a system that can accommodate different processes and workflows.

The ideal systems are user-centric, developed with deep expertise in branding, packaging, design, and printing, and are informed by customer insights rather than being solely prepress or print industry-driven.

Benefits for the design approval process

An excellent design approval software offers: