Technology

Deep ERP Integration

Definition

Integration with enterprise resource planning systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and procurement platforms (Ariba, Coupa) for automated B2B ordering.

Context

Deep ERP integration connects web to print platforms directly with enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, and procurement platforms like SAP Ariba, Coupa, and Onventis. Unlike surface-level integrations that simply pass order data, deep ERP integration embeds print ordering within existing enterprise procurement workflows, including budget allocation, multi-level approval chains, cost center assignment, purchase order generation, and invoice reconciliation. This level of integration is essential for large organizations that require all purchasing, including print, to flow through their established enterprise systems.

Technical Architecture

Deep ERP integration typically uses middleware or direct API connectors to bridge the web to print platform with the ERP system. OCI (Open Catalog Interface) and cXML (commerce eXtensible Markup Language) are common standards for procurement catalog integration. When an employee needs to order printed materials, they access the web to print catalog from within the ERP procurement interface, configure their order, and submit it through the organization's standard approval workflow. Once approved, the order is transmitted to the print production system automatically, with invoice and goods receipt data flowing back to close the procurement loop in the ERP.

Web to Print Context

For enterprise-focused web to print providers, deep ERP integration is a decisive competitive advantage when selling to large corporations and government agencies. These organizations will not adopt print ordering systems that operate outside their established procurement processes. Providers like Flyeralarm Enterprise, Saxoprint Business, and unitedprint.com offer certified SAP and Ariba integrations, enabling seamless print procurement within corporate purchasing ecosystems. The integration eliminates maverick spending on print, provides full cost transparency across departments, and ensures compliance with procurement policies, making it a key requirement in enterprise RFPs for web to print solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do enterprises require deep ERP integration for print ordering?

Enterprise procurement policies mandate that all purchasing flows through approved systems with budget controls, approval workflows, and audit trails. Deep ERP integration ensures print orders comply with these policies, providing cost center tracking, purchase order matching, and invoice reconciliation within the existing enterprise system.

What technical standards are used for ERP-to-print integration?

OCI (Open Catalog Interface) is the primary standard for SAP-based procurement, while cXML is used by platforms like Ariba and Coupa. REST APIs and EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) connections are also used depending on the ERP system and integration depth required.

How long does a deep ERP integration take to implement?

Implementation timelines vary from four to twelve weeks depending on the complexity of the organization's approval workflows, number of cost centers, and ERP customization. Providers with pre-certified connectors for major ERP systems can significantly shorten deployment timelines.

Related Terms

Print MIS/ERP

Print MIS/ERP (Management Information System / Enterprise Resource Planning) refers to specialized software that manages the core business operations of a print company, including estimating, order management, production scheduling, inventory, invoicing, and business intelligence. These systems serve as the operational backbone connecting sales, production, and finance.

Enterprise Focus

A platform or service specifically designed for large organizations with requirements like brand control, multi-location ordering, SSO, and procurement integration.

Direct Mail

Printed marketing materials sent directly to recipients via postal services, including postcards, letters, catalogs, and self-mailers.

Digital Printing

Digital printing is a method of printing from digital files directly to various substrates without the need for printing plates, enabling cost-effective short runs, rapid turnaround, variable data printing, and on-demand production that has transformed the print industry.

Design Tools Included

Web to print platforms that include built-in online design editors, allowing customers to create or customize designs without external software.

DTG Printing

Direct-to-Garment printing, a digital printing method that applies ink directly onto textile fabrics, ideal for full-color, photographic-quality designs on apparel.

DTF Printing

Direct-to-Film printing, a transfer method where designs are printed onto a special film, coated with adhesive powder, and heat-pressed onto garments or substrates.

DAM Integration

Integration with Digital Asset Management systems for managing brand assets, templates, and approved content within web to print workflows.

Dataline Solutions (MultiPress)

Undisputed European market leader in MIS/ERP software for print. 1,000+ customers, 10,000+ users across 25 countries. Based in Bruges-Loppem, Belgium with ~50-100 employees. EDP Award winner 2019-2021.

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B2B Web to Print

Graphic Communications

Formally eProductivity Software (ePS) was formed when EFI's Productivity Software business was divested to Symphony Technology Group in January 2022. The company offers the MarketDirect platform for web to print storefronts, cross-media marketing, and print production workflow. MarketDirect StoreFront scales from small commercial printers to retail organizations with 1,500+ locations to enterprise in-plants with 190+ facilities.

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