Prime Packaging implements ERP/MIS from HiFlow Solutions

Chicago-based Prime Packaging has implemented a new MIS/ERP system provided by HiFlow Solutions for label and packaging manufacturers to help manage the business more efficiently.

The company operates roll-fed flexo presses that offer up to 11 colors using water-based and UV inks. Kevin Kollman acquired Prime Graphics in February 2010 and formed Prime Packaging. The company produces various labels and flexible packaging, including shrink sleeves, pouches for seasonings and spices and more.

‘We had an older MIS whose supplier had discontinued support some time ago and whose system ran on Windows 7,’ Kollman said. ‘We finally decided it was time to find a better technology. Some of the issues were the cumbersome reporting through Crystal Reports and a specialized language that made it difficult to maintain the functionality of the reporting. Our data collection and inventories were manual inputs versus a real time system. It was certainly time to upgrade.’

Kollman explored a number of options to replace the older system and determined that his best option was an on-premises system from HiFlow.

‘We started working with HiFlow Solutions in January of 2022,’ added Kollman. ‘It took some time to assess our current situation and build the server based on the information we could retrieve from our existing system. By July, we felt comfortable that the system was close to what we needed, so we ran side-by-side with our existing system to ensure we had all the data from our old system. In June of 2024, we went completely live with HiFlow and stopped using the old system.’

According to Kollman, the key benefit of HiFlow was the ease of integrating with third-party accounting software and the complete product offering from HiFlow.

‘For example, some of the systems we looked at required us to buy a separate shop floor data collection system, which is a standard module in HiFlow,’ he said. ‘Integration with QuickBooks was fast and seamless, with bi-directional communication. And finally, we had a good inventory system where we could track raw materials, work in progress and finished goods. We also like the flexibility of the reports we can generate through HiFlow and our ability to have access to real-time data and information across the entire operation.’

Kollman notes that about 80 percent of his employees use some aspect of HiFlow daily, and he appreciates the customized role- and rule-based dashboards that make it easy for them to know what they need to get done. When a new job comes in, all the information on the order, including specifications, purchase order numbers, etc., is entered into HiFlow.

‘In addition to a smoother, more productive operation,’ commenetd Kollman. ‘We are benefiting from being able to see things in real time, which allows us to achieve savings by correcting issues much faster. Furthermore, the estimating system we had with our previous system didn’t work for us. We were using Excel spreadsheets that made for a cumbersome process. Now, we have a great estimating system, and it’s very easy to compare estimates to actuals so we can continue to fine-tune our estimating process. We can also produce very detailed costing data, which we couldn’t do before.’

Kollman was also pleased with the implementation and training process with HiFlow, including the rapid response to any required customizations.

‘HiFlow records all of our training sessions, and we have them in a library for future reference in case someone needs a refresher or we are onboarding a new employee. That’s been a big benefit for us. We had been using the older system for 15 years, so there was a lot of change for our employees, and the ability to go back to specific training sessions was important for them. Change is hard, but as we worked through the new system, we can see the benefits for the company and our customers.’ Concluded Kollman.