EFI Acquires Shipping Software Developer
Just days before the EFI Connect users conference kicks off in Las Vegas, EFI announced that it has acquired shipping software developer SmartLinc Inc. Based in Milwaukee, SmartLinc Inc. makes software that optimizes the shipping process by allowing users to select the best carrier for their shipments. Print MIS/ERP products can automatically submit print jobs to SmartLinc software, which then tracks shipment status, cost and carrier information, and transfers this information back to the MIS/ERP system so users can have a more complete picture of expenses, job delivery and other essential metrics.
“EFI and SmartLinc have many joint customers who will benefit from further, streamlined integration between their MIS/ERP and shipping systems,” said Marc Olin, EFI’s chief operating officer. “Acquiring SmartLinc also presents opportunities for EFI to approach promising, adjacent markets.”
EFI will continue to develop and sell SmartLinc software, which will become the company’s core shipping technology offering. Currently, the software serves as the integrated shipping module for EFI’s Pace, Monarch and Radius MIS/ERP products. Over time, EFI will also create a new, SmartLinc-based shipping module for EFI PrintSmith Vision business management software.
Also this week, EFI launched the latest version of its Digital StoreFront Web-to-print eCommerce software. Available this quarter, version 7 of EFI Digital StoreFront combines the software's SmartStore Builder interface with advanced HTML5 tools for optimized Web-to-print storefront access across desktop, tablet and mobile devices.
With Digital StoreFront 7, in-plant managers can choose from a variety of pre-built layouts and themes as well as easily customize storefronts using the software's SmartStore Builder. Administrators can also perform advanced customization tasks with direct HTML and CSS editing. The software also features a re-designed interface for improved ease of use.
Using HTML5 and responsive design, Digital StoreFront 7 ensures seamless support across operating systems, browsers and devices. Each storefront design has been certified for desktop, tablet and mobile devices running Windows, Linux, Max OS, iOS, Android and Windows Mobile. As a result, in-plants and other printers can offer their customers the same world-class eCommerce experience at the office, at home or on the road.
