TruePak handles planning, scheduling, tracking, creation and invoicing on jobs through a single web-based front end.

It has been developed by Derby-based Out of the Box, a new company co-founded by former Wace and Tecnograv managing director Ian Hewson, who is chairman of the company, and managing director Wayne Hawksworth, a former studio manager at Tecnograv.

The modular system is aimed at smaller printers, repro houses and design agencies, with prices varying from 10,000 for a single module to 70,000 for the complete package including hardware. Hawksworth said that the JDF- and XML-compatible TruePak's strength was that "it is in one integrated package."

"There is no further integration required, unlike other packages, and it is within one interface and one environment. It's in real time and it does what you ask it to. It's also easy to use," he said.

TruePak allows clients, printers, design agencies and repro houses to log on to a job simultaneously to monitor its progress and make real-time changes.

Changes to the invoice for each job are made as modifications are logged, as well as provisions for staff allocation and production planning.

It also automatically creates a filing system for jobs under categories such as clients, designs, versions and brands.

The software, which has been in development for just under two years, is the first off-the-shelf package from Out of the Box.

The six-staff company also develops bespoke software for companies in the graphic arts industry, with clients including packaging companies CPC and CMB.

Story by Josh Brooks