Automating your flexo plate ordering process: the power of integration between CERM and Athena Graphics

The integration between CERM MIS Software and Athena Graphics marks a significant step forward in automating the flexo plate ordering process. For label printers, managing flexo plate production can often involve manual steps, disconnected workflows, and unnecessary delays. By combining CERM’s advanced MIS capabilities with Athena Graphics’ expertise in prepress and flexo plate production, this partnership delivers an automated, streamlined solution that ensures precision and efficiency every step of the way.

A smarter workflow for flexo plate production

At the heart of this integration is a seamless workflow designed to simplify and accelerate plate ordering. It starts with a robust verification process within CERM MIS, ensuring all necessary steps—such as product approvals and template configurations—are in place. From there, job information is exported as an XML file alongside key subdirectories containing essential files, including approved artwork PDFs and order information.

This carefully prepared job data is then compressed into ZIP folders and securely transferred to Athena Graphics via FTP. Athena responds with real-time feedback using JMF messages, enabling clear visibility at all stages of production. Status updates such as “Athena Received” and “Athena Ready” are instantly reflected in CERM MIS, keeping operations in sync and eliminating guesswork.

Precision, efficiency, and error-free production

A further innovation in this workflow is the use of QR codes to bridge the gap between physical materials and digital data. Each flexo plate produced by Athena Graphics can be marked with a QR code containing the CERM product ID. Upon delivery, converters can scan the code to confirm receipt, ensuring that the physical plates are perfectly aligned with the system’s digital status records.

The automation goes beyond eliminating repetitive tasks—it introduces precision where it matters most. Integrated error checks minimize production delays and reduce costly mistakes, allowing operators to shift their focus from administrative tasks to strategic priorities.

A shared commitment to innovation

Athena Graphics, with its decades of expertise in prepress and plate making, has long been recognized as a leader in driving innovation for the packaging industry. Their dedication to enhancing workflows aligns perfectly with CERM’s mission to automate and optimize production processes for label converters.

"It is important to offer our customers the most advanced and efficient solutions, and this collaboration with CERM helps us do that and is a perfect example," said Ignace Cosaert, CEO at Athena Graphics.

We are incredibly proud to welcome Athena Graphics as a partner integration. This collaboration reflects our shared goal of delivering smarter, faster, and more reliable workflows to the industry. By combining our strengths, we’re helping our customers achieve new levels of efficiency and accuracy in flexo plate production.

At CERM, we believe strong partnerships drive progress—and we’re excited about the value this integration will bring to our customers and the industry as a whole.

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