I have an FTP server, why should I invest in a StingRay?
October 27th, 2011So, you have an FTP server and want to know why you should invest in StingRay? OK, here’s a quick summary of the key reasons why this would be a valuable investment;
How it began…
The basic evolution of graphic arts and prepress file transfer requirements have seen a movement away from data being couriered on disks and drives, to multi-channel ISDN with FTP - the solution of choice since the early 21st century.
The problem with basic FTP…
FTP has served print companies well over the years but now customers are demanding easier, more intuitive ways of sending and sharing files. Customers and internal users struggle with FTP clients, invariably having to involve IT departments to either install software or open ports on firewalls. On the whole, FTP just isn’t a user-friendly way for your customers to share files with you.
As businesses strive for greater efficiency and a more cohesive approach to business processes, FTP has become a weak link - adding little value with it’s lack of integration potential.
The Future - Hermstedt StingRay
Hermstedt StingRay has been built specifically with the file transfer requirements of creative companies in mind. Whilst able to provide continued support for those customers wishing to use FTP, StingRay also provides an alternative range of features and file sending options which go above and beyond that of traditional FTP. They help to increase efficiency, streamline productivity and improve the bottom line.
Web Browser file transfer for you and your customers
Your customers will be familiar with web browsers, most are undoubtedly using them on a day to day basis. They are intuitive and StingRay utilises them to provide a simple interface for file upload and download, minimising IT involvement. Coupled with unlimited file volumes, concurrent connections and user accounts (the only limit is the size of the file upload at 2Gb) - StingRay’s Web Browser option is a great way of transferring files.
External Web Interface
Branding Options
StingRay raises brand awareness with your customers and their trading partners more readily than FTP. It’s Web Browser interface can be customised to reflect your companies look and feel, and to provide personalised customer details upon login.
Multiple File Delivery Options
StingRay offers a range of file delivery options over and above FTP. In addition to it’s ability to behave as a traditional FTP server, StingRay provides secure customer specific locations where files can be uploaded to or downloaded as required.
Files received:
Files can be received in a variety of different ways. These include FTP, HTTP(s), Email attachment and Leonardo-IP (a StingRay to StingRay protocol). Specific actions can be triggered when customers upload files, such as email notifications to internal and external users and the forwarding of files to workflows, file servers, RIP’s or DAM’s.
Files sent:
With StingRay’s user-friendly client application, your internal users can send files by simply selecting their recipient from a centralised address book or typing their email address into a Quicksend window. You can give your customers the option to receive files directly into their preferred file transfer system OR, download them by clicking on a dynamically created hyperlink in an email. As with files received, a range of email notifications options can be setup to alert internal and external users when a file has been sent or downloaded.
StingRay Client - Quicksend
Centralised tracking and logging
The great thing about StingRay is, however your customers choose to submit files - they arrive into one central location! All jobs can be monitored via StingRay’s desktop client application (available for both Mac and PC) and files can be previewed remotely and downloaded directly to the desktop. More importantly, this means it’s easy for users to centrally manage, administer and keep track of vital job information whilst StingRay maintains a full audit trail.
Security
StingRay’s secure file transfer options and auditing features can help your business to achieve PCI compliance and conform to the security criteria outlined in the Data Protection Act. It’s numerous security provisions minimise the risk of a data breach, safeguarding your business from potential fines and penalties.
Workflow Integration
Driven by customer demand (and we always listen to our customers), StingRay now integrates seamlessly with any XML compliant solution. It uses customisable web forms to capture unique job details upfront and then forwards this information into the workflow as an XML job ticket. In turn, this information is used to automate the passage of files through your internal systems, giving you the time you need to add value to your business.
Job Ticket Web Form
XML Job Tickets
StingRay’s XML job Tickets now use regular expressions, improving the quality of the data submitted to your workflow and increasing the scope of integration and automation that can be achieved.
Your existing FTP server may help you to get files into and out of your business, but does it offer you the same ease of use and the enhanced levels of flexibility, security and central management that StingRay does? Even less likely, does it have the potential to integrate with your existing technologies, helping you to further automate your internal processes? If not then your missing out on the opportunity to streamline your business, boost productivity and free time that can be devoted to adding that all important personal touch to your customer service.
Saying this, we do understand that the current financial climate means that we are all tightening our belts. That’s why we’ve put together the following ROI calculator to show you the cost saving StingRay can bring to your business.
