Survey reveals importance of standardisation in pharma labelling

A recent survey, performed by NiceLabel in cooperation with Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, has revealed the importance of a single, integrated label management system to overcome challenges encountered with producing accurate and compliant labels.

The survey, which involved a hundred key decision makers in the selection and purchase of pharma/biopharma label management systems, uncovered the major challenges faced by pharmaceutical manufacturers. These included document control, integrating label management systems with ERP/MES and other systems, web printing and scalability — which were outlined as the most common challenges in the current market.

An overriding factor that the survey respondents specified would assist in overcoming the challenges was that of a single, centralised platform for label design, change control, printing, integration and management.

“Only 14% of those surveyed have achieved 100% integration with their MES/ERP system,” outlined Ken Moir, vice president of marketing at NiceLabel. “Over 34% are still using separate systems to manage their labelling and marking printers. Having disconnected systems makes it extremely difficult to update and maintain label databases, and it means pharmaceutical manufacturers are missing out on the productivity and quality gains that can come from a fully-integrated label management solution. Ultimately it comes down to the safety of their customers, who can be adversely impacted by inaccurate label information. This is just one of the major risks that a modern label management system can help mitigate.”

Additionally, compliance with the forthcoming regulations was highlighted as a priority in the survey, with 80% of respondents stating compliance as a main driver when selecting a label management system. Over 60% of those surveyed specified that familiarity with the pharma industry and its compliance requirements as the most important factor when deciding upon a new labelling system provider.

NiceLabel is a global developer of label and marking productivity software solutions for SME and large enterprises.