Re: Forms for AP checks

Bryan,

One thing to know that is a trade-off where checks are concerned.   If you 
want to PRINT the MICR (the funny bars at the bottom of a check that 
encode the routing number and the account number), then you have to use 
magnetic ink to print.   The printers often need to be specially built or 
configured for this capability.  Also the toner is expensive and should be 
figured into your cost analysis for ROI. 

If you don't print the MICR, then you have to use preprinted forms with 
the MICR already on them.  The rest of the stuff you print (logos, boxes, 
text, etc.).   Advantage, the form can change whenever you need it to 
without throwing out forms.  Advantage, physical control of the forms 
(checks can't be generated without access to THAT paper).  Disadvantage, 
you must maintain physical control over the paper or you're basically 
giving someone blank checks.  You may have to change forms in the printer 
if the printer isn't dedicated to this function. 

What I've seen people do is load the plain old laser printer with the 
MICRed blanks and keep the printer in a locked room.  Obviously, security 
over who is allowed to generate checks on the system is the same old 
"MUST-DO" that you have either way.

Hope that helps.

Michael G. Ellis
Information Systems International, Inc.
A Global ERP Consulting Firm
815-398-1670 x23
 
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Aristotle, Nichomachean Ethics


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Burns, Bryan" <burnsbm@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: <MAPICS-L@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Tuesday, September 16, 2003 2:32 PM
Subject: Laser printing A/P checks


> Looking to replace a Decision Data 6550 line printer with a laser 
printer
> for printing A/P checks.  Laser printing was my suggestion and 
Accounting
is
> open to the idea but would like some costs. Presently print about 200
> two-part AP checks a week on preprinted forms.
>
> Do we have to buy a forms package to accomplish this?  We presently hand
> stamp the checks. What would be the ballpark price for a bare bones 
forms
> package?
>
> On the other hand, we also line print about 200 two-part invoices a day,
> three-part BOL's on preprinted forms, and PO's on preprinted cut sheets
for
> a laser printer, so perhaps we should buy a package to do it all.
>
> Any recommendations?
>
> Bryan Burns
> System Operator
> ECHO Incorporated
> Lake Zurich, Illinois
> 847-540-8400 ext. 493
>