Switching from an on-premise Practice Information Management System (PIMS) to a cloud-based solution like Shepherd can introduce changes that may initially feel confusing, especially when it comes to printing. Unlike on-premise systems that rely on local networks, cloud-based software requires a different approach to printer setup and management. This guide will help practices understand these differences and adjust to cloud printing with web applications like Shepherd.

With on-premise software, printers are directly connected to the clinic’s local network, making them easily accessible to all computers within that network. This setup ensures a fast, reliable, and straightforward connection without needing additional configurations beyond local network settings.

Since Shepherd is cloud-based, printers must be set up to work over the internet or through a secure connection. Unlike on-premise systems, where printers are recognized automatically on the local network, cloud-based printing often requires additional setup. Some practices may need to use third-party print services (such as Google Cloud Print or other cloud-print solutions) or configure networked printers that support remote printing.

On-premise software has direct access to locally installed printers. Any printer set up on the network is recognized immediately and can be used without extra steps.

With a cloud-based PIMS like Shepherd, printing depends on browser compatibility and internet-connected printers. Practices may need to ensure they are using cloud-enabled printers or configure print settings properly. This can initially be confusing, especially for clinics used to the seamless recognition of local printers in an on-premise system.

Printing is typically faster in an on-premise system because all data stays within the local network. This results in minimal delays and makes printing invoices, labels, and patient records instantaneous.

With cloud-based printing, data must travel over the internet before reaching the printer, which can sometimes introduce minor delays. If a clinic’s internet connection is slow or unstable, printing may take longer than expected. This can be a new experience for teams transitioning from an on-premise system and may require adjustments in workflow.

In an on-premise environment, clinics manage printer drivers and settings on their own devices or a central server. While this offers full control, it also requires clinics to manually update and troubleshoot printer software.

With Shepherd, software updates happen automatically in the cloud, meaning occasional updates may affect printing behavior. While these updates are designed to improve functionality, they may sometimes require printer reconfiguration. Practices should check printer settings periodically, especially after software updates, to ensure printing remains seamless.

For clinics transitioning to Shepherd, the key to successful printing is:

Moving from an on-premise PIMS to Shepherd’s cloud-based system brings many benefits but also requires some adjustments, especially when it comes to printing. While the process may seem different at first, understanding these key changes will help practices quickly adapt and ensure smooth and efficient printing within the clinic.