Best tools to track and manage packaging artwork accurately

In this article, we’ll explore the top systems for packaging artwork traceability. From compliance to speed, learn how leading tools ensure every asset is accounted for.

Why Packaging Artwork Traceability Matters

Packaging is more than just design—it’s a legal and brand-critical asset. A small artwork error, like outdated allergen information or missing barcodes, can lead to regulatory fines, product recalls, or even harm consumer trust.

For example, in industries like pharma or food & beverage, packaging mistakes can lead to serious safety concerns. Even in CPG, where speed to market is everything, artwork traceability helps brands avoid delays caused by manual rework or missed approvals.

That’s why businesses need systems that offer complete version history, audit trails, and collaborative review workflows to ensure everyone—designers, compliance officers, and brand managers—is on the same page.

What to Look for in a Packaging Artwork Traceability System

Here are the must-have features that define top-performing platforms:

Centralized Asset Management

All packaging files—artwork, dielines, legal text, logos—should live in one place, not scattered across email threads or local drives. A centralized packaging asset management system ensures assets are searchable, version-controlled, and always up to date. This approach not only reduces the risk of errors but also saves significant time, as explored in our article on why centralizing your packaging assets saves time and money.

End-to-End Version Control

Having a clear record of who changed what, when, and why is essential—especially when facing internal audits or regulatory reviews. Top systems include full audit trails and automatic versioning. We’ve compared these features in our breakdown of the best artwork management tools for global brand, showing how they help teams maintain accuracy at scale.

Role-Based Access and Approvals

With complex packaging workflows involving brand teams, legal, compliance, and external agencies, not everyone should have access to everything. Role-based permissions ensure that the right people review and approve the right assets. Learn how structured approval workflows like this can streamline packaging approval processes and reduce bottlenecks.

Real-Time Collaboration and Annotations

Gone are the days of chasing feedback through spreadsheets and email threads. Modern systems allow teams to review, annotate, and approve artwork directly in the platform—making collaboration faster and more transparent. This kind of real-time proofing is exactly what we explore in our guide on how collaborative packaging proofing improves accuracy.

Integration With Other Tools

Look for systems that connect with your ERP, DAM, or PLM solutions to create a seamless artwork lifecycle.

Top Systems for Packaging Artwork Traceability

Here’s a breakdown of the leading solutions in the space:

1. Cway® Software – Best All-in-One Platform for Packaging Teams

Cway® stands out by offering everything in one place—from planning to final approvals. With smart tools for collaboration, automated version tracking, and a centralized repository, it’s ideal for brands, agencies, and printers who need speed and accuracy.

Whether you're launching globally or managing regional SKUs, Cway® keeps your team aligned with real-time updates and full traceability.

Explore Cway® case studies to see how top brands use the platform.

2. Esko WebCenter

Popular in enterprise packaging, WebCenter offers detailed tracking and advanced proofing. It can be powerful, but may require dedicated onboarding and support teams.

3. Innovatum ROBAR

Designed specifically for compliance-heavy industries like pharmaceuticals and medical devices, ROBAR offers strong regulatory support and electronic records management. While it's robust for regulated labeling and validation, it may lack the creative flexibility and intuitive workflows needed by brand and marketing teams focused on consumer packaging.

4. Kallik

Focused on life sciences and medical devices, Kallik is strong in audit-readiness but might be more complex than necessary for CPG workflows.

5. Loftware (formerly Blue Software)

Known for scalable artwork management, Loftware supports large, global operations but is often seen as better suited for companies with robust IT teams.

How Cway® Software Delivers Superior Traceability

Let’s dig deeper into what makes Cway® the ideal choice:

• Audit-Ready Tracking: Every edit, comment, and approval is timestamped and versioned.

• Visual Proofing: Teams can annotate files directly in the browser—no downloads or plugins needed.

• Smart Approval Workflows: Automatically route files to the right stakeholders based on product or region.

• Instant Notifications: Never miss a deadline with real-time alerts and status updates.

• Easy Onboarding: Cway® is intuitive and user-friendly, which means less training and faster adoption.

Cway® empowers teams to move faster, reduce errors, and bring packaging to market confidently. Learn more about how it compares to other platforms in our guide to packaging artwork approval software.

Wrapping Up: Top Systems for Packaging Artwork Traceability in Action

As packaging becomes more dynamic and more digital, traceability is no longer optional. The top systems for packaging artwork traceability give brands a competitive edge by helping them avoid errors, meet deadlines, and stay compliant.

If you're looking for a future-proof, easy-to-use solution that works across departments and borders, Cway® software is the smart choice.