They can quickly see, at a glance, even with no hands available to type, what projects are being worked on, their deadlines and what needs to be done.

There are two options I see. No. 1, you could hire a programmer to custom develop and/or further develop your existing database. This database could include the client's complete work order and have models for printing the job jackets. Databases you could consider include Microsoft Access, File Maker Pro or Alpha Software. If you need a more robust database, then Oracle SQL (it's free for the license) might be a better fit.

A second option is off-the-shelf "print shop" software. I'm not sure of a particular name; however, I'm sure that at your industry conferences and in other material there are many vendors of "print shop" job software.

What you need in any program is one that can grow with your business and is modular. You don't want a system that provides the functionality you need today but to expand it, you have to create an entirely new program and waste your development efforts and time. A program that can interface with other programs, such as accounting and shipping, would also be important to further streamline your operations and boost productivity.

It appears that you know your business and have done your best to calculate ROI. This is a good and necessary step. If you do not find an off-the-shelf program that meets your needs, work with a programmer (a local one, or check out ehire.com) who can build you a database for your specific needs. Ensure you own the rights to the software and that you thoroughly test it out.

I hope this helps.