Improving Engineering Efficiency With ERP Software

by Rexo ERP RexoERP

Examining and comprehending customer requirements listed on an order is one of the engineering department's key responsibilities. The engineer typically receives a print, a request for a quote, or a purchase order to accomplish this. These documents outline in one way or another what the client expects the business to provide.

The requirements must then be converted into a format that the organization can use. To advance the task from one phase to the next, this takes the form of a shop packet that contains instructions and some sort of routing. An itemized bill of materials, or BOM, is also included in the packet. The BOM is also used for purchasing and scheduling to order supplies and plan labor for the project. In many companies, information is communicated in fragments using several forms.

The engineering department's efforts can be maximized by employing ERP software services. There is a BOM feature in ERP systems. The manufacturing process is supported by this bill of materials. The delivery is different. The information is all contained in the ERP software rather than being created in a plethora of forms and communications.

Screens and views are produced in the software during system setup to replace the various forms. As with using discrete forms, the format and information will be the same. There is no need to print and distribute them, which is one of the differences. Wherever they are needed, they are electronically accessible around the clock. Instead, all pertinent departs are given computer access. Additionally, this makes revision control—a crucial engineering function—possible.

Revision control involves making sure that specifications are received, handled, and distributed. For whatever reason, a customer may send in a revision to a planning or finishing specification, dimensional specification, or another frequently crucial part of a task. The engineers must then examine these, make the necessary adjustments to the newly prepared documentation, and remove the outdated documentation from circulation. In a manual system, this includes keeping track of where all the information has been distributed in order to find it and make the necessary changes. Since the process is electronic, it can be made simpler by using ERP or manufacturing software. In many instances, a "flag" or email can be created to notify departments of a change.

The work-in-progress, or WIP, should not be overlooked. There must be decisions made regarding ongoing work when a change is made. Does the modification impact the WIP? If yes, how much work-in-progress do you need to request payment for? Once more, ERP software excels in this area. Engineering and buying may analyze progress without leaving their desks thanks to the reporting features of ERP systems. When they do get up from their workstations, it will be for a quick check rather than a detailed search.

Engineering departments can leverage manufacturing software, particularly ERP systems, as a force multiplier. Changes may be implemented more quickly and with more accuracy, producing superior work