While many companies have been operating for quite a long time without a ERP software The need for a system that combines all processes quickly becomes clear to machine builders. The entire development process is illustrated here: From the design in the CAD (via interface or integrated) up to delivery.
Transparency is everything
Both large, established companies in mechanical engineering and smaller, young companies: The processes between design, production and delivery and, above all, their interaction quickly fall out of the management's focus. This is not due to their lack of expertise, but to the complexity of the processes, which are always dependent on mutual information. Information here means data from the respective business unit. For example, production must be synchronised with the logistics can interact, inform about any changes but also the construction (Interactive Parts lists).
This requirement applies to companies with both series products and customised machines. This results in the following challenges for the ERP solution:
The more frequently the company manufactures an end product, the more important it is that the ERP variants and repetitions can be checked and calculated. This could, for example, be ensured by a corresponding configuration tool in order to relieve the design department. Such a flexible ERP system can provide concrete (and correct) price information, even if the machine has not yet been finalised. Without an ERP system that has the relevant data from previous productions at its disposal, this is not possible. pre-calculation very error-prone.
React quickly, remain flexible, maintain an overview
In addition, machine builders must be able to react quickly to minor incidents, such as material defects. An ERP system that covers all processes also makes it possible to intervene in the ongoing process and update the data at all levels. If, for example, a material is faulty in production or fails due to a defect and is replaced by another in order to meet the planned time, the design department must be informed of the changed design. This is because the data from the design department is in turn available to the service department, for example, if faults or similar occur after delivery. In the event of any delays, the delivery department and therefore the customer should also receive the new information.
If no ERP system is available, the information is often shifted from department to department. This results in falsified or redundant data. This makes it difficult for management to understand in retrospect what the correct information is. With an integrated DMS a complete ERP solution provides quick help here. This means that all changes and adjustments can be easily tracked - even during the process.
Mechanical engineering: an industry in transition
As in almost every industry, competition in mechanical engineering is becoming tougher. Even if things have worked "just fine" up to now, suppliers from China and other countries are continuing to catch up. Their products are often cheaper and still meet the requirements in this country. However, local companies can service on site. Good ERP software is very helpful in order to present yourself as a flexible, modern and reliable company.
Find out more about the SAP Business One software solution for mechanical engineering.
We invite you to the SAP Info Day 2017 for plant and mechanical engineering. More about the event here.
ERP for discrete manufacturing - or why screws don't flow
AI for SAP Business One puts the user at the centre
Automated management of production orders
With a focus on production: Versino participates in SMS
Advanced production planning in SAP Business One
