The digital common thread: An imperative part of your digital transformation

Companies that do not integrate their departments face isolated data, making errors and duplicate data entry inevitable.

Departments struggle to communicate efficiently with each other and do not always have the right information available.

Not integrating your departments can get in the way of solid service. Departments do not have the same information available, which can lead to communication that contradicts each other.

Not integrating your company's departments often results in higher IT costs because of the different smaller applications used.

Without integrated systems, scaling your business can be challenging. It can be difficult to seamlessly integrate new departments, processes or locations into existing operations.

Effectively documenting processes and specific product quality standards can be challenging without a unified platform.

During the development of new products, your engineering department can leverage data from other departments within the design process. For instance, by considering factors such as price, available inventory quantity and environmental impact when selecting components with multiple options. Furthermore, by gathering feedback from your final products, you can also design different and better models.

In an integrated workflow, work instructions originating from engineering can seamlessly transition to production. Additionally, an automated transformation process facilitates the conversion of engineering Bill of Materials (BoM) to production BoM. Furthermore, version control mechanisms enable the synchronization of product versions.

By integrating insights into production schedules, procurement ensures timely availability of necessary parts. Additionally, understanding sales forecasts becomes crucial, especially for components with extended delivery times.

The supply chain team gains a comprehensive view of all project-relevant items. They can monitor the status of ordered items, including delivery timelines, as well as track items currently in production. Additionally, leveraging insights, this department can make informed decisions regarding whether to manufacture certain components in-house or procure them externally. Furthermore, the team oversees the distribution of intricate finished products, which are shipped in multiple partial deliveries.

The finance department has the capability to request interim billing for a project, which is contingent upon the actual progress made. By receiving insights throughout the entire project lifecycle, rather than solely at its conclusion, the finance team can promptly assess whether costs align with project milestones. Additionally, the finance department enjoys access to cost reports at various levels, including both project and machine levels.

The service department gains valuable insights into specific customer products, allowing for a comprehensive view of collaboration with each customer.

Service technicians benefit from access to product information, including manuals for older products, service history, and knowledge about available spare parts.

Marketing teams gain access to product illustrations, pricing information, delivery details, and insights into customer service interactions. These resources empower marketing efforts to provide accurate information to potential new customers.

Sales teams can utilize 3D illustrations during interactions with new prospects, ensuring precise offers and timely access to delivery schedules. Additionally, this integration aids in creating accurate sales forecasts.