A critical factor for any project has to be maintaining the integrity of information or materials whenever they change hands. Any error in inputting data (reversing two numbers, for instance) can have drastic consequences down the line. The same case can be made for materials in process – parts damaged or sequenced improperly can delay a project timeline and add costs to production.

From Start to finish, any of the processes that require redundant tasks or information are automated or machine assisted.

Information Integrity

From the moment a bid is put in on a project, all data is stored in our Enterprise database. As the project progresses, data is added to the file, and modifications are made, but the project information remains stable. Once a project is designed and prepared for manufacturing, the critical data is moved from the engineering computers directly to the CNC machines on the shop floor. On receipt Labels are applied on all inventory – identifying specific stock for projects, then as the first cuts are made, part specific barcode labels are applied providing definitive identity and quick access to CNC files related to each specific piece.

Each step along the way, data is collected in real-time at the point of origin - providing instantaneous feedback throughout the life of the project, this ‘cradle to grave’ approach provides a closed-loop from estimating to general ledger ensuring data integrity, which is utilized for subsequent projects.

The use of accurate historical data inspires internal improvement and facilitates aggressive yet accurate scheduling and pricing.

Material Integrity

In the same way, one of the most important machines on the shop floor, doesn’t cut, or drill or press. It moves. Every piece of equipment on the floor is tied together with a European material handling system. This enables staff on the shop floor to move more materials, more efficiently than they could in a typical shop. This system reduces employee risk and material damage risk that are common with manual handling of materials – and that shows up on the bottom line in tighter schedules and better cost controls.

The labeling system provided through the ERP helps to maintain control over the materials while they pass through the shop. Each label identifies each piece according to: project, product and work requirements. The system prevents mishandling and misplacing of inventory and increases the efficiency of production.