Datatrack provides essential feedback on Mach-Tech's performance

There has been a continued appraisal of production systems and business administration to maximise productivity and provide the highest customer service levels. The company recognised that the ability to achieve key performance parameters would be key to success. Delivery performance, quality levels, quotation conversion rates and communication with customers were some of the key issues identified.

The time-consuming task of having to re-enter manually and repeatedly customer order information into spreadsheets needed to be addressed. To address this issue, Mach-Tech assessed possible software suppliers before selecting DataTrack software, which was seen as being suitable for continuous improvement, not least because its modularity meant that Mach-Tech could keep adding to the system as business grew.

Mach-Tech invested in the DataTrack Sales Order Processing modules covering the generation of quotations, the raising of works orders, control of component stocks and deliveries and the allocation of materials and processes to cost centres. These modules immediately gave the company a complete overview of some of the essential drivers within the business and a snap shot at any time of the company's performance in these areas.

For control of purchasing, the investment in DataTrack purchase order processing, goods received and materials stocks modules gave tighter control of suppliers and the ability to ensure the availability of all supplied materials and services to complete scheduled orders.

On the shop floor, DataTrack process layouts and shop floor data collection modules have provided essential information on machine capacity and the value of work in progress. Status Board visual displays give operatives instant and real-time information on the status of orders. In Mach-Tech's management offices, DataTrack is linked to the company's Sage accounts system. Invoicing, credit notes and purchase order creation are all taken care of and the information gathered by DataTrack from throughout the factory is used to analyse performance against KPIs.

DataTrack has improved specific aspects of the business. For example, ISO 9001: 2008 accreditation was achieved in 2011 and DataTrack has been used to track suppliers' material through the shop floor and give full traceability. Modernisation, efficiency and productivity are key motivators behind the success of Mach-Tech, and DataTrack has been essential. It will be used as an important element of improving operations still further in the future. For further information email [email protected] or visit www.psldatatrack.com.