Main evolutions of my panel builder organization along the time (part 2)

The globalisation of information

We started with 3 computers bought at different periods that became rapidly obsolete and non coherent; now we have 15 that we have decided to rent to one supplier; they are renewed and updated each 3 years.
Then we tackled the issue of production, exchange, update, archive, of all commercial and technical data; we are proud that in all departments the same information, the same format, the same library is shared and permanently updated; if you click on a project, on a customer name, on a product, you will find only the one and right information; and on all that we have been helped by using OrganiGED software (a Document Management software proposed by Ricoh in France, not sure what is the equivalent in English)

Using software adapted to our job

We have always done a lot of quotations; answering to a maximum of tenders is for us a way to be visible and recognised; we respond to jobs from 3k€ to 500k€.
For this reason we need software capable to implement extremely fast quotations; this software was developed by us in partnership with another panel builder and is now compatible with Microsoft Windows.
Because we store the different cases on long period, it is very precise and we are measuring an accuracy of around 2%; the estimation for cabling hours is made through references to our data base ( based on number of cables or I/O terminals for automation panels, and surface of panel for electrical distribution), which is permanently enriched.
Then once we have the order, we transfer to the design department; the software they use there is AutoCAD linked to a very complete library; we are very happy with that and it is working as well for automation or electrical distribution switchboards.

And what about ISO?

I push 100 % the ISO philosophy in my company but I never applied to get the label; because I believe some aspects of ISO lead to implement some things that can be too complex, too heavy, too costly and it can affect ultimately the customer; I take the quality inputs of ISO, but not the administrative constraints !!!!
Of course we have set up all quality procedures, tracking systems, electrical tests, tools certification, etc… and we have been successfully audited by the major manufacturers or end users.
Thanks to that we are credible for new or retrofit even in critical applications.