Top 7 Operational Tools Manufacturers Swear By
As a manufacturer, you understand the importance of keeping your factory machines in top condition to maintain efficiency. However, when it comes to the other systems supporting your business operations, you might feel uncertain. This is a common issue among manufacturers who prioritise equipment but continue using outdated software for essential tasks like design or accounting.
This often stems from a lack of understanding about the tools and systems required to make your office as efficient as your production line. For example, you might believe that investing in IT systems is too expensive, especially when those funds could go toward machinery that directly generates revenue. However, these assumptions could actually hinder operational efficiency.
For example, hosting services like Blackbox Hosting can host all your software, like design tools and inventory systems, without the need for an in-house server. Similarly, IT companies like Redpalm Technology Services regularly maintain your systems and advise on necessary upgrades.
But that’s not all. As a manufacturer, you need the right tools for both efficiency and productivity. Fortunately for you, we have identified a list of 7 tools that manufacturers swear by and that you need for your business. Let’s dive in!
1. ERP Software
In a manufacturing environment, life becomes much easier with ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software. While it takes some time upfront to set up and train staff according to your processes, once it’s running, you’ll be able to keep track of all operational processes.
Whether you’re running low on raw materials or an order is stuck in a certain stage, you’ll be able to track everything smoothly. It also streamlines communication for your accounts department when working with vendors.
If you haven’t yet invested in an ERP system and your business is still growing, now is the perfect time to make the move. Implementing an ERP system will have a significant, positive impact as you scale your operations and streamline your processes.
2. Scheduling Tools
While ERP systems handle the “what” and “where,” you need a tool to manage the “when.” Some processes move quickly, while others take time. A scheduling tool helps you plan your production line more efficiently by considering these time factors. If you’re dealing with increasing delays in your facility, investing in a scheduling tool should be a top priority.
3. Quality Check Systems
A quality check system is essential for many certifications, but even if you’ve been operating successfully without one, it’s time to implement it. A quality control system does more than just ensure that your products meet high standards. It also helps validate your existing designs and identify any potential flaws. When your products are backed by a validated design and proven quality, it boosts your credibility and also drives sales.
4. Inventory Trackers
You may have semi-finished items in stock due to cancelled orders or other reasons. These items can sit in your inventory for years or be used when similar products come up in the production line. However, this is only possible if you have a reliable inventory tracker that helps identify dead stock and monitors whether you’re overstocking or understocking, based on past trends.
By implementing an effective inventory management system, you can maximise the value of your stock, minimise waste and keep production running smoothly.
5. Equipment Maintenance Trackers
As a manufacturer, you know how important it is to maintain the machines on the shop floor. However, manual maintenance tracking using maintenance cards is a flawed system that can fail at any time due to human error. To ensure that your equipment is in good working order, it’s best to have a dedicated tool that only tracks machinery maintenance. A dedicated maintenance tool also helps you identify minor problems before they become bigger issues.
6. Staff Management Tools
A manufacturing floor often operates in multiple shifts, making it difficult to track personnel using just Excel or time cards. A staff management tool streamlines this process by tracking clock-in and clock-out times, calculating overtime, and more. This tool is invaluable for both your shop floor manager and HR team, as it simplifies the creation of weekly and monthly employee schedules, improving efficiency across the board.
7. Dashboards and Reports
As a business owner, having a visual report that showcases sales, expenses, shop floor hours, and staff hours provides a fresh perspective. A visual dashboard makes it simple to identify inefficiencies, whether it’s a recurring shift with low productivity or a month with unusually high sales. These dashboards and reports give you a comprehensive overview, helping you pinpoint areas where improvements can be made to enhance your business.
To Conclude
As a growing manufacturing business, it’s easy to think that your product alone will help you become successful. However, there are many tools available that help take the monotonous work off the plate of your employees and let them focus on driving more innovation on your factory floor.
