Evaluating one’s options when it comes to IT solutions can be a difficult and time-consuming process. In order to make improvements in the areas of performance, efficiency, and profitability, manufacturers need to properly research and analyze the information technology companies and products currently out on the market. Plex Systems has made a free online Manufacturer’s Assessment Tool available to to help manufacturers identify their best practices to improve enterprise and manufacturing operations. Plex Systems CEO Mark Symonds recently spoke with Manufacturing Business Technology about the Manufacturer’s Assessment Tool and identified some of its potential benefits.
Could you briefly explain the Manufacturer’s Assessment Tool and how it works?
The Manufacturer’s Assessment Tool is an online survey that is targeted to manufacturing organizations from a range of sectors: automotive, food processing, medical device, metal forming, etc.
After logging in to the free tool, participants are guided through a 10-minute online interactive assessment developed by independent researchers Aberdeen Group. Questions are grouped into categories covering plant floor manufacturing operations and operations at the enterprise level.At the end of the survey, participants receive a custom report that compares their processes, organizational structure, technology use, and more to best-in-class organizations.
What was the motivation behind developing the tool?
Plex Systems recognized that small to medium sized manufacturers are faced with a complex and lengthy process when evaluating the best IT solution for their specific environment, competitive situation, and organizational structure. As they go about this selection, they want to set priorities to bring them to that next level of performance, efficiency, and profitability.
Aberdeen Group is a well-respected organization specializing in the research and analysis of information technology companies and products.
This tool, which was custom-built by Aberdeen researchers for this purpose, helps solve this need, especially for SMEs, giving them access to a personalized PDF scorecard detailing how their manufacturing organization ranks against hundreds of others.
Why should a manufacturer take the time to use this tool?
Gaining clear insight into the current state of a manufacturer’s operations, from the production floor all the way to the shipping dock, inventory warehouse, accounting department and more, is a critical step for any manufacturer looking to improve its operations. That’s why over 500 manufacturers have already tapped into this powerful resource.
In addition, many participants have completed this assessment tool in well under the 10-minute timeframe. With such a small investment of time, the enterprise can access customized recommendations based on Aberdeen's research regarding ways to improve their on-time and complete shipments, OEE, inventory accuracy, quality, and compliance.
Enterprise-wide recommendations are also provided including improved supply chain management, inventory management, and other enterprise-wide process improvements.How does this online diagnostic tool achieve its goal of helping manufacturers improve their processes and better compete in the global economy?
Evaluating and implementing an ERP system is a high-value opportunity to drive out costs and improve overall performance. Instead of simply implementing software to mimic existing processes, manufacturers are wise to look for opportunities for real process improvement.
By completing this comprehensive online diagnostic tool, manufacturers can see clearly any gaps in the manufacturing and enterprise-level process, and close those gaps with strategic use of technology – thus reducing costs and becoming more competitive.
As an example, the on-line tool helps manufacturers assess the visibility of their production process at both the manufacturing and enterprise level. Through targeted analysis, the tool reveals how well the participant’s company can trace the flow of lots and components used in manufacturing operations. This is vital to industries that must comply with strict quality mandates and governmental regulations.
The tool points out resources that help them understand how to improve visibility, continuously improve quality, and maintain compliance with mandates.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
It continues to be a challenging competitive environment for manufacturers in a range of sectors. The assessment tool has emerged as a powerful way to identify top pain points around managing both the manufacturing and back and front office processes.
Participating manufacturers have benefitted from the recommended, actionable approaches for addressing these challenges.
To use the Manufacturer’s Assessment Tool, visit http://plexsystems.aberdeen.com