Displays manufacturer discovers displaying data drives growth

Technology director Vernon Spencer says that customising the system, so that business-critical information is displayed in real time on screens throughout its building, has made the most difference. “Developing foils is a skilled operation and resource intensive, so we have a dedicated team of staff that are only involved in manufacturing and have less awareness of the bigger picture,” he explains. “This was creating communication issues as the sales team need timely information on order progress and capacity.” Now, its WinMan system, from SSL WinMan, automatically issues alerts and action requests at pre-determined process points for input from anywhere in the company. It also provides integration of stock management, relationship management, product traceability and workflow. Most significantly, having created a ‘Factory View’ systems for Gram Advanced Materials – which showed staff how their work was contributing to profitability – the company has integrated WinMan with its own visual messaging technology so that all staff now get the information they need, when they need it. “We are delighted with the result,” says Spencer. “The sales and production teams have commented that they can instantly see how their efforts are contributing to the success of the company and we now have a system that will grow with us.”