New aero and defence software for SMEs

Enterprise (ERP) and supply chain management (SCM) software supplier, Lilly Software Associates (LSA) has just released its new ERP system for the European Aerospace & Defence industry, targeted at SMEs. Vital for aircraft makers, engine builders and Tier one suppliers operating in this sector, the new software – Visual Enterprise Aerospace & Defence – has introduced project and contract management capabilities integrated with its ERP and SCM functionality. Dick Lilly, CEO of LSA, commented: “We’ve added new modules to the software: contract administration; work breakdown structure; change order control; compliance reporting; project management, control and execution; and configuration management… All the functionality included in the larger, more costly ERP systems on the market but at an affordable price for SMEs.” Lilly says a typical 20-user system would cost around $150k to $200k (including implementation) to set up, depending on the number of users and software modules purchased. “It helps companies improve their execution of projects, better manage their project schedules, deliveries and quality,” he added. “The software integrates the essential ERP planning and control functions with project management and control architecture,” said Lilly. “The system ties every ERP function back to a project management control task and allows project managers to review every execution-related task to the overall plan.” Currently, LSA has around 75 UK customers, three of these in the A&D sector. According to Lilly, one of the company’s objectives over the next year will be to grow UK market revenues by £2 million.