Case Study

Success Story: Plasman Windsor Tooling

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From Skilled Hands to Scalable Processes

For years, Plasman’s CAM programming success was driven by the experience of its people. Skilled programmers relied on tribal knowledge, using workarounds, manual sketches, and years of intuition to deliver quality results. While this worked, it created real risks: processes were inconsistent, knowledge wasn’t documented, and scaling production meant scaling stress.

As demand grew, leadership recognized the need to move from craftsmanship built on memory to repeatable excellence powered by automation. The vision was clear: eliminate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and empower the programming team to focus on innovation rather than firefighting.

“We didn’t want our programmers spending hours repeating the same tasks. We knew a change was needed to free them up to innovate, experiment, and focus on what really moves the business forward.”

– Programming Lead, Plasman Windsor Tooling

A Collaborative Turning Point

Plasman engaged SolidCAD to explore options for streamlining workflows. A live OptiNC demonstration became the catalyst, showing the team in real time how automation could remove repetitive bottlenecks, standardize processes, and ensure reliable, predictable outcomes.

Phased Implementation Highlights

  • 3-Day Onboarding: Training programmers on OptiNC’s core functionalities, 2D/3D features, and live template creation.
  • 8-Week Structured Implementation: Weekly collaboration sessions addressing roadblocks, documenting progress, and tailoring automation to Plasman’s unique needs.
  • Proactive Communication: Detailed session recaps and next steps that kept both teams aligned and momentum strong.

This wasn’t just software adoption. It was process transformation anchored by collaboration and trust.

Measurable Business Outcomes

Nine months later, the results speak for themselves:

  • 70% reduction in programming time through automated strategies.
  • 16 hours freed up per week for value-added work.
  • 25% increase in machine output without additional headcount.
  • Higher first-pass yield and standardized, predictable outcomes.

What was once dependent on a handful of experts is now a scalable, repeatable process that supports Plasman’s long-term growth.

Looking Ahead

Plasman started with two OptiNC licenses, expanded into structured implementation, and has since grown its footprint with a third seat to support new machines.

A Scalable Foundation for the Future

“This change didn’t just improve our day-to-day operations. By standardizing our process and leveraging automation, we now have a system that can grow with our business.”

A Blueprint for Manufacturers

Plasman’s journey will feel familiar to many manufacturers balancing expertise and efficiency. The lesson is clear: scaling up is not about working harder, but working smarter. Investing in people, process, and technology builds resilience that lasts.

Partnership and Trust

“SolidCAD didn’t just sell us software. They became an extension of our team. They understood our challenges, guided us through every step, and made sure the solution fit our real-world process. It felt like a true partnership, not a transaction.”

To learn more about Plasman Windsor Tooling’s success with SolidCAD and OptiNC, visit our blog on how automation and collaboration helped transform experience into repeatable excellence.

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