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  • CRM and ERP Based CPQ: Exploring the Evolution of Configure, Price, Quote Systems

    CRM and ERP Based CPQ: Exploring the Evolution of Configure, Price, Quote Systems

    In the world of Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ) systems, the ability to tailor a product to specific customer needs is a critical component for any business. Traditionally, CPQ systems have evolved from simple text-based configurations to more sophisticated graphical interfaces. In this post, we’ll delve into the various types of CPQ systems and explore how SolidCAD’s Variant CPQ stands out by leveraging existing engineering data and advanced customization capabilities.

    Text-Based CPQ: The “Choose Your Own Adventure” Approach

    The most basic form of CPQ systems is reminiscent of a “choose your own adventure” book. Users navigate through a series of text selections to configure their product. These systems are:

    • Non-Graphics Based: Lacking any visual representation of the product.
    • Component Lists: The main output is typically a list of components needed to assemble the final product.
    • Limited Visualization: At best, you might receive a basic picture or drawing of the configuration, often leaving much to the imagination.

    While functional, these systems can be cumbersome and often fail to provide a clear and engaging user experience.

    Picture-Based CPQ: Visual Guidance with Limitations

    Stepping up from text-based systems, picture-based CPQ systems offer a more visually oriented approach:

    • Dynamic Images: As selections are made, the picture of the item changes, providing some visual feedback.
    • Incomplete Stories: Often, these systems only offer static images of the configurable items, which can leave users uncertain about how the components fit together.
    • Component Lists with Visuals: Similar to text-based CPQ, the main output includes a list of components and a picture or drawing at the end.

    While picture-based CPQ systems improve the user experience by adding visual elements, they still fall short in terms of providing a comprehensive understanding of the final product.

    Graphics-Based CPQ: Immersive and Interactive Experiences

    Graphics-based CPQ systems represent a significant leap forward, offering a highly interactive and detailed visualization of the product:

    • Comprehensive Visualization: Users can rotate, zoom in and out, and interact with a 3D graphic of the configurable item.
    • Advanced Features: Some systems allow users to measure or select individual components, depending on the CPQ product.
    • Programming Intensive: These systems often require substantial programming effort.
    • Disconnected Data: There is usually no direct link to existing engineering data, making it challenging to maintain consistency and accuracy.

    Graphics-based CPQ systems are powerful tools for providing a complete visual story, but their complexity and lack of integration with existing data can be significant drawbacks.

    Variant CPQ: Harnessing the Power of Existing Engineering Data

    SolidCAD’s Variant CPQ system takes CPQ to the next level by integrating directly with Autodesk Inventor (iLogic) data:

    • Built-In Logic: Variant CPQ uses Autodesk Platform Services to access the existing logic embedded in Inventor Engineering data, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
    • Customizable Models: Users can upload their own models, offering unparalleled customization.
    • Seamless Integration: By leveraging existing engineering data, Variant CPQ eliminates the need for extensive programming and ensures that all configurations are based on accurate, up-to-date information.
    • Interactive Graphics: Like the best graphics-based CPQ systems, Variant CPQ allows users to interact with a 3D model, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience.

    Conclusion

    The evolution of CPQ systems from text-based to graphics-based solutions has significantly improved the user experience, but each type has its limitations. SolidCAD’s Variant CPQ system stands out by integrating seamlessly with existing engineering data and offering customizable, interactive 3D models. This innovative approach not only enhances the accuracy and efficiency of the configuration process but also provides a superior user experience. By leveraging the power of existing data and advanced visualization tools, Variant CPQ sets a new standard for CPQ systems in the industry. To learn more about Variant CPQ, try it for yourself on our website, or contact us today at variant@solidcad.ca 

    The Future of Manufacturing: iLogic & CPQ Software Unleashed 

    The Future of Manufacturing: iLogic & CPQ Software Unleashed 

    In the ever-changing world of manufacturing, the emergence of iLogic-based CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) technologies, such as SolidCAD’s Variant, represents a significant turning point. These innovations are leading us into a new era characterized by remarkable efficiency and unparalleled customization. This blog will look into how the combination of iLogic’s rule-based engineering and the versatile capabilities of CPQ systems is transforming industry standards.

    We’ll explore the significant benefits that iLogic-based CPQ solutions bring to the table, including streamlined operations, improved product customization, and enhanced operational efficiency. By examining these cutting-edge technologies, we’ll show how manufacturers are now better equipped to tackle the challenges of today’s complex markets with increased agility and accuracy, thereby achieving higher levels of customer satisfaction.

    Come with us to explore the endless possibilities that new ideas are bringing to the manufacturing industry. This is leading to a future with no limits, only what we can imagine.

    iLogic: The Driving Force Behind Automated Design 

    iLogic, a key component of Autodesk Inventor, is revolutionizing the world of design automation. By allowing users to create rules that automate and control design processes, iLogic significantly enhances engineering efficiency. This tool is not just about simplifying tasks; it’s about redefining how we approach design in the manufacturing software landscape. 

    Decoding CPQ: More Than Just a Tool 

    CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) software streamlines the way businesses sell complex, configurable products. When integrated with Inventor models, this software empowers sales teams, dealers, and even customers to quickly generate accurate quotes, ensuring manufacturing efficiency and optimizing sales processes. CPQ is more than a tool; it’s a game-changer in the business solutions arena.  

    Real-World Applications of CPQ Software 

    The practical applications of CPQ software are vast and varied. From small businesses to large corporations, the implementation of CPQ software has led to significant workflow improvements and sales acceleration. Check out mk North America’s success story to see how CPQ made a tangible difference. 

    The Evolution of Manufacturing Technologies 

    As we look to the future, it’s clear that technologies like Variant are not just shaping current manufacturing processes but is also paving the way for a more efficient, productive, and innovative future in the manufacturing sector. Subscribe to our blog channel to stay tuned as we continue to explore these exciting developments in the world of manufacturing technology. To learn more about Variant CPQ, try it for yourself on our website, or contact us today at variant@solidcad.ca 

    Reflections on CIM Symposium 2023: Navigating Digital Transformation in Mining

    Having recently attended the CIM Symposium 2023 in Vancouver, I find myself reflecting on the digital transformation that the mining industry is undertaking. The conference served as a beacon, illuminating the path through the digital disruption that is reshaping our approach to projects.

    Digital Disruption Unveiled

    The overarching theme of the symposium was undoubtedly the digital disruption sweeping through the mining sector. It’s no secret that our industry, traditionally perceived as resistant to change, is now at the forefront of a technological revolution. The presentations echoed a collective acknowledgment that standing still is not an option.

    Communication as the Linchpin

    Amidst the whirlwind of technological advancements discussed, one resounding takeaway was the pivotal role of communication. In an industry where collaboration is paramount, effective communication is the linchpin that ensures all stakeholders, from contractors to communities, are on the same page.

    The emphasis on collaboration and long-term partnerships over transactional relationships struck a chord in the context of digital transformation in mining. The need for open communication channels, facilitated by cutting-edge technologies, emerged as a cornerstone for success in this area.

    Technology: A Catalyst for Efficiency

    The significant impact of technology was clear and noticeable. From AI-driven efficiencies in contracting to the application of 3D CAD images and drone videos in project execution, technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for unprecedented efficiency. The concept of Mining 4.0, as explored in various presentations, underscored the industry’s commitment to embracing the digital future.

    Sustainability: A Non-Negotiable Imperative

    Another echoing theme was the inexorable link between technology and sustainability. It’s no longer enough for projects to be technically proficient; they must also adhere to the principles of sustainable development. The discussions on ESG criteria influencing contractual obligations and the integration of sustainable practices highlighted a paradigm shift towards responsible mining.

    Adaptable Financing for a Digital Era

    Delving into the financial aspects of project development, the symposium highlighted the need for an integrated and adaptable approach to financing. Dynamic cash flow modeling emerged as a potent tool, allowing us to tailor financing packages to the specific characteristics of each project. This adaptability, combined with strategic technical due diligence, was positioned as a key strategy in navigating the complexities of project financing in the digital age.

    Personal Takeaway: A Call to Action

    As an industry consultant deeply rooted in the mining landscape, my key takeaway is a compelling call to action. The digital disruption we are witnessing is not a distant wave; it’s here, reshaping our projects, our relationships, and our responsibilities.

    Our role, as stewards of this transformative period, is to champion effective communication, harness technological advancements for sustainable practices, and embrace adaptability in our financial models. The CIM Symposium 2023 served as a rallying point, urging us to not merely adapt but to lead the charge in this era of digital transformation.

    In conclusion, the symposium was not just a collection of presentations; it was a collective pause, a moment of reflection, and a call to arms for the mining industry. As we navigate the digital disruption, let us do so with open minds, collaborative spirits, and a steadfast commitment to the responsible and sustainable future we are crafting for the mining sector.

    Unlocking Efficiency – An In-Depth Look at Accruent Meridian The Document Management Powerhouse

    Engineering documents and drawings are vital assets for any organization that needs to design, build, operate, and maintain physical assets. However, managing these documents can be challenging, especially when they are scattered across different systems, formats, and locations. How can you ensure that your documents are secure, compliant, and accessible to the right people at the right time?

    That’s where Accruent Meridian comes in. Meridian is a comprehensive software solution that helps you manage your engineering documents and drawings throughout the asset lifecycle. Meridian enables you to store, access, and share documents in a centralized and controlled way, while also providing features such as version control, workflow automation, and collaboration tools.

    But that’s not all. Meridian also leverages rendition and OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology to enhance document management, collaboration, and security. In this blog, we’ll explore how these technologies work and how they can benefit your organization.

    WHAT ARE RENDITIONS AND WHY DO YOU NEED THEM?

    A rendition is a copy of a document in a different format than the original file, usually in a non-editable format such as PDF or DWF. Renditions are useful for several reasons:

    • They provide a consistent and reliable way to view and share documents across different platforms and devices, without requiring the original software or application.
    • They protect the integrity and quality of the original source documents, which are kept for editing and revision purposes.
    • They reduce the risk of unauthorized changes or tampering with the documents, as renditions are read-only and can be digitally signed or encrypted.
    • They improve document performance and storage efficiency, as renditions are typically smaller in size than the original files.

    Meridian integrates with Accruent Publisher, a separate software component that renders and optionally publishes renditions to the same or to other document management systems. Accruent Publisher supports various rendering modules that can convert different types of files into renditions, such as AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and more.

    WHAT IS OCR TECHNOLOGY AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

    OCR, or Optical Character Recognition, is the process of converting scanned images of text into editable and searchable text. OCR technology can help you to extract information from scanned documents, such as invoices, contracts, or reports, and store it in Meridian as metadata or content.

    Meridian uses OCR technology in two ways:

    • To index the content of scanned documents for full-text search. This allows you to find documents based on their content, not just their properties or file names.
    • To extract data from scanned documents and map it to Meridian properties. This allows you to automatically populate document properties based on the information in the scanned files, such as document number, title, author, date, etc.

    By using OCR technology, Meridian helps you to unlock the power of scanned documents and reduce manual data entry.

    HOW DOES MERIDIAN ENSURE DOCUMENT SECURITY AND COMPLIANCE

    Document security and compliance are critical for any organization that deals with sensitive or regulated information. Meridian ensures document security and compliance by:

    • Using a centralized repository with secure global access to store and manage documents, ensuring that only authorized users can view and edit them.
    • Supporting various rendering modules that can convert different types of files into non-editable renditions, such as PDF or DWF, for reference, printing, or distribution purposes.
    • Integrating with network and application firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and multi-factor authentication to keep data repositories safe from intruders.
    • Applying security roles to the folders of a vault, which defines the privileges of the members of the role. The members can be network domain groups, Meridian Enterprise groups, or individual user accounts.
    • Enforcing document workflow statuses, which restrict the actions that users can perform on a document depending on its state. For example, only the owner of a document can change it when it is in the Under Change state.

    HOW ACCRUENT MERIDIAN CONNECTS WITH OTHER APPLICATIONS TO BOOST DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT EFFICIENCY

    Accruent Meridian is not just a standalone software solution. It also connects with other applications to enhance document management efficiency and collaboration. Whether you need to work with 2D & 3D CAD applications, EAM software, or other document management systems, Meridian has you covered.

    APPLICATION INTEGRATION: WORK WITH YOUR FAVOURITE CAD APPLICATIONS

    If you use popular 2D & 3D CAD applications like Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Revit, and Solidworks, you can integrate them with Meridian and enjoy the following benefits:

    • You can access and manage your documents directly from your CAD application, without switching between different systems.
    • You can view the latest and most accurate information about your assets and their documentation, ensuring compliance and safety.
    • You can initiate document change requests from your maintenance management system, triggering workflows and notifications in Meridian.
    • You can link your maintenance work orders to your engineering documents, ensuring traceability and accountability.

    DMS INTEGRATION: COLLABORATE AND SHARE DOCUMENT WITH OTHER DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

    If you use other document management systems like SharePoint, Documentum, or OpenText, you can integrate them with Meridian and enjoy the following benefits:

    • You can collaborate and share documents with other departments or external parties, without compromising security or quality.
    • You can publish renditions of your documents to other document management systems, ensuring that everyone has access to the same information.
    • You can synchronize metadata and content between Meridian and other document management systems, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
    • You can leverage the best features of each system for different purposes, such as document creation, review, approval, distribution, or archiving.

    WANT TO LEARN MORE?

    For those interested in exploring the capabilities of Accruent Meridian and how it can revolutionize their document management processes, the SolidCAD website offers valuable insights and the opportunity to schedule a demo.

    In a world where information is power, Accruent Meridian empowers organizations to harness the full potential of their documents, streamline workflows, and enhance security, ultimately driving efficiency and success.

    To learn more about how Accruent Meridian can help you integrate your EDMS with other software applications, contact us today  SolidCAD Meridian Team. We would love to hear from you and show you how Accruent Meridian can transform your engineering document management process.

    NextGen Mold

    Success Stories

    NextGen Mold

    Nectgen mold

    NextGen Mold Technologies was founded in 2021, following the acquisition of Enterprise Mold. Based in Windsor, Ontario, they have quickly established a strong reputation in the injection mold industry. The wide array of equipment and 24/7 shift structure allows NextGen to offer their partners quick and effective turnaround on feasibility, design, mold maintenance, engineering changes, repairs, and new tooling. 

    The idea at NextGen is to use the most practical tools available to them, balancing cost and efficiency while prioritizing their ability to meet customer standards. This had led them to great success and rapid growth. They’ve purchased 3 new machines in the last year alone and strive to keep that momentum going forward. 

    Implementing PowerMill with Hands-On Local Support for Reduced Cost and Production Time

    Challenge:

    Being a new player in the industry can present many challenges; one of the more challenging hurdles for NextGen Mold quickly became recruitment. It was integral for them to hit the ground running, which required hiring the right people out of the gate to have the resources they needed to succeed.

    This was especially challenging as NextGen was a new startup in the peak of the pandemic. Along with overcoming the usual recruitment difficulties incumbent with a skilled labour shortage, cash flow considerations were also a critical factor at this time. NextGen needed a partnership that understood these challenges and offered the flexibility required to support a favourable outcome during uncertain times. They also needed a powerful design software with low setup time, that could easily integrate with their machining software to ensure efficiency and avoid any unnecessary delays.

    Solution:

    Understanding the importance of meeting our client’s needs, SolidCAD was able to offer flexible payment terms and dedicated customer support to promote a smooth setup experience and offer ongoing technical support. The sales and technical teams have unparalleled industry experience, understanding the challenges and needs a new business may face. They worked collaboratively to offer pertinent, timely, and customized solutions to support NextGen at the start of their journey.

    After assessing NextGen’s needs and providing guidance, they decided to go with PowerMill and Fusion 360 Probing. Training their team was integral to a strong start. Fusion 360 provided powerful software with a simple interface for ease of use, especially when it comes to training. Additionally, the integration with PowerMill avoided unnecessary duplication of work or lost data. NextGen highlighted their experience with SolidCAD’s customer service as a positive experience, specifically the turnaround time for quotes and seats, and extensive product knowledge as characteristics which set SolidCAD apart.

    Results:
    • Technical training allowed NextGen to give their team the tools, knowledge and resources they needed to succeed.
    • NextGen have been using Fusion 360 on the Parpas finishing machine to inspect/CMM jobs to verify they are cut to data, ensuring consistent and high-quality results.
    • Fusion 360 Probing has helped reduce rework rates and save unnecessary set-up time.

    Testimonial

    SolidCAD meets and exceeds expectations offering tried and tested CAD solutions.

    - Alain Balyan, Machining Manager at NextGen Mold

    Products & Services Used

    Similar Projects

    Circle 5

    Founded in 1987, Circle 5 has established itself as a leader in the manufacturing and prototyping industry. Their expertise in machining both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, combined with their state-of-the-art multi-axis CNC and EDM capabilities,…
    Manufacture Scorpion Success Story

    Manufacture Scorpion

    Manufacture Scorpion is a manufacturer/distributor whose mission is to make the world’s best pneumatics and vacuum technologies available quickly and easily to North American companies. As the largest Pneumax partner, they have exclusive agreements with…

    RGTECH

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    Circle 5

    Success Stories

    Circle 5

    Founded in 1987, Circle 5 has established itself as a leader in the manufacturing and prototyping industry. Their expertise in machining both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, combined with their state-of-the-art multi-axis CNC and EDM capabilities, sets them apart.

    The injection mold company started over 35 years ago with 5 partners, giving them the 5 in their company name. They mainly service the automotive industry at 70% of their capacity while the remaining 30% is in medical, seating, farm equipment, and home products. They are focused on a diversity of products while keeping automotive at its core.

    Despite the challenges faced by many in this industry, Circle 5 continues to grow, break new ground, and embrace new technologies. Their positive outlook and commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and value for their clients is always their top priority

    Implementing PowerMill with Hands-On Local Support for Reduced Cost and Production Time

    The Challenge

    Having risen to champion many of the current industry challenges, Circle 5 have been able to find continued success and made plans for expansion. This presented a new challenge, as their current software was not able to support them in this expansion and, additionally, the costs of the software itself were continuously rising. Realizing they needed a new partner to help them achieve their goals for the future, they reached out to SolidCAD to start the collaboration.

    The Solution

    As an industry leader, Circle 5’s customers expect high quality and consistency at all times. This means that they need a software solution that is extremely flexible and can be custom tailored to their needs. They were already using PowerMill in a limited capacity and wanted to see what it could do across the company. SolidCAD’s team agreed that this would be the best solution for them and were able to offer the technical expertise that Circle 5 needed to fully make the switch. In the implementation process, local support was extremely pivotal to the migration. The team spent several weeks on site installing the system and helping to build a new process for Circle 5 to make their products.

    The Results
    • Customization and automation have been the key to improving their business operation
    • The implementation of PowerMill has allowed for lower user input
    • Their new process decreases both cost and turn around time

    Testimonial

    To other companies that are in our position: Buy into learning with SolidCAD. It’s worth developing that relationship. It’s in the name, they are solid!

    - Terry Bennett, Special Projects Manager, Circle 5

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    Manufacture Scorpion Success Story

    Manufacture Scorpion

    Manufacture Scorpion is a manufacturer/distributor whose mission is to make the world’s best pneumatics and vacuum technologies available quickly and easily to North American companies. As the largest Pneumax partner, they have exclusive agreements with…

    RGTECH

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    Mega Mold International Inc.

    Mega Mold produces the best world class tooling for the automotive, industrial and consumer markets.  For over 28 years, their team of specialists deliver tooling that is superior in class for cycle time and part…

    Procepack

    Success Stories

    Procepack

    PROCEPACK is a firm specializing in the purchase and sale of packaging and process equipment. They serve customers from a wide range of industries from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals. They leverage their vast and established network of partners to source the best materials to meet their customer bases’ diverse needs.

    Facing the Future Together – Increasing Productivity and Efficiency with Inventor Pro and Vault Pro

    The Challenge

    PROCEPACK found success with their previous software, creating high-quality products for their customers, but they knew they were capable of more. As they planned for the future, they began to feel frustrated by lack of communication with their former software provider and felt like their business needs were not being truly understood. Their questions were often met with estimates rather than conversations and they began to feel ignored. As a company who value partnership and strong business relationships with their customers, they knew they needed to find a software provider who felt the same way.

    Additionally, offering custom packaging presents its own challenge. PROCEPACK needed software that they could fully rely on to create high-quality fully customizable designs in a cost-efficient and time-efficient manner. With such a vast customer base, they needed a system that could accommodate the ever-changing needs of not just their industry, but the industries of all their customers.

    The Solution

    PROCEPACK connected with SolidCAD, not only looking for software solutions, but for a long-term partner to support their continued growth. They had several conversations with the SolidCAD team to discuss their goals and needs and worked together to find a solution.

    They decided to upgrade to Inventor Pro to insure they could create custom designs accurately and consistently. Additionally, after further understanding PROCEPACK’s vision and needs, our team recommended Vault Pro to facilitate easy and flexible document management across teams.

    Confident with our new partnership, and impressed by the skill of our technical staff, PROCEPACK also opted for custom programming to increase efficiency and reduce unnecessary time and money spent on tasks that were easily automated. Our teams continue to communicate regularly and maintain a strong relationship as we grow together into the digital future.

    The Results
    • PROCEPACK have been able to increase productivity
    • Reduced cost through automation of their environment, including their ERP
    • Documents can be easily accessed online without the need for physical records
    • Both SolidCAD and PROCEPACK have gained a strong partnership and built a positive relationship for years to come

    Testimonial

    We found the SolidCAD team to have great service and availability. There were no hidden fees or additional charges and they always responded quickly to any questions we had. The service was truly turnkey and ready for use. All in all their work was beyond our expectations.

    – Lorie-Ann F.Bouchard, General Manager at Procepack

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    Environmental Acoustics Inc.

    Located in Mississauga, Ontario, Environmental Acoustics Inc is an exclusive distributor of the LogiSon® Acoustic Network. This networked sound masking, paging, and music system is recognized as an industry leader that’s installed in hundreds of…

    How Accruent Meridian Aligns with Agile Principles

    Accruent Meridian is an engineering document management system (EDMS) that helps organizations streamline document management, ensure safety and compliance, maximize collaboration, and achieve a single source of asset information. But how does it align with the agile principles that guide many software development teams today?

    The agile principles are statements that define the agile methodology and act as best practices for agile teams. The agile principles and core values are documented in the agile manifesto, a brief document that defines agile. Agile principles also apply to other project management methodologies derived from agile, such as kanban or scrum.

    In this blog post, we will explore how Accruent Meridian supports some of the key agile principles and how it can benefit your engineering projects.

    Agile Principle 1: Satisfy the Customer Through Early and Continuous Delivery of Value Software

    The first principle of agile is to deliver value to the customer frequently and consistently. This means that instead of waiting for a long time to release a final product, agile teams deliver small increments of working software that can be tested and validated by the customer.

    Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by enabling you to manage and share engineering documents across the entire asset lifecycle. You can easily create, review, approve, distribute, and access documents from any device, anywhere, anytime. You can also track changes, revisions, and versions of documents to ensure accuracy and consistency. By using Accruent Meridian, you can deliver valuable information to your customers and stakeholders faster and more reliably.

    Accruent Meridian helps you streamline document management, ensure safety and compliance, maximize company-wide collaboration, and achieve a single source of asset information.

    Agile Principle 2: Welcome Changing Requirements, Even Late in Development

    The second principle of agile is to embrace change as an opportunity to deliver better value. This means that instead of resisting or avoiding changes in requirements, agile teams welcome them and adapt their plans accordingly.

    Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by providing you with flexible and configurable workflows that can accommodate changing needs and expectations. You can easily modify or create new workflows to suit different types of documents, projects, or processes. You can also use Meridian Explorer to search and browse documents by metadata properties or text content. You can filter your search results by specific values or criteria to find the most relevant documents for your current situation.

    Accruent Meridian provides you with flexible and configurable workflows that can accommodate changing needs and expectations.

    Agile Principle 4: Business People and Developers Must Work Together Daily Throughout the Project

    The fourth principle of agile is to foster collaboration between business people and developers. This means that instead of working in silos or communicating sporadically, agile teams work together daily throughout the project to ensure alignment and understanding.

    Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by enabling you to integrate with other systems and applications that are used by different stakeholders in your organization. You can connect Meridian with ERP, CMMS, GIS, CAD, BIM, Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and more. This way, you can ensure that everyone has access to the same information and can collaborate effectively across different platforms.

    Accruent Meridian enables you to integrate with other systems and applications that are used by different stakeholders in your organization.

    Agile Principle 7: Working Software Is the Primary Measure of Progress

    The seventh principle of agile is to measure progress by delivering working software. This means that instead of relying on documentation or reports, agile teams demonstrate their work by showing functional software that meets the customer’s needs.

    Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by allowing you to publish and distribute documents in various formats that are compatible with different devices and systems. You can export documents as PDFs, DWGs, DWFs, TIFFs, JPEGs, PNGs, etc. You can also use the Meridian mobile application to access documents on your smartphone or tablet. By using Accruent Meridian, you can show your work in a way that is convenient and accessible for your customers.

     

    Case Studies & Testimonials

    • Staples, a leading office products company, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 1.5 million engineering documents across 2,000 stores in North America. Accruent Meridian helps Staples reduce costs, improve compliance, and increase productivity.

    Reference: Featured Customers

    • GNC, a global health and wellness retailer, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 300,000 engineering documents for more than 8,000 locations worldwide. Accruent Meridian helps GNC streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and ensure data accuracy.

    Reference: Featured Customers

    • Total Olefins Antwerp, a petrochemical company, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 300,000 engineering documents and 150,000 objects for its plants in Belgium. Accruent Meridian helps Total Olefins Antwerp optimize engineering change processes, integrate with other systems, and link documents with assets.

    Reference: Total Case Study

    • AbbVie, a biopharmaceutical company, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 100,000 engineering documents for its manufacturing facilities in the US and Europe. Accruent Meridian helps AbbVie maximize efficiency, improve communication, and ensure compliant control of engineering information.

    Reference: AbbVie Case Study

    Conclusion

    Accruent Meridian is a powerful EDMS that can help you align your engineering projects with the agile principles. By using Accruent Meridian, you can deliver value to your customers faster and more reliably, embrace change as an opportunity to improve, foster collaboration across different stakeholders, and measure progress by delivering working software.

    Accruent Meridian offers you powerful search, ease of use, extensive configurability, and scalability with its Meridian Explorer feature.

    If you want to learn more about how Accruent Meridian can help you achieve agility in your engineering projects, request a demo today!

    Don’t hesitate to get in touch with the SolidCAD Meridian team.

    Doing more with Location Codes and the Location View in AutoCAD Electrical

    A feature that is sometimes overlooked when working with AutoCAD Electrical, is the “Location Code”. This field shown on Figure 1, and can be found inside the edit component window inside the schematic or panel footprints.

    The Location Code can be used to help us better organize our drawings, specially when we are working with large projects that can contain dozens of drawings and hundreds of components.

    Figure 1

    By making sure that we use the location code in all our components, it helps us create more precise “Reports”, like a Bill of Material for a specific location, and it gives us more control on how we manage and explore our drawings by using the “Location View”.

    When we are creating any kind of report, we have the option to select specific “Location Codes to Extract” as seen in Figure 2. This will help us narrow down the report to only the components that have been to be used in that specific location, helping us create a more precise report that focuses in only the components that we need to see instead of all the components of a specific drawing or project.

    Figure 2
    Figure 3

    Another useful tool that is rarely used with AutoCAD Electrical, is the “Location View” that becomes useful only when you start using location codes as part of your components.

    The Location View can be found inside the Project Manager and its grouped as follows: project name > installation code > names of the locations.

    In Figure 3 we can see an example of a project called “Module 04”, no installation code (depicted as questions marks), then all the available location codes used in that project. From here we see that above the “CABINET” location we have a location named (??), which indicates that there are schematic components that do not have been assigned a location code.

    From this Location View we can also expand any of the existing locations so we can see all the components that have been assigned to that specific location. We also have the ability to “Surf” and navigate to that specific component directly from this tab making it easier to search and find any specific components directly from this view. The surf command is also available for all the components labeled as (??) so we can navigate to where they are located inside our drawings and proceed to assign a specific location, until all the components have a location code.

    For more information on AutoCAD Electrical, contact us today!

    Vault Pro 2024, new job processor functions!

    With the release of Vault Professional 2024, Autodesk add two new job process into their job processor tool.

    STEP and DXF are now added to the current PDF functionality. These new functionalities could be done by lifecycles states or manually on demand.

    On demand function will appear into the standard Vault Toolbar or also into the action menu

    DXF Options is available for 3 file types, 2D Inventor, 2D Autocad and Inventor 3D Flat pattern.

    STEP file option is only for Inventor .IPT and .IAM files.

    As the actual PDF option, you can specify publish options inside or outside the Vault. But take note that for the DXF Flat pattern, it’s impossible to specify a custom .ini file to generate the DXF with your custom configuration! We expect that this functionality will be added in a next available service pack or a possible workflow to modify the generic setup. I will keep you updated with another post when a solution will be available.

    For Lifecycle change state options you will find these options into the transition action Tab and the three small dots on the “Synchronize properties and update the selected file types using the Job Server”.

    Take note that if you choose the two DXF options you will have by default two .DXF files. By default the Vault naming rules are the “filename + actual file extension + .dxf”.

    Ex: if you have a file name as part 123.ipt with drawing 123.idw you will have 123.ipt.dxf and 123.idw.dxf.

    If you prefer to don’t have the original file extension into your .dxf, please don’t add two DXF options in same time.

     

    Now, how to change the DXF or STEP file naming default?

    As the actual PDF, you simply need to modify or add this following line into the JobProcessor.exe.config file.

    1.1)    <add key=”DesignRepresentation.Naming” value=”\.(idw|dwg|ipt|iam)$/&lt;_name_&gt;”/>

    I suggest this link to see more about file naming options: https://help.autodesk.com/view/VAULT/2024/ENU/?guid=GUID-F05BFEAF-A362-4070-BBA6-F3A74602967E

    The suggested line in 1.1 will create STEP, DXF & PDF without file extension. And it will be applied for .ipt, .iam, .dwf and .idw files.

    It’s why you see in yellow below the value added in the option (not mentioned into the Autodesk help)
    value=”\.(idw|dwg|ipt|iam)$/&lt;_name_&gt;”/>

    Example of the result:

    All files generated by the job processor (PDF, DXF & STEP) are Design Representation and you can easily assign specific categories to them.

    All these files have a specific property because they are created by the Job Processor. The property is “Classification” and type is “Design Representation”. So if you add this into your rules and the file extension, you will be able to automate other category for STEP, DXF or PDF not generated with the job processor.

    Enjoy the new tool and see more info into the Vault 2024 help!

    Hugo Trepanier