Working more efficiently thanks to innovative ERP software

Metal processing companies, just like other manufacturing companies in other sectors, face major challenges to meet the strict requirements of customers and to stay one step ahead of the competition. A flexible production process is crucial, and this is where automation and digitalization come in. ECI Software Solutions distributes and implements ERP software, CAD/CAM software, Business Intelligence solutions and mobile applications specifically for SMEs, also in the metal sector. For example, Ridder iQ optimizes business processes from A to Z, ensuring shorter lead times, high utilization rates and higher profit margins, i.e. improved efficiency.

Knight iQ

Ridder iQ is a software solution that allows manufacturing companies to easily design, construct and visualize their products, as well as create working documents and bills of materials, and if necessary, control CNC machines directly. In this way, processes are optimized from start to finish, including the control of machines. This ERP package includes seven basic functionalities: a complete CRM system with integration to Exchange and Outlook, calculation and bills of materials, work preparation, purchase, sales and inventory administration, time and personnel tracking, document management, and a reporting system for the necessary analyses of the processes. As a user, you thus get real-time information on resources, material requirements, capacity and planning, and can very easily visualize all the information on clear dashboards. 

In addition, eleven more optional modules can be added, including solutions for production planning, project management and scheduling, location management, service & maintenance... These also include programs such as Knowledge Sync, to automatically monitor every aspect in your process and stay informed in real time via alerts on mail or smartphone, or Tracebility, to be able to track each product at all times and thus detect production errors faster and prevent faulty deliveries. PDA logistics further optimizes inventory management. 

CAD/CAM integration, Gatewise and Qlik Sense

Choosing an ERP package is always a first step, but to further automate processes, companies must also invest in software programs for design, production and CNC machine control. For example, ECI Software Solutions supplies the CAD/CAM software from TopSolid, imos and Alphacam, but integration is also possible with solutions from other software developers. There is more, however, because the ERP package can also be linked to Shop Floor Control, a PDM/PLM software, the Gatewise platform and Qlik Sense. 

With Gatewise, a company works with all partners connected to the platform through a single connection. Information is exchanged between these companies (customers and suppliers) about, for example, purchase and sales orders, order confirmations, delivery times and invoicing. The software developers at ECI Software Solutions ensure that manufacturing companies that are using an ERP system are connected to the platform. Qlik Sense provides additional functionality on top of the Business Intelligence tools, allowing companies to create powerful analyses based on the most up-to-date information at all times. This solution serves to query, analyze, view reports, and navigate processes through dashboards.

Easy to implement

ECI Software Solutions has a team of specialists who know their markets inside out. For example, they also have extensive experience in the metal industry, for small and large companies and from very simple to the most complex manufacturing processes. Even the methodology to implement the software is broken down by industry and complexity of company and processes. There is a specially designed document with an analysis of the business processes in a blueprint, so that the customer knows how his company will be automated with Ridder iQ. A project team ensures efficient implementation with as little disruption to the processes as possible. They also act as a point of contact throughout the process and support the project from the beginning until delivery. Afterwards, clients can also always contact ECI Software Solutions with all their questions regarding process and software.