Precision and personalization are paramount for custom manufacturers. From engineer-to-order machinery to custom entry doors, meeting client specifications is both an art and a science. Amidst the complexity lies a critical challenge: maintaining control and consistency across diverse product configurations.
Translate and access detailed product development specifications and validation logic of your product lines confidently with Frontier ERP. Our core Product Configuration Management (PCM) tools take the hassle out of managing and maintaining your product configurations. Data is stored in Frontier ERP’s centralized PCM knowledge base, so it is quickly and easily accessible in real-time for sales orders, production processes, online data transfers, remote dealer systems, and more.
Learn about the advantages of our parametric product configuration engine.
Product Configuration Management Knowledge Base
Our PCM knowledge base incorporates multiple independently maintained rule types, data tables, and algorithms associated with each product line. This feature lets PCM logic be shared automatically between different product lines. PCM’s knowledge base can be accessed through Frontier ERP, integrated spreadsheets, or our client/server tool – PCM Workbench.
Tools for Easy Product Configuration Processes
Frontier’s PCM includes an array of tools and features to create and manage rules and configurations for each product line efficiently.
PCM Workbench
PCM Workbench provides access to all parts of a knowledge base from one place by connecting clients and servers. A built-in component of PCM, Workbench users can consolidate and simplify maintenance of new and existing product lines, pricing, and manufacturing data within this single maintenance facility.
In addition, PCM Workbench includes a powerful inquiry tool. Users can fix errors by searching the knowledge base and analyzing data configurations. Easily access specific model information with drill-down options to find the details you need. “Where-used” functionality allows you to view the information by formula, component resource, segment, options list, and more. This makes it easy to implement changes with full visibility of the impact it will have on all other products.
Key benefits:
- Eliminate Multiple Steps for PCM Model Modification
- Implement and create new PCM models with ease with Workbench assistance.
- Real-time Change Visibility
- Rather than sorting through multiple screens, users gain immediate visibility to configuration changes with PCM Workbench’s rich client platform.
- Enhanced Execution of Validation and Logic
- With the PCM Workbench Test Facility, you can validate all PCM logic without generating sales and associated work orders. The simulation includes processing orders, applying pricing, and scheduling production as if they were authentic.
The PCM Workbench Test Facility encompasses real-time:
- Option List Entry
- Conditional Options
- Master Condition Processing
- Edit & Advice Processing
- Pricing
- BOMs & Routings
Product Data Management
Frontier’s robust Product Data Management (PDM) module manages the entire lifecycle of a product’s data. With PDM, users can define and maintain comprehensive product and production data crucial for powering Frontier ERP. Complementing PDM, Product Configuration Management, and Engineering Change Management collaboratively support the engineering needs of companies producing stock, semi-, and custom-configured products.
Parametric Product Configurator
Frontier’s Parametric Product Configurator presents a multitude of advantages compared to simpler rules-based models. Enhanced configuration allows for more advanced customization and complex products often required by custom manufacturers. Our configurator is the heart of our Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ) software built into Frontier ERP. The powerful combination of sales order management and product configuration results in reduced errors, faster quoting, and shorter lead times, even for configure-to-order products.
CADFlow
Frontier CADFlow automates the composition of complex 3D models, drawings, and manufacturing data tailored to each order configuration. It works directly with Frontier’s product configurator to improve accuracy and eliminate data duplications. All customer orders are generated utilizing both your current CAD models and the configuration rules you establish within our ERP CPQ. CADFlow also integrates seamlessly with AutoDesk Inventor.
eWeb Services
Use eWeb Services to combine Frontier ERP data with your website, app, or customer portal. This enables real-time, two-way access to customer, product, and configuration data. Extend Frontier’s robust quoting and configuration capabilities to your applications, whether developed internally or in concert with external web designers or app developers. By providing frictionless access to your centralized database, eWeb Services empowers developers to customize systems to meet branding, marketing, and customer service needs effectively.
Learn More
Frontier ERP’s advanced Product Configuration Management capabilities removes configuration challenges for stock, semi- and custom manufacturers, ensuring precision, personalization, and efficiency throughout the product lifecycle. To learn more or schedule a demo, contact us today.
