Ecrimesa Group has taken an important step towards modernising its quality and management processes. Faced with the need for a more efficient system, we have implemented new software that significantly improves management in key sectors such as automotive and aerospace. In this article we examine the details of this transition and how it is impacting our day-to-day operations. 

Why change? 

In the context of quality control of the parts we manufacture with MIM and Investment Casating at Ecrimesa, we faced a considerable challenge with our previous system, based on databases and Excel. This approach, although functional for years, began to show significant limitations. We found ourselves with overwhelming information to manage, which slowed down our databases to the point of making them difficult to open and use efficiently. In addition, it was a single, non-integrated system, making it difficult to see the big picture and to quickly access crucial information for decision making. 

This problem led us to look for new software that not only met our current needs, but also offered the flexibility and capacity to adapt to future challenges. We were looking for a solution that would allow integrated and efficient management, capable of handling large volumes of data and improving traceability and control in all our quality processes, especially in critical sectors such as automotive and aerospace. 

Selection and implementation of the New Software 

Faced with the need to update our quality management system, at Ecrimesa Group we started a process to select the right software. After evaluating various options on the market, we opted for Soft Expert, a highly quality-oriented software for the automotive industry, which was well suited to our specific needs.  

The collaboration with our IT team was essential in this process. Together, we analysed the different alternatives we had found and saw that Soft Expert, due to its approach and functionalities, was the one that best aligned with our company’s requirements and expectations. This software not only focused on automotive quality, but also offered comprehensive quality management, a crucial aspect for us. 

Once Soft Expert was selected, we started the adaptation and customisation process. We started working with the programme about a year and a half ago, during which time we held meetings to take requirements from our processes and adapt the software to specific needs. During these sessions, we were able to customise and adjust the modules and features of the software to perfectly fit our working methods and internal processes.  

The implementation of Soft Expert has been a key step in our evolution towards more efficient and effective management, allowing us to integrate various processes and control them more effectively. This new system has greatly facilitated our quality management, providing us with tools adapted to our production environment. 

Observed Benefits and Improvements    

The implementation of Soft Expert at Ecrimesa Group has brought a number of advantages that have marked a significant improvement compared to our previous system. One of the most notable improvements is the fast and efficient access to records, a fundamental feature in our field of work. The search capability of the software is extraordinarily powerful, allowing us to locate specific information with a speed and accuracy that was previously not possible.  

Compared to the database and Excel-based system, Soft Expert offers a much more cohesive integration of information. Previously, we were running different systems for different tasks, which complicated management and overall visibility. Now, with everything centralised in a single system, we can quickly access the controls performed, workflows, control plans, risk analysis and more. This centralisation has greatly simplified our processes and improved the traceability and quality control of our parts. 

The impact on efficiency and quality management has been significant. The new software allows us not only to keep a detailed and accessible record of all inspections and production controls, but also facilitates the monitoring and tracking of all pending and completed tasks. In addition, the system alerts us to important changes, such as updates to drawings or processes, which is essential to maintain quality and compliance with current standards. 

Key Software Features 

The Soft Expert software has introduced a series of key features in Ecrimesa Group that have transformed the way we work. Among the most relevant are quality control, task management, and improved records and traceability.  

In terms of quality control, Soft Expert provides us with detailed tools for the supervision and management of this critical aspect. For example, through this programme, we can link each type of part with the specific controls to be performed, including workflows and control plans. This function is particularly useful in sectors such as automotive and aerospace, where quality standards are extremely high. 

Task management has been simplified and made more efficient. Each employee has access to their assigned tasks via their user, ensuring traceability and accountability in the who and when of the checks performed. This facilitates the planning and monitoring of activities, allowing an overview of pending and completed tasks.  

In terms of records and traceability, the software offers a powerful and fast search capability. We can easily access past controls, which is essential to assess quality over time and to respond quickly in case of problems or deviations. In addition, the system alerts us to any changes in documents or plans, ensuring that we are always working with the most up-to-date information. 

Forward-looking and Adaptability

The implementation of Soft Expert at Ecrimesa Group has not only met our current needs, but has also prepared us for future changes and challenges. The programme is designed with a flexibility that allows us to adapt to new trends and market requirements, especially important in dynamic sectors for which we manufacture metal parts.  

One of the great advantages of Soft Expert is its ability to be continuously updated and developed. For example, the software already includes new versions of risk analysis tools such as FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis), ensuring that we are always up to date with the latest methodologies and quality standards. This upgradability ensures that, with any changes in regulations or market demands, the software will adapt to meet these new requirements.  

Looking to the future, we see great potential in the scalability of the software. With each update and new development, we can expect deeper integration of our operations, further automation of tasks and continuous improvement in quality management. The ability to integrate new functionality and modules as needed allows us to be ready to adapt to changing production and quality environments. 

In brief 

The incorporation of Soft Expert in Ecrimesa Group has marked a significant turning point in the way we manage quality and processes. This change has not only been a technological update, but a real transformation in our internal operations and in our relationship with quality standards.  

The impact of the new software is felt on multiple levels: from improved efficiency in task management, to accuracy in quality control, to easier access and traceability of information. We have achieved a more cohesive integration of our operations, allowing us to respond more quickly and effectively to market demands and changes.  

With Soft Expert, we have strengthened our current position and laid the foundations for a future of continuous growth and adaptation. This programme offers us the possibility of keeping up to date with the latest trends and regulations, ensuring that Ecrimesa Group continues to be a benchmark in quality and efficiency in the manufacture of metal parts.  

In short, the decision to adopt Soft Expert reflects our constant commitment to continuous improvement and excellence. We are convinced that this tool will play a key role in our future evolution, helping us to reach new levels of quality and efficiency in all our processes.