After years of running an efficient but entirely self-built quoting and administration system, Parallel Precision Limited has invested in PSL Datatrack to eliminate duplication, streamline order processing and build a more scalable foundation for future growth.
Before introducing PSL Datatrack’s modular production control software, Director Elliott Staton had created a very capable internal system for quoting and job costing. “I had developed a spreadsheet and word document system which was great. It was flexible, accurate and enabled me to quote customers quickly,” he says. Parallel also utilised a manual whiteboard for job visibility.
However, as order complexity and volume increased, the manual nature of the process began to create inefficiencies. “The biggest challenge was the duplication of data entry. The details of the part would go from the spreadsheet, to the word document, then into the quote letter. If an order came in, that same information – now with a purchase order number – had to be manually copied into a works order, order acknowledgement and delivery note,” explains Elliott.
“It became a total admin nightmare, especially with complex bills of materials (BOMs) or multiple orders in a day. The opportunity for mistakes was huge, and having to double-check everything meant tying up a skilled programmer with admin duties or not always ordering material on time, putting pressure on the machining schedule. It was taking up a lot of time doing non-value-added work and became too much for one person to manage.”
Based in Lydney, Gloucestershire, Parallel is an ISO 9001 accredited subcontract CNC machining business specialising in high-quality aluminium components for customers across the UK. Its machining capability includes a 3-axis Hurco VM10i, a full simultaneous 5-axis Hurco VMX30U and a twin-spindle CMZ TL20 MS with bar feed.
With a team of four, the company produces low to medium-volume batches ranging from one-off components through to runs of around 200 pieces, supplying sectors where visual quality and finish are critical.
“We specialise in CNC machined aluminium components with a high visual aesthetic for companies that manufacture luxury products,” Elliott comments. “Our customers choose us because of our prompt communication, commitment to delivering on time and consistent high quality finishes.
Elliott first came across PSL Datatrack through customer testimonial videos and was also aware of other companies already using the system. He was impressed with the demonstration provided by the Bracknell-based business and the decision to invest was ultimately driven by Parallel’s need to commit to a structured solution.
A key objective for Elliott was to reduce reliance on manual knowledge and bring core business information into one place. “I wanted to reduce the information in my head and get it into a system, so eventually other employees can see what jobs we have on, what stage they are at and what processes they require,” continues Elliott.
Parallel also had a unique requirement when it came to installing PSL Datatrack, as Elliott describes: “We are actually running our licence via Parallels on a Mac, the first of its kind. PSL Datatrack’s support team really came through to ensure that the software functioned correctly for us.”
Since going live with PSL Datatrack, Parallel has seen the most significant benefits in post-order processing. “Documents like order acknowledgements, proforma invoices, works orders and delivery notes were the biggest time savings made, because they naturally populate with the right information from the system,” Elliott remarks. “This was very important – I needed to reduce the burden of mindlessly duplicating information from document to document.”
The overall result is faster progression of jobs from order receipt through to the workshop. Elliott also highlights small but meaningful operational improvements, including automated labelling: “Being able to label packaged parts with a DYMO label is a small but notable improvement for some of our customers. I would describe that as the icing on the cake.”
Among the system’s many features, the Works Order Generator stands out for Elliott as one that has delivered tangible efficiency gains. “This has been our number one tool for generating a return on the software. When a customer purchase order contains five or more lines, that time saving really becomes noticeable!” says Elliott.
Reporting tools have also provided valuable, live business insight. “PSL Datatrack’s Report Generators are great for providing real-time live data and business overview, such as on-time deliveries and order value per month. It takes just a couple of clicks and we can see anything we need to,” Elliott explains.
Looking ahead, Elliott is clear that PSL Datatrack is a critical enabler for future growth: “The next three years that we are forecasting would not be achievable without this ERP/MRP system. It’s enabled us to systemise the company and reduce reliance on the knowledge of a key individual – myself!” Elliott is a keen contributor to PSL Datatrack’s Wishlist system and is currently considering an additional user licence for the software.
“We are firmly focussed on growing the business over the next 3–5 years and investment in people, machinery and systems like PSL Datatrack is key to our mission. We want to automate as many processes as possible and digitalisation of admin tasks remains a priority,” comments Elliott.
For Parallel Precision Limited, PSL Datatrack therefore represents a practical step forward that has already removed significant administrative burden. “We are excited to move forward with PSL Datatrack production control software and gain even more efficiencies from it. Support from the team has been tremendous and we’re looking forward to what comes next,” Elliott concludes.
For more information, visit www.psldatatrack.com or contact PSL Datatrack, Lily Hill House, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 2SJ, Tel: +44 (0) 1344 827312, Email: sales@psldatatrack.com
