PSL Datatrack production control software powers growth at precision engineering company

Springfort Precision Engineering has made the strategic decision to invest in PSL Datatrack production control software to streamline quoting, scheduling and inventory management – areas that were previously consuming significant amounts of time at the Portadown-based subcontract precision engineering company.

With AS9100 and ISO 9001 accreditations, Springfort is a trusted supplier in the aerospace sector while also taking on a variety of subcontract machining work. However, as the has grown since its incorporation in 2018, inefficiencies in administrative processes and stock management became increasingly difficult to manage.

“We were spending far too much time on quoting, administration and general paperwork,” explains Graeme McCoy, co-owner of Springfort. “Managing our expanding list of part numbers and keeping track of raw material stock was becoming a logistical nightmare. We knew we needed a better solution.”

Like many growing subcontractors, Springfort initially relied on Excel spreadsheets for quoting and Xero accounting software for financial management. While this set up worked in the early days, it quickly became clear that a more integrated production control system was required to improve efficiency, eliminate manual processes and, ultimately, inspire growth.

Springfort first discovered PSL Datatrack through a number of technical discussion and client testimonial videos available online. Impressed by its industry-specific features, the company reached out for a personalised demonstration.

“The sales process was great,” says McCoy. “The PSL Datatrack team were patient with us while we worked out our own requirements. There was no pressure, just a clear explanation of how the system could help us.”

After seeing how the software could resolve its quoting, scheduling and inventory-related pain points, Springfort took the decision to invest in PSL Datatrack. The system’s modular structure, which enables users to start with core modules and integrate optional modules as requirements evolve, meant that Springfort could tailor a package to suit its unique business needs at the outset.

Comprehensive training

Training was conducted at Springfort’s pace, with an agreed installation date followed by immediate hands-on training.

“The implementation and training process was very slick and professional, and always arranged at a time that suited us. We also have a maintenance and support contract with PSL, meaning we have access to the latest updates and can get help whenever we need it.”

He continues: “We simply wanted to stop wasting time on Excel and make things quicker and more streamlined, enabling us to grow the business. From the point of installation, PSL Datatrack delivered tangible benefits.”

By moving away from spreadsheets, Springfort gained complete control over its entire production process, which not only simplified audits and accreditations but also ensured that information was instantly accessible and reusable across different areas.

The next crucial benefit has been the improvement in Springfort’s quoting process.

“We’re now able to quote so much quicker and ensure that all costs are covered,” says McCoy. “We would never go back to our old, manual Excel-based method.”

With PSL Datatrack, the company now manages quotations systematically, ensuring accuracy and reducing the risk of under-pricing. Upon quote acceptance, the system raises a works order with automatic data retrieval, eliminating duplication and streamlining the entire administrative workflow.

“The Works Orders module has been a game-changer. It gives us a clear, organised overview of our orders, allowing us to forecast workload and resource needs while identifying potential bottlenecks before they become an issue.”

Another huge advantage has been the ability to issue invoices more promptly, directly supporting the company’s financial targets and improving overall profitability.

“With all necessary data stored in the system and reused wherever possible, we’re far more efficient. PSL Datatrack has transformed how we operate.”

Access to real-time business insights through PSL Datatrack’s management statistics screen has been a further revelation.

“This is effectively a dashboard displaying 57 key performance indicators [KPIs] in one place,” explains McCoy. “We can instantly see an overview of different areas of our business and drill down into the supporting data with a single click on any number.”

It has eliminated the need for manual reports and provided management with instant visibility into performance metrics, further enhancing decision-making.

Since implementing PSL Datatrack, Springfort has continued to expand, adding additional modules, custom reports and user licences to increase software accessibility for staff. The system’s flexibility has allowed the business to scale efficiently.

System expansion

“We’ve recently extended our system to include the sequential scheduler, gauge calibration, non-conformance and purchase invoicing modules. Each of these will add even more value to the business and help us stay ahead.”

Looking ahead, Springfort Precision Engineering remains committed to improving processes, consolidating data into one cohesive system, and driving productivity and profitability. PSL Datatrack has played a key role in this journey, ensuring that the company has the software tools required to grow with confidence.

Concludes McCoy: “With excellent customer support, PSL Datatrack ensures smooth operations and continuous improvement. We would highly recommend it for any production facility looking to boost productivity and performance.”