Seamless global integration of QMS into decentralized ERP infrastructure
Project overview
A global manufacturer of plastic products at over one hundred locations uses our QMS LIMS software to enable cross-location processing of inspection orders. Furthermore, the aim of the LIMS software is to create comparability between the plants through identical evaluations of the same materials or products.
The challenge
The QMS LIMS serves as a system for the laboratory for data acquisition and for quality management and development as a tool for evaluations. The central system is used for all locations of a business unit. The challenge here is to standardize the different processes and philosophies of the locations in one LIMS system. The connection of the decentralized ERP systems also poses a challenge. As part of the project, different IT systems and working methods had to be harmonized in one LIMS.
Solution
The QMS LIMS module is used in direct connection via our module for ERP integration with the decentralized ERP systems. Test planning is mainly carried out in the SAP QM module and the site-specific standards stored there are used. In some cases, several ERP systems communicate with a shared laboratory and its QMS LIMS database.
The QMS solution is used for complete order management, from receipt of the sample, sample preparation, pre-treatment and recording of measured values to the subsequent decision on use. Furthermore, the order planning is followed by an evaluation of the measured values collected in the form of test reports, forms and business intelligence reports.
The respective test devices and systems are addressed directly via the QMS LIMS using uni-respectively bidirectional interfaces and the results of the respective tests are read out using predefined rules. The customer uses various types of interfaces, from file import interfaces to web service interfaces.
It is crucial for the customer that all measuring devices are connected to the QMS LIMS in order to realize fully automatic data acquisition. By connecting the test equipment, the resources of the employees are spared, as they can focus entirely on the day-to-day business. It also optimizes the time required for order processing, as the effort involved in the inspection process is reduced. By connecting test equipment to QMS LIMS, the customer ensures that all tests are controlled by the laboratory and that tests can be compared at any time.
Its use is not limited to the basic function of a LIMS. At many sites, QMS is used to record data for incoming and outgoing goods inspections or for related analyses, such as mixture releases. In addition, QMS is used for the internal laboratory performance of test equipment capability analyses. Thanks to the high degree of configuration options, the data can be reused or reused for complete consistency within the customer’s application.
Result
The fully automated data acquisition leads to a more effective use of capacities in the laboratory. As a result, employees are able to focus on their day-to-day business. The fully integrated and digitalized process provides better transparency across the entire process, as all process steps are mapped via the LIMS. By concentrating on the day-to-day or core business, the throughput times for test orders have been reduced.
The digitalization of laboratory processes enables the customer to have a paperless laboratory. The central storage of all relevant data for a business unit enables global comparability of materials (finished products, raw materials, etc.).
A look into the future
The global roll-out is currently being implemented together with the Quality Domain project team. By reusing generic templates, resources are saved on the customer side and sibling sites can be connected within a few weeks.
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Ludmila Lebedev
Sales Team Germanedge