How to minimize quoting time and increase accuracy in an EMS environment?
Given the small profit margins in electronics assembly, accurate quoting is critical for electronic manufacturing services (EMS) companies. However, since design companies generally send out several requests for quote (RFQ) for each project, manufacturers end up providing quotes for many more projects than make it into production. In addition, customers’ bill-of-materials (BOM) file types, formats and content differ, often leading to inaccurate quotes and problems during production runs. Due to the sheer volume, the ability to create accurate quotes quickly, without tying up process engineers, is vital.
The new Valor™ BOM Connector software was created to addresses this challenge and reduce the time needed to create accurate quotations for printed circuit board (PCB) assemblies. BOM Connector imports and creates templates for BOM files to output a golden BOM that then connects directly to the manufacturer’s ERP system. When integrated with Valor Process Preparation, it can even ensure consistency with the CAD file that can be used to ensure that all parts are appropriate for the board.
Real-time component pricing and availability
BOM Connector also includes online connectivity to component suppliers, making it simple for manufacturers to check pricing and availability in real time. They can see which parts match existing inventory in the ERP system, and which need to be sourced from component suppliers. The system can even connect with credentialed suppliers to conduct automated online searches and queries based on part descriptions and ensure that preferential pricing and deliveries are available. Minimum order discount levels are also available through these interfaces.
BOM Connector has already been proven with several Valor customers using popular ERP systems. It is available through Siemens channels as part of the Process Engineering product family.
Watch the EDACafe Bunker Broadcast with Oren Manor, in which he explains all about BOM Connector>>
