In January 2012 Siemens implemented Orchestrate production planning software, linked to a giant touch-screen planning board that displays the current schedule in real time. Planned times are automatically replaced by actual times, critical tasks highlighted and automated alerts identify potentially missed operations.
Orchestrate production planning software sits comfortably beside the company’s SAP system, which provides input in the form of MRP requirements. It has not been necessary to integrate the systems.
Since implementation the time taken in scheduling has been cut by 66%, representing a saving of £20,000 a year. More importantly, it has relieved key staff from a demanding but mechanical task, allowing them to devote more time to other key operations.
