3 Reasons to Implement an Engineering Workflow and Document Management System
3 Reasons to Implement an Engineering Workflow and Document Management System
Over the last decade or so, innovations in computer software have revolutionized the way businesses operate. It seems like things move more quickly than they used to, sometimes making it difficult for smaller firms to keep up with the well-funded behemoths. Workflows and associated documents move rapidly, demanding greater control and security and ultimately the need for an engineering workflow and document management system.
When it comes to selecting a document management system (especially as a smaller firm) it may be difficult to make choices based on the information given to you by most DMS providers, with each company telling you which features are “most important” to you. The truth is - only your company knows what you need, with the features often becoming clear as you begin to address your reoccurring pain points.
While every company is different, there are a few innovations in engineering workflow and document management that are generally useful for smaller firms.
In this article we will discuss the following 3 reasons why you should implement an EDMS as these are the core benefits of a truly versatile system.
Low-cost infrastructure
Innovations in Cloud computing have created a new standard for electronic workflow and document management systems. Electronic document management systems were traditionally on-premise systems using expensive hardware and software, along with the need for IT staff to manage and maintain the servers. Cloud systems, on the other hand, require very little of this.
There are still benefits to on-premise systems, however, as they help companies meet compliance requirements by providing an added layer of control over company documents. Still, most small businesses likely don’t have the wherewithal to support on-premise systems (and the corresponding compliance regulations), making Cloud systems powerful, cost-effective, and compliant alternatives.
If you’re looking to get the best of both worlds (the flexibility of a Cloud system and the security of an on-premise system), you can employ a hybrid solution – offered by some, but not all document management providers. With a hybrid solution, files and workflows are automatically moved from on-premise to the Cloud, and back again. They are perfect for receiving project files, transmittals, and submittals, from vendors, contractors, and customers.
Web-browser interface
Your document management system is only useful if you have access to your files and documents when you need them. Often enough, engineers need to manage projects on-site from either their laptop, smartphone, or tablet – without needing a mobile application.
HTML5-based systems are accessible on any mobile device, regardless of their operating system, using only the web browser (i.e., Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Android, etc.) on the device. Engineers, document controllers, and other members of your organization that need to access the system can log-on easily on any device they employ. Furthermore, HTML5 eliminates the need for Java, which means your team can access the system instantly, and without any unnecessary browser extensions and required software.
Scalable architecture
Growth is typically a priority for small businesses. After all, it's not easy being the “little guy”. With growth, comes the need for bigger and better systems with increased storage and more user profiles. Since Cloud document management systems don’t require you to maintain your own servers, expanding the system is easy with the provider simply adding resources (i.e., processors, processor speed, memory, storage, etc.).
Training and implementation of a new workflow and document management system takes time, especially when using a robust system to manage document distribution and company workflows. To save time and valuable resources, we provide easy video tutorials, on-site and online training, and full-time telephone support.
Additional EDMS Features
Our EDMS Solutions
ImageSite and Engine-Box (the Cloud version of ImageSite) are eQuorum’s robust workflow and document management solutions, created to help workers manage their essential workflows while maintaining complete control over their engineering files and documents. Not only do they provide a secure collaboration site for workers, but they also help organizations manage document distribution with third parties like vendors, contractors, and customers. Both systems are offered at a competitive price, enabling organizations to get a quick return on their investment by providing the features and functionality needed to help organizations improve efficiency, productivity, and collaboration. Companies can choose from concurrent user subscriptions or named user subscriptions, ensuring organizations have subscription options that make sense for their business.
ImageSite®
Our single source engineering workflow and document management system. Built in HTML5 so there is no software to deploy to client computers or mobile apps to download. Offered as an On-premise or Private Cloud system.
Our EDMS Solutions
ImageSite and Engine-Box (the Cloud version of ImageSite) are eQuorum’s robust workflow and document management solutions, created to help workers manage their essential workflows while maintaining complete control over their engineering files and documents. Not only do they provide a secure collaboration site for workers, but they also help organizations manage document distribution with third parties like vendors, contractors, and customers. Both systems are offered at a competitive price, enabling organizations to get a quick return on their investment by providing the features and functionality needed to help organizations improve efficiency, productivity, and collaboration. Companies can choose from concurrent user subscriptions or named user subscriptions, ensuring organizations have subscription options that make sense for their business.
Engine-Box™
Engine-Box is a cloud based workflow and document management version of ImageSite that resides outside the corporate network.
The eQuorum Customer Promise
In 2005, eQuorum developed the first all browser-based EDMS. The system, although for on-premise use, was still created to remove client software and JAVA from user computers and allow users to have a single viewer based on the simple navigation functionality of browsers. Today, eQuorum provides that same application in a private Cloud or a SaaS Cloud option. We can do this because we are, and have always been, browser-based, understanding the enhanced speed, security, and usability of this technology.
With the abundance of document management systems on the market today, there’s no doubt that choosing the right Cloud document management software can be a difficult decision. eQuorum is here to provide a comprehensive, powerful, and most importantly – affordable Cloud document management solution. We believe in providing real value to our customers by eliminating unnecessary costs, providing industry-leading functionality, and equipping your team with the right tools using cutting edge technology to bring your products to market faster.
Resources
eQuorum®
We specialize in engineering workflow and document management. Our comprehensive, yet easy-to-use software provides the solution to manage data from design to manufacturing and production, to sales, support and administration.