The two companies are using different systems and approaches for their information management. A solution is needed that can simultaneously:

• Manage the shared information
• Keep track of changes
• Create a single point of contact

Solution 
The applied solution includes the creation of a common area where all shared information is managed:
The supplier is responsible for the correctness of information made available in the common area; this information is consolidated from various sources at the supplier.
The OEM is responsible for extracting the required information from the common area when and where it is needed.

Implementation

1. The information to be shared was identified in the supplier's various systems.
2. A Share-A-space® server was set-up and configured to manage the shared information.
3. Necessary integrations were performed and the information was loaded into and consolidated by Share-A-space®.

Benefits
• Single source of information for shared data, accessed by one interface.
• Clear lines of responsibility.
• Change control that ensures correct information at all stages.
• Access to information about supplier part-numbers.

Savings
• Reduction in the time taken to produce spare-part catalogues by more than 40%.
• Errors in configuration information reduced by more than 90%.

Next step
Current plans include support for managing produced products identified by serial-number.

 Supplier integration