Situation
Volvo has been working closely with Deutz AG, a German engine manufacturer, in the design and manufacture of diesel engines since 2000. The cooperation requires that information about engines supplied by Deutz is aligned with Volvo’s design, order and spare part processes as if the engines were produced by Volvo themselves.
Problem
Volvo and Deutz have different ways of structuring their product information. They use different processes, different PLM systems and even different ways of numbering parts. Volvo Penta experienced problems getting correct spare part information to meet customer demands, and inefficient spare part replacements due to lack of coordination with Deutz’s part numbers. Deutz experienced low order quality from Volvo and spent much time answering questions from different Volvo departments.
Solution
To support this partnership, a common area based on Eurostep’s ShareAspace PLM Collaboration platform was designed and implemented to share information in a secure way. Both parties can release updated product information: Deutz can publish changes in a structured manner, including parts and part properties from design, sales and aftermarket, part structures, drawings, documentation and engineering change orders; Volvo can distribute these updates to relevant systems within the Volvo Group.
Benefits
- Increased process and data quality – Up-to-date information is essential for improving efficiency in all processes.
- Reduced lead times – Information hand-over has been reduced from 1-2 weeks down to 1-2 days including a dramatic saving in spare part catalogue production.
- Improved collaboration – A consolidated product view enables improved visibility of design changes at an early stage, allowing the spare parts department to prepare for the resulting spare part modifications.
