The role of ERP traceability in aerospace

The UK aerospace industry is a significant part of the nation's economy. It is the second-largest in the world by turnover and holds a global market share of about 17%.

Maintaining this position requires a combination of world-class products and strict adherence to numerous regulations and certifications that apply to the entire manufacturing process.

The uncertainty brought on by events like Brexit created a potential regulatory dilemma. Many in the industry were left wondering whether the sector could remain aligned with European aviation regulations. This highlights why solutions like scheduling, visual advanced planning and scheduling (APS), and especially traceability, are crucial for managing compliance.

Why traceability is critical for compliance

Traceability is particularly complex because problems can arise at any stage of the supply chain, from R&D and materials handling to assembly and shipping. A slow or broken process can be very costly and, in a worst-case scenario, even fatal. Being able to schedule quickly and accurately reduces downtime, helping manufacturers maximise order fulfilment and resource utilisation. It also enables real-time data collection from the factory floor, allowing for tracking of employees, equipment, and orders. This helps reduce losses and drives continuous improvement.

How an ERP provides total visibility

A modern ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is capable of monitoring how your supply chain and production line are tracking against required regulations. When you're selecting an ERP provider that offers full visibility, keep these key points in mind:

1. Supplier Compliance: Your ERP solution should improve visibility, compliance, and quality control during supplier selection. This includes the ability to apply pre-determined sourcing policies to ensure you only work with recommended and pre-approved suppliers.

2. Proactive Preparedness: Regularly performing mock recalls allows you to test and continuously improve your traceability system. This significantly reduces the time it takes to complete a recall in the event of an actual product issue.

3. Regulatory Adherence: An effective ERP can ensure that all products and their packaging are traceable back to their original components. By providing quick and easy access to all key product information, from purchase to delivery, you can swiftly trace and quarantine any stock that is defective, damaged, or of inferior quality.

Even as the aerospace sector balances the need for improved operational efficiency with the pace of a constantly evolving industry, having a tight control over the end-to-end manufacturing process is vital for ensuring your business remains viable for years to come.