Manufacturing companies will find controlling their production operations both easier and more efficient with the recently launched Dimensions Manufacturing solution from award-winning developer, Access Accounting Ltd.

Dimensions Manufacturing, which is built using open-architecture and Microsoft SQL Server technology, will significantly extend the functionality of the flagship accounting and business package Dimensions, to accommodate the in-depth processes and tight deadlines required by manufacturing operations.

"The aim is to put businesses in full control through an integrated manufacturing and finance system. This means that information will only need to be entered the once, significantly reducing wasted time and effort re-keying data," said Pip Trowles, Dimensions Manufacturing Product Manager for Access Accounting. 

"Access to relevant and accurate real-time information enables companies to see at a glance whether parts are available and take immediate action if they are not. What's more with advanced business intelligence reporting the decision making process is made much easier," she continued.

Full visibility of the entire production process, from the original sales order to the finished goods warehouse, allows the status of all orders to be known at any point in time. The software makes it easy and flexible to create works orders when required - using either the Works Order Creation Wizard or creating them automatically at the time of entering a sales order - taking account of alternative items, Bill of Material variations and free Work in Progress.

Business procedures can be created so that only orders where all components are available are released to the factory floor, helping to maintain a low work-in-progress inventory and shortening manufacturing lead times.  The software also allows multiple routes around the factory to be defined to rebalance the workload across the factory floor and eliminate bottlenecks and hold-ups in production.

Dimensions Manufacturing provides the perfect solution for companies in which the manufacturing process is of low to medium complexity, but where volumes are significant and prioritisation is a key activity. This extends the functionality already available in the award-winning Dimensions accounting solution, which offers assembly functions together with integrated time sheets and project costing.

For companies who have processes with a high level of complexity, Supply Chain Manufacturing - developed by sister company Access Supply Chain - provides comprehensive industry-specific functionality including MRPII, ERP, Advanced Batch Traceability and complex stock control. With its scaleable modular structure, excellent functionality and extreme flexibility, Supply Chain Manufacturing combines all the advantages of a standard packaged offering with the fit of a bespoke solution. It has limitless potential for integration and can be deployed with complete confidence in every part of your organisation.