3 Ways Management Information Systems Improve Steel Fabrication

Just a few short years ago, the accepted method for steel fabrication management involved piles of drawings and other paperwork, chaotic communication and error-prone manual information input. Thankfully, structural steel fabricators now have a myriad of more efficient options at their fingertips. 

Management Information Systems (MIS) offer an effective way of storing and sharing project information, cooperating in real time and reducing costly mishaps. It’s easy to learn MIS and simple to use it—you’re not changing your way of working, you’re only making it more efficient at every stage of the project. 

With the right steel fabrication management system, you’re better able to take control of information, resulting in smoother processes and more profitable projects. So, how exactly does MIS create a better workflow? 

1. A Seamless Data Flow Saves Time

A working data flow is essential for fabrication, but it can be a challenge when information is divided between multiple stakeholders. When data sharing is manual, valuable time and effort are taken up by ensuring everyone is in the loop because each expert is busy focusing on their own field.

With MIS, each member of your project can see all aspects of a project come together, form a thorough understanding of the process and effectively map out pain points. Using software for tasks that used to be recorded manually also releases resources for the completion of the project itself.

2. Sharing Real-time Information Prevents Production Chain Errors

Traditionally, when changes occur in a fabrication project, they must be updated to each stage separately. MIS operates like a cloud service, so everything is saved digitally in a database that each project member has access to up-to-date project information at all times. 

With a real-time platform, there’s no risk of outdated information, missing data or blockage in the command chain. If changes don’t reach every stakeholder, it can result in additional expenses, or even a failed project. 

3. Adopting MIS is Fast and Easy

Moving from manual work to automated and optimized data management may seem like a huge step, but it really isn’t. Because MIS is designed with fabricators in mind, the user’s needs are number one. The software isn’t built just for management-level or technical personnel, every department benefits from this technology. 

MIS is quick to adopt because it’s been created to respond to the needs and pain points of fabricators themselves. You remain in charge, but your tools are more efficient, more reliable and more effortless to use than ever. 

BIM-based Management Information Solutions are the Future of Steel Fabrication

When “snail mail” used to be the only way to deliver written information, it was accepted because it was the only option. Correspondence has evolved from postal mail to faxes and email, and everyone has benefitted from the increased effectiveness, speed and convenience of these services. 

The change to MIS is similar, and the advent of building information modeling (BIM) is speeding up this change. With BIM-based solutions, you can communicate using 3D models and other images. In fact, the new systems function like an instant messaging service, where all your project stakeholders are on the same page all the time, even when teams work separately. 

In short, embracing new technology solutions is a fantastic opportunity for your business. Not only does it have tremendous potential to increase your productivity, but it enhances collaborations and maximizes earnings. So, what are you waiting for?