Case Study: Digital Transformation of Production & Order Management
Client: A leading manufacturing company
Industry: Manufacturing & Industrial
A team of skilled Keyhole Software developers is collaborating to modernize production and order management for a manufacturing client by replacing manual, spreadsheet-based workflows with tailored digital solutions. The ongoing initiative leverages a combination of Java, Spring Boot, Electron, React, and automation technologies to streamline operations and improve efficiency across production lines and order processing.
Challenge
The client relied on manual, spreadsheet-based workflows to manage production and order tracking, resulting in inefficiencies, errors, and process delays. The lack of real-time data visibility caused disruptions in production scheduling and order fulfillment, increasing operational complexity and reducing productivity. The client sought a digital transformation solution to modernize these outdated workflows and enhance business efficiency.
Solution
Keyhole Software partnered with the client to replace pen-and-paper and Excel-based workflows with a suite of custom digital applications. Leveraging React, Java, Spring Boot, and automation technologies, the team developed a scalable, modernized solution designed to improve real-time data access, reduce manual work, and enhance decision-making capabilities.
Key components of the solution included:
- Production Line Optimization: A React-powered desktop application built with Electron replaced the manual tracking system. This application allows production supervisors to view and manage workflow data in real-time, even without a constant network connection. Data extraction from Excel files was automated, transforming them into structured JSON formats to streamline reporting and reduce manual data entry.
- Order Management Enhancement: The development team built a React-based front-end integrated with a Java/Spring Boot backend to replace a fragmented spreadsheet process. The new system supports order tracking, production scheduling, and shipping logistics, improving operational visibility and efficiency.
- Automation for Business Efficiency: Using Apache POI in Java, the team automated spreadsheet-based workflows, significantly reducing manual data entry and saving hours of employee time while minimizing human errors.
Technology Stack
- Front-End: React, Next.js, Redux, Electron
- Back-End: Java, Spring Boot, RESTful APIs
- Automation: Apache POI for Excel automation
- Testing & Development: Cucumber, Spring Test, GitLab for version control
- Integration: JInterop for seamless Microsoft CRM integration
The development team employs a combination of modern tools and frameworks. Electron is used to develop an offline-capable desktop application for production line tracking, ensuring reliable functionality in environments with inconsistent network access. Java and Spring Boot serve as the backbone of the backend system, enabling efficient API development, data processing, and order management. React, Next.js, and Redux power the front-end, delivering an intuitive and responsive user experience.
To enhance business efficiency, Apache POI automates spreadsheet-based workflows, eliminating manual data entry and significantly reducing processing time. Cucumber and Spring Test introduce behavior-driven development and robust testing practices, ensuring application reliability. Additionally, JInterop facilitates seamless integration with Microsoft-based CRM systems. The team utilizes GitLab for version control and Slack for real-time collaboration, ensuring smooth development workflows and efficient communication across all project components.
Development Process
The project followed an iterative development approach, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations. The team collaborated closely with business stakeholders to gather requirements, refine workflows, and validate usability. Using Agile methodologies, regular client reviews and internal developer meetings ensured continuous progress and adaptability.
Results & Business Impact
Even though the project is ongoing, the implemented solutions have already resulted in significant operational improvements:
- Time Savings: Automation has eliminated repetitive manual tasks, saving employees valuable time.
- Improved Data Accuracy: Real-time digital tracking reduces human errors and enhances reporting.
- Enhanced Workflow Visibility: A unified system for production and order management has streamlined processes, reduced delays, and improved efficiency.
- Scalability: The new system’s flexible architecture supports future enhancements without disrupting existing workflows.
By leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic automation, Keyhole Software has enabled the client to transition from legacy workflows to an efficient, scalable digital system. This transformation lays the groundwork for greater accuracy, productivity, and long-term business success.
