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Case study of implementing an on-site reporting-form digitization system | ‘i-Reporter’, a paperless app that improves operational efficiency at manufacturing sites
10/11/2023
Samurai Asia Editorial Department
Tomas Tech proposes "cost reduction" and "operational efficiency improvement" through the introduction of IT systems for manufacturing and BtoB industries in Thailand. In this article, we will introduce an example of how the company's on-site reporting-form digitization system "i-Reporter" is utilized in Thailand. We will present a case study of problem solving at Thai auto parts manufacturer NTPT Company Limited (hereinafter, NTPT), along with feedbacks from the company..
What is “i-Reporter”, the most cost-effective paperless app?
“i-Reporter" is an application system that digitizes familiar on-site forms, such as paper and Excel forms, to tablet terminals without changing them, and enables digitization and paperless operation while retaining the benefits of handwritten paper forms. The system was developed by CIMTOPS Corporation, a Japanese company that develops and sells production management and other systems. This system has a track record of having the No. 1 market share* in paperless on-site form applications in Japan.
*Published by Fuji Chimera Research Institute on August 8, 2023
Sustainability Realized by SX/GX in 2023 / Current Status and Future Prospects of ESG Support Market
IIA-A-10 Paperless Solutions for On-site Form Market share: 48.4%
It is a groundbreaking service that digitizes paper-based operations that have been the norm in the past, and enables the completion of on-site recording and reporting.
Streamline various operations by making on-site records paperless
＜NTPT was looking for clues to solve the following on-site issues＞
・Human errors caused by recording manufacturing quantity and problem events on paper
・Excessive workflow steps due to re-entering paper-based records into Excel
⇒In order to overcome these issues, the company looked into the benefits of “i-Reporter”
1) Streamline the preparation of daily reports and other reporting at the sites
2) Streamline inventory management and warehouse operations
3) Realize DX (Digital Transformation) in maintenance and service operations
4) Streamline on-site construction management
In addition, the system can be used in an offline environment, import familiar forms into EXCEL, and check errors in data entry, making system implementation more convenient and promoting efficiency through digitalization.
The greatest advantage is that it is easy to implement with less confusion at on-site.
We asked NTPT staff about the reasons for implementing "i-Reporter" and their impressions.
"I had used i-Reporter at the factory I previously worked at, and I knew how easy it was to use, so I decided to install it. The EXCEL forms that have been used can be converted to electronic forms on the iPad, allowing for easy adoption at the site without significant disruption. The system has reduced the amount of time spent transcribing, processing, and checking data, which has contributed to a reduction in employee work hours," says Mr. Usui of NTPT.
＜Reasons for choosing Tomas Tech as its IT vendor＞
・To have the Thai staff to take the initiative in the implementation
・In addition to i-Reporter, further implementation of other systems such as production management and inventory management to be considered
⇒Tomas Tech, which has a wide range of solution proposals and careful consulting support, was determined to be the best choice
▲ Input data into a tablet with the same EXCEL forms used in the past.
“The time loss and human error caused by paper recording work has been reduced, making recording work more convenient and easy. Access to the input system by reading barcodes and the ability to directly photograph defects in the work process with a tablet for immediate data input are very convenient. Also, the ability to access data for work verification in a short period of time has improved our efficiency," says Mr. Chanapai of NTPT.
▲ Immediate access to data improves work efficiency
▲ Barcode reading for easy access
A wide range of uses for electronic forms at factories and manufacturing sites
“i-Reporter" can be used in a wide variety of ways at manufacturing sites.
✔ Reduction of work time and human errors due to handwriting
By digitizing all forms that are currently on paper, it is possible to reduce the amount of time spent on filling out and transcribing forms. This contributes to the elimination of omissions and errors caused by handwriting.
✔ Possible to create original electronic forms that you are familiar with
The biggest feature of “i-Reporter'' is that users can create and modify their own forms. This enables to digitize not only the manufacturing site but also all forms used.
"By digitizing daily work reports and quality records, we are able to analyze stop-loss more easily and improve productivity. We plan to further promote the use of IT in our company in the future. We hope that Tomas Tech will continue to work with us to solve new challenges.'' (Mr. Usui of NTPT)
“i-Reporter" is the best cost-effective digital tool for manufacturing sites.
Why not consider using it as the first step toward DX?
▲ From left: Mr. Yokoyama and Ms. Tohdoh of CIMTOPS Corporation; Mr. Chanapai and Mr. Usui of NTPT; Mr. Nozaki, Ms. Soraya, and Mr. Arunwit of Tomas Tech
【Interview cooperation】
NTPT Company Limited
The company is a parts machining company that mainly engages in turning of hub bearings, forging and turning of constant velocity joint outer rings, and turning of shafts in Thailand as its production base in Southeast Asia. This contributes to an integrated local production system.
