Discrete Work Tools
A custom coded solution based on ERP functionality, designed with our philosophy of sophistication through simplicity, built to streamline workflows, enhance data accuracy, and improve overall operational efficiency. Built with the user experience in mind.
Purpose
There is tremendous functionality in business software systems. Most try to make a version with every known requirement a client could request. Then trim it down when a prospective client shows interest.
To serve and support all the potential, it requires a massive framework. routes, functions, so much extra code that will not be used, and not needed for most businesses. They offer a list of modules and functions — each representing a slice of the business. The client only needs to point them out.
I see constraint in that approach — a boundary imposed before the work even begins. Providing a set defines a boundary. It is your system, it should do what you need it to, what you want it to. Technological advancement, modernization, does not have to be restrictive. We don't take shortcuts. Lets make it freeing.
Objective
The objective is to build a tool to provide infrastructure for business processes, and adhere to lean principles itself. No waste. No overengineering. Simple in its production version. Reliable. More than adequate to create and maintain a customer database. Create Sales Orders, help manage and plan production. Connect the departments with an intuitive, minimal learning curve to promote adoption. Address the same issues seen today — interfaces and complexity that outpace the software’s actual capability.
Sample
This sample is not fully functional — it is scaffolded. The foundation is laid — the SD module modeled, the first mechanism created. The rest of the modules are outlined, with data models defined. The intention is to provide a clear example of how the philosophy is applied to a real world application. You can use the SD module, create customers, products, price them. Put them on a sales order and generate an invoice (view only). The rest will follow. The data is being stored on MongoDB Atlas, but it can be anywhere you want.
DD-WorkTools, a Proof of Concept
First, in the broadcast industry, then in manufacturing, for over 30 years I have been the interface between leadership and infrastructure. Designing the infrastructure for audio/video post production, I learned what could be relied upon.
In manufacturing, I have seen the pitfalls of overengineered solutions, the constraints of templates, and the benefits of lean, purpose-built systems. Resources that could have supported better employee lives and healthcare were spent on making a master template fit the use cases of a company it wasn't designed for. This philosophy has evolved from the very beginning, and has continued for over 30 years. Its application will be a small push back into alignment. This software shows, will show, how the metrics sought, efficient execution, adaptable data model, function rich environment, intuitive interface, can be achieved by maintaining, and being faithful to; simplicity, clarity, and purpose.
-Kevin W.