Abstract :
The use of a visual record computer as a general aid to the administration of a medium sized foundry is described. In addition to the more normal uses of a computer, such as payroll preparation and other accountancy functions, the whole administration has been designed from first principles to use the computer to the fullest extent. Every administrative function from receipt of an enquiry through works documentation to eventual dispatch and invoicing has been included in the system, and a full range of management information is also supplied. The latter includes the ability at any time to provide a complete statement of the current work load in total and in detail on every manufacturing centre, every order is shown in the week when delivery is due, and the resultant load in moulding time and core making time per week per manufacturing centre is also shown. The author makes the point that apart from very definite cost advantages in using a computer based administration, the speed and accuracy of reaction to inevitable business changes are advantages that are very real in today´s economic climate.
