An interactive spare parts catalog is the digital update to binders and manuals that weigh kilos. Instead of being printed on paper, the catalog is generated digitally and is then available via data carriers such as CD, DVD, USB stick or via intranet and Internet.
The interactive spare parts catalog basically contains the same information as a paper or PDF catalog - with the difference that the data is always up-to-date and linked bidirectionally with parts lists and other information.
All data relevant for identifying and ordering spare parts is therefore available in linked form. This applies, for example, to pictorial representations such as exploded views, photos, 2D drawings or 3D models.
When it comes to handling their spare parts, many companies today face major challenges. These include:
Many of these challenges have the same root cause: there is a lack of a central pool for service-relevant data that can be controlled by a single tool. Instead, companies use different tools and programs for all steps in after-sales service. As a result, much of the data is outdated or difficult to find.
An interactive spare parts catalog is relevant for all manufacturers who face the above challenges and want to digitize their after-sales service. It enables them to support their customers, service technicians, support staff and trading partners with an intelligent, digital platform. This provides all the information that office and field service employees need for their work. On the other hand, operators benefit from the advantages of digital spare parts catalogs during maintenance.
In terms of service for manufacturers of machines, plants, equipment, vehicles and components, spare parts are one of the biggest revenue drivers of all.
An interactive spare parts catalog is the basis for these companies to support customers and employees with modern and efficient service solutions.
Today, operators of machines, plants and vehicle fleets are often under cost pressure and are struggling with mega issues such as digitalization and a shortage of skilled workers. In day-to-day business, their top priority is uninterrupted operation and effortless maintenance of their machinery and equipment.
A digital spare parts catalog helps these companies to quickly identify and order spare parts to reduce failures and downtime to a minimum.
For companies in the plant engineering and mechanical engineering sectors, the spare parts business is an integral part of their corporate strategy. That's why representatives of these industries rank digital spare parts catalogs and web stores among the top 5 of their planned IT investments.
An intelligent digital service information system with web store connection enables precisely these companies to successfully implement their strategy. This means that all important data is available at all times and bundled in one system. This speeds up the processing of spare parts orders and brings numerous benefits - for manufacturers and for operators:
In an interactive spare parts catalog, all visual elements and information are linked in the background via hotspots with information in parts lists. The data transfer is bidirectional.
If a service technician or support staff member clicks on parts of a drawing, he immediately sees the associated parts list information. This works in the same way in the opposite direction: If the catalog user is in the parts list and clicks on an item, the associated part is immediately highlighted in the drawing.
An interactive spare parts catalog provides "smart information" - data that makes processes such as maintenance or the identification of assemblies and spare parts intelligent and efficient. Linking information and smart structuring makes it easy to navigate through the spare parts catalog.
Different search functions or navigation by click bring the user quickly and without detours to the target. Navigation in the catalog is either via a structure tree or by clicking on the graphical representations. Entering data or filter functions also simplify the search.
If the spare parts catalog is also equipped with an ordering function, users save even more time when procuring spare parts.
If you want to benefit from the advantages of the interactive spare parts catalog, you need one thing above all: the will to simplify processes and digitize your spare parts business.
Would you like to get a comprehensive overview of the functions of the digital spare parts catalog? Try it out for yourself:
Once you have decided to digitize your after-sales, create your spare parts catalog and set up your service information system in just four steps:
