The latest release of Datatrack, a modular production management and business administration software system, is now available from Bracknell-based Prospec Systems Ltd (www.psldatatrack.com). Among the enhancements, data input and historical data searching are quicker as a result of predictive text and intelligent list boxes.

Cross-referencing and access to data from other business areas within the system have also been improved, while supporting correspondence and documentation can now be stored and accessed in more modules, thus providing greater ability to share information between colleagues.

In the latest release, the quotations function offers greater flexibility to set hourly rates, as well as the ability to provide an instant financial breakdown for rapid decision-making and time-saving management of changes to routing descriptions.

Improved definition and control of raw materials provides easier monitoring of material usage and can reduce the time required for stocktaking, while automatic management of one-off tooling charges ensures that costs do not get overlooked when processing sales orders.

Quality improvements include automatically providing alerts to potential issues when receiving raw materials or components back from a sub-contract process. Furthermore, the retrieval of material and sub-contract certificates has been made easier.

Scheduling accuracy has also been improved by allowing variable operation efficiencies, while the shopfloor can now log technical comments where variations from planned set or run times are encountered.

Finally, standard reporting has been updated to include KPIs (key performance indicators) for deliveries to customers and from suppliers, as well as the ability to report on jobs that may qualify for R&D tax credits.