Gloucestershire-based
Truturn Precision Engineering (Charfield) Ltd has strengthened efficiency, visibility and confidence across its business since implementing
PSL Datatrack production control software, a system commercial manager Rebecca Beacham describes as “one of the best decisions we have ever made within Truturn.”
PSL Datatrack is manufacturing software designed specifically for sub-contract precision engineering companies. Covering everything from quotation to invoice, the system reduces manual processes, improves accuracy and provides complete traceability – key requirements for businesses operating in demanding, highly regulated industries. Truturn itself supplies precision machined components into sectors including aerospace, defence, medical, oil and gas, marine and nuclear. The company is independently owned with over 40 years of experience, employing around 25 people across the office and shopfloor.
The sub-contractors capabilities include CNC turning, milling, sliding head machining, welding and assembly, producing parts from 3 up to 500mm in diameter and 2 to 500mm in length. The business is ISO 9001:2015 accredited and is working towards ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, reflecting its commitment to quality, environmental and safety standards.
Prior to PSL Datatrack, Truturn relied on a manual quoting system supported by an MRP platform that had been in place for over 15 years. In an effort to modernise, the company transitioned to a new system, but the move quickly proved problematic. Rebecca explained: “It was totally the wrong decision for Truturn. It created so many issues on a daily basis as the system just was not compatible with manufacturing.” After a painful nine months, the business made the decision to move on.
The requirement was clear: find a system built specifically for subcontract precision engineers. PSL Datatrack’s exact focus on and reputation in this sector immediately stood out, reinforced by a recommendation from an existing customer. “We heard about PSL Datatrack through another user who had some great things to say about the software and the company behind it,” comments Rebecca. From the outset, the experience gave Truturn confidence. The sales process was “friendly, transparent and factual,” while the system itself offered a simple and logical structure.
Ticking all the right boxesRebecca continued: “The way the system flowed – data re-used from quotation to invoice – the way it’s set out and the total traceability available, we knew it was right for us. We needed something we could rely on, with accurate information and reports to improve our day-to-day working lives. PSL Datatrack ticked all the boxes.”
Implementation and training quickly reinforced Truturn’s decision. Rebecca added: “From day one, we cannot fault the team at PSL Datatrack. Everyone has been extremely friendly, helpful and patient. The training was very thorough and in-depth but manageable at every stage.” Ongoing support has remained just as strong, with help always available when needed. Rebecca said: “PSL Datatrack shows us everything in a way that ensures we understand every feature. The team are always happy to screenshare with us and point us in the right direction.”
Since going live in August 2024, the impact has been immediate. “Truturn has not looked back,” confirmed Rebecca. “We now have an MRP system that works completely as to what was sold to us. Day-to-day functions are a breeze and the traceability side of PSL Datatrack is phenomenal.” The system now underpins the entire production process, working seamlessly in the background from quotations and works orders through to scheduling, goods received, shop floor data capture (SFDC), despatch and invoicing. Reporting has also become far more accessible, with flexible outputs that can be generated quickly and exported where required.
This visibility has brought greater confidence to quoting, with improved success rates already being seen. Rebecca explained: “The way PSL Datatrack shows the quote in front of you with no hidden information means we have complete transparency.” A major step forward has been the introduction of the Sequential Scheduler module. Previously reliant on manual planning, Truturn now benefits from a system that provides realistic, forward-looking schedules.
Rebecca added: “This is a first for Truturn. We used to manually schedule – whereas now we have a complex system that plans for you with realistic information that can be supplied to the customer.” The result is improved planning, clearer communication and increased confidence in delivery performance. The wider impact across the business has been significant, contributing to measurable growth and a more streamlined way of working. In some cases, the simplicity of processes has even come as a surprise – “Is that all I’ve got to do?!” – highlighting how effectively PSL Datatrack reduces the administrative burden for sub-contractors.
Real-time visibility of expenditureAs Rebecca puts it: “We cannot express enough how much PSL Datatrack is benefitting Truturn ... it is the best thing we have ever done.” Building on recent success, Truturn has since invested in PSL Datatrack’s Job Costing module, providing real-time visibility of expenditure against works orders. This additional insight allows the business to monitor profitability at every stage, improve efficiency on repeat jobs and make more informed decisions using detailed reports.
Looking ahead, Truturn is keen to explore further opportunities within the system, including advanced Sequential Scheduler features, custom reporting and the introduction of shop floor Status Boards to enhance visibility across the factory. “The more we invest into PSL Datatrack, the more we get out,” Rebecca noted. “This ultimately relieves pressure from the day-to-day working lives of our employees.”
Reflecting on the journey, Rebecca is clear about the impact PSL Datatrack has had: “From the moment we had our first conversation to the ongoing support we have now, it has been nothing but an enjoyable, positive experience and one of the best decisions we have made within Truturn.”
Rebecca concluded: “The scary and daunting task of looking into a new MRP system to implementing it was something Truturn needed to do for the future of our business. From our first conversation with PSL Datatrack, we knew we were making the right decision. The system is laid out in such a way that it works for whoever is using it – it just makes sense. The continued support does not go unnoticed and we cannot thank PSL Datatrack enough – it has saved Truturn!”
Geoff Gartland, PSL Datatrack’s managing director, said that working with Truturn Precision Engineering has been a pleasure, praising the team’s engagement and commitment throughout implementation and go-live. He concluded: “The company’s structured approach and willingness to embrace the system ensured a smooth transition, providing a strong foundation for continued growth. We look forward to being a part of the next chapter.”