The UK aerospace industry is a vital component of the economy. According to the International Trade Administration, the industry is the second largest in the world and in 2018, the total civil aerospace turnover totaled over $44.6 billion. The sector also had approximately 17% global market share.

Remaining in this competitive position is dependent on a combination of world-class products and multiple regulations and certifications, which are considered during the overall manufacturing process. Uncertainty took center stage recently for the industry, where Brexit posed a potential regulatory divergence dilemma. By exiting the EU, many were left wondering whether the aerospace industry would continue to stay aligned with European aviation regulations. Bearing in mind this uncertainty, manufacturers should be aware that specific solutions such as scheduling, visual APS and traceability are vital in managing the compliancy process.

Traceability vital in managing the compliance process

Traceability is especially challenging because problems can occur at any point along your supply chain, from R&D through materials handling to assembly and shipping. Broken or slow processes can be particularly costly – and even lethal. Being able to schedule quickly and accurately will reduce downtime and enable manufacturers to maximize order fulfillment and resource utilization, collect data from the shop floor and track employees, equipment and orders in real-time. This will lead to a reduction in loss and will drive continuous improvement.

ERP provides full visibility throughout the supply chain

A state-of-the-art ERP system would be able to monitor how your supply chain and your own production line is tracking against the regulations that are required. When selecting an ERP provider that provides full visibility throughout the supply chain, here are a couple of considerations:

• Your ERP solution should enable greater visibility, compliance and quality control in the procurement and supplier selection process. This includes the ability to capture and maintain predetermined sourcing policies to facilitate the selection of recommended and pre-approved suppliers during the purchasing cycle
• Regularly performing mock recalls will enable you to test and continually improve on the effectiveness and robustness of your traceability system, thereby increasing the likelihood of a quicker time to completion in the event of an actual product recall
• Compliance with regulatory bodies
• ERP can ensure that any products produced and packaged on the premises are traceable back to the components and primary packaging. With quick and easy access to all of the key product information recorded in the purchase, production, packaging, sale, distribution, and delivery of a product, you can swiftly trace and quarantine stock which is defective, damaged, hazardous or of inferior quality

While those in the aerospace sector are continuously balancing improving operational efficiency and keeping pace with the ever-changing industry, maintaining control over the management of the end-to-end manufacturing process can ensure the viability of your business for many years to come.