An internationally active automotive supplier was confronted with a product liability lawsuit in the tens of millions in the USA - and could no longer find numerous relevant documents. As in many companies, the topic of document management had been neglected for years. The result was an increase in legal risks and a decrease in efficiency, as well as growing frustration among employees.
A multi-stage audit concept was developed to create transparency about the existing document landscape. A self-audit designed by me enabled the locations to systematically record their current status without the need for on-site visits. In workshops with the departments, typical document flows were analyzed, requirements identified and risks assessed.
Individual structure instead of standard solution
Based on the results, tailor-made measures were developed for each location and department. The aim was not to digitally replicate analogue disorder, but to establish clear structures. In one case, this led to the complete reorganization of the SAP master data, which I coordinated.
Legal certainty through clear guidelines
In addition to organizational standards, legal requirements were also taken into account - such as the obligation to retain technical drawings, contracts and HR data. This also enabled location-specific requirements, such as those imposed by OEMs like Porsche, to be systematically covered.
The new document management system not only led to significantly improved retrievability and greater data security, but also noticeably reduced the legal risk. At the same time, unproductive working hours were reduced and processes were standardized across all locations. The case shows: Structuring today saves time and millions tomorrow.
The clean room production for plastic components was relocated from Germany to Slovakia within three months.This includes ramping up wafer equipment, digitalising process data, making ERP adjustments and training the team.
By optimizing the building infrastructure and reducing floor space by 30%, investments of EUR 1.9 million were saved. Additionally, a new plant construction order was realised without additional investment.
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