BellHawk Implementation Process

BellHawk Systems provides the software and services needed to implement Materials Tracking and Traceability solutions. Where needed, BellHawk Systems works as a team with suppliers of barcode, RFID and mobile computer equipment as well as with IT services organizations to deliver complete turnkey solutions. .

A client engagement typically starts with a determination of the problems that a prospective client is trying to solve. This is typically done by telephone conference. From this, BellHawk Systems will develop a preliminary proposal with an estimate of the budgetary costs to solve the clients' problem.

This preliminary proposal will include a description of the BellHawk software modules to be used, proposed barcode and wireless mobile data collection equipment to be used and an estimate of the cost of the services needed to assist the client in implementing the solution.

Except for very simple systems, we recommend that you start by requesting a 30 day free trial of the software, accessible over the Internet through the WebHawk web-browser interface. This enables clients to document what customizations and support services they will require. BellHawk Systems will then provide accurate cost estimates for these customizations and services as part of the client's pre-implementation planning.

We recommend that clients start by implementing a limited system that is focused on one or two specific problem areas rather than trying to solve all their problems at once. Then, once the system is up and running it is easy to incrementally add capability to solve additional operational problems.

We also strongly recommend that the client appoint a project manager from within their team who will be responsible for working closely with BellHawk Systems' project manager. These project managers will be responsible for coordinating the installation and setup of the tracking system, testing that the software is working correctly, training and supporting the end users.

Except for highly customized systems, we start out by working with the client's information technology (IT) staff to install a base system and selected modules at the client's site in a training-room pilot installation. We then use this to train the client's project manager and to get initial setup data imported into the system.

Then, as soon as any required customizations are ready, they will be integrated into the system and, after testing, training of the end users will begin. Typically this starts out with managers, supervisors and lead people, who will then be responsible for training their own people in how to use the system to collect data.

Installation, setup, training and support is typically done remotely over the internet using technologies such as GoToMeeting to save on travel time and cost. But our staff members are available to provide these services on-site as needed by our clients.

Comments from users during training may show up the need for additional customizations for the system. If so, then BellHawk Systems will provide a firm fixed price quote for each customization and the client can decide whether they wish to purchase this customization. BellHawk Systems will then quickly turn-around the customizations so they can be integrated into the training.

In parallel with this, integration with other systems, if needed, typical takes place. These interfaces are typically developed as a team effort between BellHawk Systems' technical staff, the client's IT staff and their consultants who are expert in the internal workings of the ERP, accounting or other system to which an interface is being developed.

Finally, when everyone is trained, we recommend that the system go live incrementally and in parallel with existing systems until everyone is satisfied that the new system is working correctly.

If we are starting with an inventory system, typically implementation starts with taking inventory using the BellHawk system and reconciling any differences with existing inventory counts. Then materials are recorded as they entered into inventory and withdrawn from inventory. Once that is running OK, then we will bring receiving and put-away or finished goods picking, packing and shipping on-line. Then finally we will tie in production and work-in-process tracking.

If we are starting with a work-in-process tracking system, we will start by tracking jobs and work-in-process in a simulated mode in the training room and then we will transition to the floor. Then we can subsequently add-in the tracking of raw materials brought to the line and finished goods put-away or shipped from the line.

One question we are frequently asked is: How long does this typically take? It typically takes about three months to get an initial system functioning, with all the people trained and the system shaken down ready to go live. Then organizations typically take a few months to get their initial system fully shaken down operationally.

Clients then add operational capabilities, over the years, as their needs operational needs change or they decide to use BellHawk in other areas of their business.

For a PDF document that describes both the pre-sales and post-sales implementation process used by BellHawk Systems, please see " BellHawk Implementation Process"

For more information or assistance with a specific project, please click on the link below and provide us with information about your specific needs or call 1-508-865-8070 and press"1" for Client Services.