Step 1: Choose the right process
Good candidates are processes that are frequent, rule-based, time-consuming and error-prone. Poor candidates are one-off creative tasks or processes that change every week.
Step 2: Map the process as it really is
Sit with engineers and record each step: what they open, what they check, where data comes from, what decisions they make. Include the exceptions and workarounds. Screen recordings are very helpful.
| Step | Input | Action | Rule / decision |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sales order PDF | Read dimensions | — |
| 2 | Dimensions | Open template, edit parameters | Select frame size by width |
| 3 | Model | Create drawing | Sheet size by overall length |
| 4 | Drawing | Fill title block, export PDF | Naming convention |
Step 3: Capture the rules
Turn every decision into an explicit rule. Where engineers say "it depends", dig deeper until you find the conditions. Get the rules reviewed and signed off by a senior engineer.
Step 4: Standardise inputs and templates
Software needs consistent inputs. Clean up templates, standard parts and naming before automating. Define a structured input format, such as a form, Excel sheet or ERP order data, instead of free-text PDFs.
Step 5: Prototype the hardest part
Build a small prototype that proves the riskiest technical step, for example driving a complex assembly or generating a specific drawing view. This avoids surprises later.
Step 6: Build in increments
- Release 1: automate the most time-consuming step.
- Release 2: add drawings and exports.
- Release 3: connect to ERP, PDM or reports.
Each release should deliver value on its own.
Step 7: Roll out with users
Pilot with a small group, collect feedback, fix issues and provide short training videos. Assign an internal champion who owns the tool.
Step 8: Measure and improve
Compare time per job and error rates before and after. Use built-in usage logs to see which features are used and where users struggle.
Automation projects rarely fail because of code. They fail because the process was never properly understood.
Let us map your process
ENGIMANDI offers process mapping workshops followed by development of custom CAD tools. Talk to us on WhatsApp +91-9677261485.