Document control helps manufacturers keep their documents in check. Organizations use document control software to manage structured documents used in the design, development and manufacturing of products, throughout their entire lifecycles.

Document control is the cornerstone of quality, compliance, environmental health and safety (EHS) and process excellence. Quality process information, work instructions, job descriptions, and specifications must all be created, revised, distributed, tracked and “retired” with consistency and efficiency. 

The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. According to Ty Webb, “The shortest distance between two points is a straight line…in the opposite direction.” 

Manufacturers are grappling with multiple challenges—global competition, evolving quality standards, regulatory compliance, and profitability—not to mention a demanding, informed consumer. With no room for inefficiency in managing operations, companies have to rely on internal business processes to effectively support the enterprise.

Keeping track of documents is essential for maintaining an audit-ready quality management system (QMS). 

Socrates said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” Another great mind, Ed Morse (in his keynote address at this past year’s Coordinate Metrology Society Conference), said, “Data is only as good as what you can do with it.” If you were so inclined to put these two thoughts together, you could see the current dilemma regarding Big Data.

Implementing a document control system is a good way to improve your processes, no matter what industry you are in. Having everything in one place helps you organize and handle your processes, job descriptions and other important material.

Regardless of the industry you serve, document control is one of the most prevalent applications in businesses today.

So, let’s say you’re headhunted by a tier one oil company to lead their upstream business process in a new territory where, amongst many other demanding strategic and operational responsibilities, you will need to procure and commission a new production rig.