Imagine this: Your electrical designer needs a motor-protective circuit-breaker for a project. Instead of trawling through data sheets, researching article numbers and entering technical details manually, he simply clicks on an entry in a sophisticated database - and all the relevant information appears automatically in the circuit diagram. What sounds like a small thing adds up to enormous time and cost savings that many companies still underestimate.
The hidden productivity killer
Companies waste valuable man-hours every day due to inefficient data management. Electrical designers often spend up to 40% of their time searching for and entering part data - time that is lacking for creative and value-adding tasks. A professionally structured EPLAN parts database addresses precisely this problem.
What makes a good article database?
A powerful EPLAN parts database is much more than a simple collection of components. It contains:
Complete technical data: All relevant parameters such as dimensions, electrical properties and pin assignments are stored.
Standardized designations: Unambiguous, standardized designations in accordance with DIN EN 81346 ensure clarity and consistency.
Linked macros: Ready-made symbol representations that can be inserted directly into circuit diagrams.
Structured metadata: Search functions and filters that make it easy to find what you are looking for.
Measurable added value for your company
The advantages of a well-maintained article database often only really become apparent in daily use:
- Time saving: Reduction of planning time by up to 30% by eliminating research and input work.
- Error reduction: Up to 80% fewer transmission errors thanks to standardized, verified data records.
- Standardization: Consistent presentation and naming across all projects.
- Knowledge management: Expert knowledge is stored centrally and is retained even in the event of staff changes.
The path to the optimal article database
An efficient article database is not created overnight, but is a continuous process:
- Inventory: Analysis of existing data and components currently in use.
- Structuring: Development of a logical classification and naming.
- Data entry: Systematic recording of all relevant information.
- Macro creation: Development of reusable modules for circuit diagram creation.
- Care: Continuous updating and expansion.
Best practice: The success story
A medium-sized mechanical engineering company has achieved impressive results by optimizing its EPLAN parts database: Planning times were reduced by 27%, errors in parts lists decreased by 64%, and the training time for new employees was reduced from several weeks to just a few days.
Your next step
Investing in a professional article database pays off after just a few projects. Start with a systematic inventory and define clear responsibilities for data maintenance. Professional EPLAN service providers can support and accelerate this process.
Don't underestimate what a well-structured article database can mean for your efficiency - it is the key to faster, error-free and consistent electrical planning.
