Hosted Service Available for Gerber WebPDM
Product-development software has become a hot category for back-office operations. The shift of manufacturing offshore has dispersed operations to all parts of the globe, making it cheaper to manufacture but more complex. Software has helped to manage production, but its costs have been an obstacle for start-ups and smaller companies.
One solution is to go with a hosting service. Los Angeles–based TechPackCentral has launched such a service for Gerber Technology’s popular WebPDM software, which manages specs, costing and other data during the pre-production stage.
Led by former Gerber technician Kiyomi Chansamone, the company offers access to WebPDM to individuals and companies on a monthly fee basis starting at $95. The individual client cost for such a product can run into the six figures, not to mention maintenance costs, Chansamone said.
“We take away all the difficulties of maintaining [WebPDM],” she said. “Companies can focus on their projects, not the software.”
WebPDM connects design, engineering, costing and manufacturing information through a centralized database of product-related information via the Internet. The result is a unified version of specifications and product information in real-time that allows workers to collaborate remotely.
The software has proved it can increase productivity. Chansamone said the company also provides ways to customize and update line sheets and sales sheets, helping the sales and marketing departments of companies, as well.
Training is included. Chansamone also offers general WebPDM training through Fashion Business Inc. in Los Angeles. Her next course begins March 8 at the FBI Resource Center in The New Mart. For more information, visit www.techpackcentral.com or call (877) 837-2722. —Robert McAllister
