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A windows fabricator has spoken of the huge savings his company has made since installing a windows design software package.
Darren Barraclough, managing director of Alternative Windows, said: “It’s transformed the way we work, and it’s improved our profitability.”
The Leeds-based firm use an integrated suite of software from First Degree Systems specifically designed for the window and conservatory industry.
Darren said: “The system is invaluable to us. The initial cost of the software is irrelevant when it helps you make two or three times that in extra profit. And, if the capital investment is a problem for smaller companies, First Degree now has a low-interest finance option that alleviates the initial investment.
“We began with another fabrication package but we moved across to First Degree because there are advantages to having one integrated system. It saves money and cuts labour costs, especially the Bar Code Tracker and Machining Centres.
“We also benefit from free software upgrades, so every time First Degree improves the system, we benefit. You could say the two companies have developed together; we’ve given our opinion of the system’s performance in the workplace and they’ve taken the suggestions on board and keep producing an ever better product. We’ve worked like that for ten years now. Recently, First Degree Systems has enabled us to move to bigger premises by helping the office seamlessly liaise with the shop floor while overseeing our improved output.”
Alternative Windows recently upgraded to the new 6.8 version of Window Designer, boosting productivity and helping them stay ahead of their competition.
First Degree Systems Operations Manager Alan Bark said: "Alternative Windows have used First Degree software for a number of years. I like to think we’ve helped each other grow in the industry.”