Introduction
Software technology has thoroughly permeated sectors in non-IT industries, reshaping the way many industries function. From manufacturing to healthcare, finance to engineering, software isn’t merely an add-on, but an integral part of the operations. With this comes the increasing need for robust software testing and quality assurance, regardless of whether software is the primary product or just a tool to streamline tasks. To better understand this, let’s delve into our case study focused on the automation of a plugin for an engineering tool.
Benefits of Automation in Non-IT Industries
- Efficiency and Productivity: Automation handles repetitive tasks efficiently, reducing human error and significantly improving productivity.
- Cost Savings: Automation minimizes manual labor and optimizes resource utilization, leading to substantial operational cost savings.
- Consistency and Accuracy: Automation ensures high accuracy and consistency in task performance, a critical aspect in precision-demanding fields like engineering and manufacturing.
- Safety: Automation takes over hazardous tasks in risky industries, enhancing worker safety and reducing accident risks.
- Scalability: Automation enables handling of large work volumes without a proportional increase in resources, easing the scaling of operations as per demand.
- Data Management: Automated systems swiftly process massive data volumes, enabling data-driven decision making and valuable insights.
- Improved Customer Service: Automation enhances customer service with quick responses, efficient order processing, and personalized experiences, fostering higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Competitive Advantage: Embracing automation gives industries a competitive edge, enabling rapid response to market demands and quicker innovation.
- Integration and Connectivity: Automation allows seamless integration of various systems and processes, facilitating improved communication and collaboration across different teams or departments.
- Focus on Value-Added Tasks: Automation of repetitive tasks allows employees to concentrate on creative and high-value activities like problem-solving and strategic planning.
Case Study: Automating a Plugin for an Engineering Application
Our QA team member has been testing an engineering application focused on metallic structures and related aspects: beams, columns, bolt connections, forces, etc. The application, based on predefined settings and specific components, autonomously applies the right connection or returns an error message if the two components are incompatible.
Since each design change requires reevaluation and there might be thousands of components, the client needed to automate this process. With every update, the client must ensure the modifications do not negatively impact other areas or functionalities.
The challenge was to find a tool capable of automating Tekla plugins. The solution came in the form of Clicknium, a user-friendly tool that automates the entire workflow based on clicks. Python served as the programming language in this case, helping to automate the process and ensure quality and consistency efficiently.
Conclusion
Automation applications are transforming non-IT industries by boosting efficiency, saving costs, improving accuracy, enhancing safety, and propelling overall business growth. As the business landscape continues to evolve, we anticipate that the role of automation will only grow in importance, becoming an essential strategy for any organization looking to enhance its operations and stay competitive. This case study is just one example of how embracing automation can bring tangible benefits and offer a significant competitive advantage.
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