An increasingly sophisticated end-user environment requires that companies bring customized products to the marketplace more efficiently.  As market demands change, the formula that didn't work last year may be the perfect solution to current needs. 

If an existing product needs modification to meet specific customer specifications or more stringent regulatory demands, however, preparation and subsequent testing of several formula modifications presents a time-consuming obstacle.   Formulators need to use every tool at their disposal to streamline the development process.  In the current environment, Window®-based, computerized formula-management and regulatory-control software specifically tailored to the process-manufacturing industry represents one such approach.

Advanced Software Designs, Chesterfield, MO., a developer of formulation-management software for over 15 years, recently introduced ProductVision™, a client-server, Windows-based formulation management system designed to address current market needs.   Standard Windows features such as multi-tasking windows, task bars and menu tabs, drag and drop editing, and visually oriented tree views of formula provide a user-friendly environment.  Written as a client-server application, the system can handle large, complex databases and multiple users.  It also can interface easily with other client-server applications on the network, such as providing formulation data to an MRP (production-planning/inventory) system.

Although much of the functionality of the system will be familiar to users of DOS-based formula-management software, the Windows functionality and the power of the client-server application have been designed to help meet more demanding requirements.

The system includes two distinct modules for the paint, coatings and ink industry.   The Formula Management (FM) Module offers a tool for formula development, costing and analysis, including generation of many standard reports.  It manages all raw-material information required for formula input.  Input and editing within the Windows environment is simple, allowing the user to drag and drop items into the formula.

System features include the ability to rebulk a formula and automatically convert formulas between weight and volume.  Ingredient levels or costs can be modified to determine the impact on the overall formula cost.  The data-query function allows the user to search for raw materials and formulas meeting specific component, property or cost constraints.

The program also includes "what if" functionality.  Using this feature, the user sets a target for one of several properties and then specifies which ingredient levels should be adjusted to meet the target.  The computer performs multiple iterations, proportionally increasing or decreasing the level of ingredients selected to determine if the target can be met.  Formula compositions that may have required several rounds of experiments to determine empirically can be calculated much more quickly and easily.

ProductVision's Regulatory Compliance (RC) Module integrates with the FM module to simplify compliance with hazardous communications regulations.  The module generates Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) that are driven by the raw-material and formula information changes, the MSDS will automatically reflect the changes.  MSDS multi-format and multi-language capabilities allow MSDS reporting flexibility for global customers.  Reports necessary for U.S. customers, such as TARA I/II and Section 313 reports, are also available.

With these capabilities, this product-development system can help deliver the competitive edge needed in the demanding marketplace into the 21st century.

Written by Lynn Zwickert, Vice President, Advanced Software Designs.

Reproduced with permission of PCI.   This article can be seen in the September 1998 issue under the "Producer's Preview" section.  For subscription information, visit their web site at www.pcimag.com.