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The interface with the vendor should be carefully controlled. It is advisable to define a single point of contact for all system malfunctions, both hardware and software, to ensure that the vendor has a consistent and reasonably knowledgeable contact person. This will also ensure that new users do not call the vendor for events that are neither repeatable nor likely to be due to a system malfunction. Throughout the life of the CAD/CAM/CAE system a number of problems will arise, some due to system failures and inadequacies, but many due to incorrect preparation and the misuse of existing data. The system support team should ensure that frequently required, critical repetitive steps that can be standardized are handled by macros or programs. The aim should be to make it difficult for users to go wrong. The procedure should include a means of communicating a serious problem within the company to ensure that management is aware of the difficulty and that the importance of the problem is emphasized to the vendor. There should be a single person or body in the company that approves all future enhancements or new equipment from any vendor. This is especially important in large companies where there are a large number of different functional areas with varying needs that require co-ordination. This should not stop appropriate people from reviewing the market to see how their individual requirements can be met, and it should help to ensure that compatible systems are chosen. Scope This procedure covers all contact with CAD/CAM/CAE vendors. Content There should be two main sections. The first should deal with controlling the contact with the vendor of existing equipment. The second should define the steps necessary to prove, co-ordinate, and approve a requirement for CAD/CAM/CAE resources from any vendor and define how installation should take place. Checklist
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