CAD project management help needed

[bloodclot]

Hello all,
We have been discussing how to make the Engineering department more streamlined and productive. We currently have 2 CAD users, a technical writer, Engineering supervisor, and Engineering manager. Each of the designers (me included) have about 5 projects in process at all times. This does not include mini-tasks, non-engineering hats to wear (internal auditor, change requests, etc.). Even though we are 90% "paper-free" we spend about 50 percent of our time on electronic paperwork. This includes getting quotes for completed designs, generating P.O. Requests, ISO paperwork for projects, timelines for projects, design meetings, engineering meetings, ISO meetings, engineering change request meetings. All of these meetings require multiple forms of electronic paperwork, etc. The projects from the 2 designers go to the eng supervisor for review and he is overloaded as well. In addition to being the eng supervisor he is also the electronic prod supervisor, as well as about 3 other hats.

I have suggested adding an Engineering clerk to take over the "non- engineering" type work but the suggestion was met with resistance.

How do you guys & or girls manage your projects/engineering departments? What saves you lots of time. Is it software packages that help with project management, extra manpower,
what are your secrets to being PRODUCTIVE without drowning in paperwork? All suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance for your assistance.
Bloodclot

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[SphincterBoy]

bloodclot, can you be more specific as to approximately what percentage of the day is spent on non-engineering tasks?

Maybe if you present this to your management, it will help you in your argument FOR more help.

You sound as if you work for a small(er) firm, and what you described above is typical for such.

One software package which allows Pro/E users to work collectively is IntraLink, and it might be worth looking at.

I have been in your shoes, and can be horrowing, to say the least.