Rhino Aluminium turns to First Degree Systems for a software solution
When Kent-based Rhino Aluminium wanted to expand the business and make the most of new opportunities, they turned to First Degree Systems for a software solution that would help to efficiently increase the throughput of orders while minimising stockholding and maximising profit.
Based in Broadstairs, Kent, Rhino Aluminium was established in 2013 with the aim of providing aluminium windows and doors to the trade but on PVC-U lead times. Twenty-five operatives produce 200 frames per week from an 11,000ft² facility, and Jordan King, Project Processing Manager, said that efficiency is key to the smooth running of the business. “We have dedicated lines to each product – bi-folds, patio sliders, entrance doors and windows – which help manage the business and reduce the margin of error,” Jordan said. “And we expect our software to operate in a similar way. As we’ve grown over the nine years we’ve been in operation, we’ve wanted to improve our operation so that processes are removed, nothing is circulated on paper, and our stockholding is kept to a minimum. Unfortunately, our previous software provider was not able to provide the solutions we need.”
Rhino Aluminium moved over to a comprehensive Window Designer software package in 2021 on a ‘per license’ rental agreement, that included the Stock Assistant and Production Manager bolt-on packages. “Window Designer is a very straightforward programme,” Jordan said. “It is not an architectural piece of software like our previous system, which means it is a lot easier to use – in fact, anyone can use it. As you activate the other elements, you quickly appreciate how much the whole Window Designer suite can improve your business. For instance, Stock Assistant automatically manages your stock demands, while Production Manager schedules manufacturing and delivery. Together, they completely maximise the efficiency of your time and space, so you are not wasting money through holding excess stock or having machinery and people sat idle.
“Plus, some of our customers are quoting and ordering directly through Cloud Retailer, which removes the need for all double entry, and the need for paper orders. Previously, customers would send in hand-written orders, which would need to be amended, sent back to be checked, and resubmitted. Now it is managed automatically and sent direct to the order processing department.”
In the summer 2022, Rhino Aluminium invested in adding the scan stations on the factory floor, so that all orders are now communicated throughout the site electronically. “This makes life easier for everyone at Rhino,” Jordan said. “All departments have got an overview of the business – the production team, workers on the shop floor, office staff – and Window Designer is giving us the room and confidence to expand. We’ve got some great pieces of machinery, and our staff are hard-working and diligent, but until we moved over to Window Designer, we were limited in what we could do. Today, we have the time and the space to develop our aluminium offering, win new business, and improve our profits.”
Greg Beachim, Sales Manager at First Degree Systems, was pleased that Rhino was seeing the tangible benefits of investing in the right software. “Rhino are a forward-thinking company who are using the tools at their disposal to expand and make the most of opportunities,” he said. “I’m looking forward to a long-lasting relationship where we can continue to help make them more profitable.”
