A bonding experience

Automotive body repair manufacturer Bondo decided to mend its own product production process by enlisting some high-tech help. The company has deployed Optiva software from Formation Systems to strengthen and streamline product innovation and deployment.

Optiva's Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solution is said to give Bondo a holistic view into the product development process--from creation through introduction.

Says Bondo President Pat Formica, "Optiva provides us with the tools we need to better utilize and share formula information to support new product development and expedite time to market, while also automating quality assurance, control and other business operations to maintain high standards."

The new software is enabling the manufacturer to align initial development with material specifications, regulatory compliance and other key factors in maintaining quality in current and future products, according to a recent news release.

With the customizable Web-based interface, users can set views and fields based on individual preferences. The Formulation module provides a single system of record for all R&D projects as well as existing product formulas. To streamline and automate global regulatory restrictions. Compliance serves as a single point of reference among Bondo's quality assurance, quality control and product development departments.

Bondo produces more than 700 items, including automotive body repair products, paint removers, spray paints, primer and other household products, and marine products.