Parts Ordering Software includes multi-language support.
Press Release Summary:
Downloadable 3D models can be displayed with 3D PartStream.NET® v6, enabling global users to view, download, and configure 3D parts models from online catalogs. Automated path provides replacement parts ordering in less than 5 mouse clicks, and exploded view exposes every component to ensure appropriate ordering. As cursor passes over component, corresponding part number and brief description appear. Reporting tools are also included.
Original Press Release:
SolidWorks 3D PartStream.NET Version 6 Brings Cost Savings, Efficiency to Both Suppliers and Customers
Latest release delivers multiple language support, faster replacement parts ordering and enhanced reporting tools
CONCORD, Mass., Feb. 23, 2004 - Parts suppliers can increase revenue and better serve customers around the world with new multi-language interfaces and additional time-saving features in the latest version of SolidWorks 3D PartStream.NET® service unveiled today.
3D PartStream.NET, which allows customers to download and configure 3D parts models from online catalogs, has become popular among parts suppliers trying to increase sales and shorten customers' product design time. The service registered more than 1.6 million product configurations or downloads from Web-based catalogs in 2003. SolidWorks 3D ContentCentrals(SM) also became an indispensable tool in the same year, as more than 50,000 unique users registered to access this online directory of suppliers offering downloadable 3D part models.
Multi-language support
Suppliers can expand global sales by using 3D PartStream.NET version 6 to display downloadable 3D models in any language. Now, customers around the world have the option to view, download, and configure solid models without having to translate part information themselves. This new feature also allows suppliers to generate a local CAD lexicon for industry-specific terms such as "cylinder bore size."
Multi-language support is vital for suppliers like SMC Corporation of America, one of the world's largest manufacturers of pneumatic cylinders with 9,200 distinct product series available in millions of configurations. "Speaking our customers' language is essential to giving them the best service possible," said Steve Hoffer, SMC's E-Tech Group leader. "This version of 3D PartStream.NET will enable us to accelerate our global growth. We look forward to implementing this capability in the near future."
Replacement Parts
Version 6 also helps customers streamline product design by offering an automated path that provides replacement parts ordering in less than five mouse clicks. Previously, customers had to wait for days or weeks to order and receive replacement parts because they had to request a PDF file of the parts, fill out a form, and fax the request to the supplier. Often, they find that they've ordered the wrong part because they didn't have enough information to determine if it would be an exact fit.
3D PartStream.NET eliminates the wait and the potential for errors by providing customers with an exploded view of the part, so that users can see every component. As users pass the cursor over a component, the corresponding part number and brief description appear. Clicking on the component highlights its specifications in a bill of materials (BOM) template below the solid model. Another click adds the component to a parts bin, where the supplier can provide the most current pricing information. From here, the customer can go directly to the supplier's checkout, reducing a process that once took days to a couple of minutes.
Enhanced supplier reporting options
Version 6 features a new registration service that allows suppliers to capture information such as contact or product download data after a customer signs up to view or configure a solid model from 3D ContentCentral or from a 3D PartStream.NET-powered catalog. This is a significant advantage for suppliers who may not have the resources to establish their own registration service, and may have been unable to accurately understand customer behavior.
SolidWorks has also enhanced the Content Manager, 3D PartStream.NET's primary interface for suppliers to manage their online CAD models. Suppliers can now access standard and customizable reports that summarize which customers are accessing its models via 3D ContentCentral, and how often. This kind of information allows suppliers to match targeted marketing programs to certain types of customers for the best results. It also provides suppliers with accurate information about which product models are the most popular for downloading and subsequent purchasing, and which ones should be eliminated from the online catalog.
"Whether shopping online for new shoes or a four-stroke motor, we live in a self-service world," said Bob Noftle, general manager of 3D content solutions at SolidWorks Corporation. "Success is measured in how fast and easy the 'checkout' is. This version of 3D PartStream.NET transcends traditional online catalog technologies by giving customers more options for reducing design time, and giving suppliers more options to better serve customers."
About SolidWorks Corporation
SolidWorks Corporation, a Dassault Systemes S.A. (Nasdaq: DASTY, Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA) company, develops and markets software for mechanical design, analysis, and product data management. Founded in 1993, SolidWorks' mission is to unleash the power of 3D for everyone in product development and foster a collaborative user community. In eight years of delivering product, SolidWorks has shipped more than 300,000 total seats of software worldwide. SolidWorks has offices around the globe and sells, distributes, and supports its products through a worldwide reseller network. For the latest news, information, or a live online demonstration, visit the company's Web site (www.solidworks.com) or call 1-800-693-9000 (outside of North America, call +1-978-371-5000).
3D PartStream.NET is a registered service mark, and 3D ContentCentral is a service mark of SolidWorks Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective owners. Copyright (c) 2004 SolidWorks Corporation.
