DS-AUG26-PG26_Layout 1 04/08/2026 15:42 Page 1
FEATURE
SPRINGS & SHOCK ABSORBERS
55THanniversary EfficiEnt spring production A
t spring manufacturer William Hughes, the introduction of a real-time production dashboard is giving shop floor teams
instant visibility of manufacturing priorities, enabling them to make informed decisions without waiting for updates from the office. Displayed on two large rotating screens, the
dashboard draws live information directly from the company’s ERP system and updates every hour, providing operators with a constantly refreshed view of what needs attention.
visible data The display uses a colour-coded system. Springs highlighted in orange are due within the next two weeks and have already been coiled, meaning they are progressing through operations such as grinding, heat treatment, shot peening or hand finishing. Items shown in red are more urgent – they
are also required within the next two weeks but have not yet reached the coiling stage, signalling an urgent production priority. Jobs are grouped into small, medium and
large spring categories, allowing teams to quickly identify and focus on the work most relevant to their area. By making the data visible to everyone in real time, employees can now see exactly
what needs to be produced and adjust their work accordingly.
efficient manufacturing According to Emma Burgon, William Hughes engineering director, the impact has been immediate. She said: “Our teams are responding to production priorities independently, without the need for constant communication or manual direction. Everyone can see what needs to happen next, and they are taking action.” As soon as production teams
complete a coiling job, the information on the dashboard is automatically updated, removing the items from the priority list and ensuring the display always reflects the latest production status. “It’s not just about having data,” continued
Burgon. “It’s about making that data visible to the people at the coalface. When everyone can see the same information, decisions happen faster, communication becomes simpler, and we create a more connected and efficient manufacturing operation.” William Hughes manufactures advanced
springs, wire forms, assemblies and components to support your engineering challenges. And now, production of these has become even more efficient.
William Hughes T: 01963 363377
www.wmhughes.co.uk
2 DesiGn sOLUTiOns 1971-2026 JULY/AUGUST 2026 6
www.designsolutionsmag.co.uk
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