Successful Supply Chain Solution for Major Elevator Manufacturer

Background

A global elevator manufacturer faced a critical supply chain disruption. The company relied on one specific encoder manufacturer, but due to their inability to deliver, the customer (a major elevator manufacturer) needed a reliable replacement to avoid redesigning their applications. The urgency and specificity of their needs required a solution that could seamlessly integrate into their existing systems.

Initial Contact and Project Scope

The project began with a cross-reference request from the customer to replace their current encoder model. The initial scope involved developing a custom mounting plate for Encoder Product Company’s standard 25T encoder to fit the customer’s custom specification requirements. This custom solution allowed the customer to drop in EPC’s encoder without any application redesign.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Cross-Referencing and Customization: The customer’s existing encoder had a specific terminal block connector. EPC had to develop a custom encoder, creating three different variants. The first articles were shipped by July 2023
2. Customer Engagement and Responsiveness: The success of this project heavily relied on EPC’s responsiveness and willingness to work closely with the customer’s engineering team. Key EPC personnel played a vital role in maintaining strong communication and addressing all necessary requirements promptly. This level of service was highly appreciated by the customer, leading to positive feedback from their lead engineer and engineering manager.
3. Expansion to Other Locations: Following the success at one location, other locations expressed interest in the same encoder models. 

Key Events and Milestones

• Spring 2023: Initial cross-reference request by the elevator manufacturer
• Spring 2023: Project initiated and custom mounting plate developed
• Summer 2023: First articles shipped
• Fall 2023: EPC’s visit to the customer confirmed the successful integration and approval of the first articles
• Late-Fall 2023: Expansion of interest from the customer’s other locations, leading to  an order

Customer Relationship and Future Opportunities

EPC’s collaborative approach and ability to provide customized solutions fostered a strong relationship with this elevator manufacturer. This partnership is expected to yield further opportunities for both standard and unique product supplies. The customer’s proactive engagement with EPC during supply chain disruptions underscores the importance of reliable vendor relationships in critical industry sectors.

Conclusion

EPC’s successful cross-reference and supply chain solution for the elevator manufacturer exemplifies the importance of customization, responsiveness, and strong customer relationships. By addressing the customer’s immediate needs and expanding to additional locations, EPC positioned itself as a key partner in the supply chain, paving the way for future collaborations and growth opportunities.

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