Lockstep features

- LockStep and Enterprise - Automatic loading of appropriate editor into user interface for selected object means no time wasted in navigating other applications or interfaces.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -   Text steps are created in a text editor designed with just the right amount of functionality. All of the tools are visible on the tool bar and there is no need to search menus for commonly used features.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -   This built-in picture editor is used to perform common editing functions (including crop, changing contrast or brightness, and annotating** an image with arrows and text callouts). **Picture annotations are always grouped with the image and stored in the picture repository for easy editing.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -    The integrated editor allows users to perform spreadsheet functions that are most commonly used in documenting work instructions

    - LockStep and Enterprise -    Pictures are added by automatic download when pictures are taken on an attached camera.  See System Requirements for supported cameras using this feature.

   - LockStep and Enterprise -     Pictures are added to work instructions by dragging a picture from Microsoft folders directly onto the graphical instruction tree.

   - LockStep and Enterprise -    Information is presented in a view representative of the manufacturing process - a subassembly is made up of parts assembled in operations completed by performing discrete instructions. This feature reduces the workload to collecting the right pieces of information and putting them into the correct order--we take care of the formatting.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -    The graphical instruction tree makes it simple to reorder, copy, or paste information in your work instructions. Drag and drop capabilities combined with the automatic formatting functionality make  line balancing and updates exceptionally easy.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -    Parts and Assemblies are global objects that can be reused and if attributes change, all processes are updated automatically to reflect the change.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -    Tools are global objects that can be reused and if attributes of the tool change, all processes are updated automatically.

    - LockStep and Enterprise -   Current step is automatically saved and a new step added to the tree. This feature saves time when documenting step-by-step processes found in manufacturing. This is one of the key features which allows the writer to document the process on the factory floor in one build cycle.

        - Enterprise Only -    Sequence allows authors to create 'global' steps enabling reuse of information and improving maintenance.  When a "global" changes, the information within it changes everywhere it is used.  This can include best practices or common processes that are inserted into larger work instructions.  This could also include completely common work instructions/routings that are used for multiple products.  Judicious use of 'globals' will substantially reduce the cost of developing and maintaining a large number of instructions while increasing quality and standardization.

       - Enterprise Only -    As opposed to maintaining separate documents for expert and novice operators, novice instructions are organized as indented details to the expert instructions on the Graphical Instruction Tree. As such, instructions are presented at detail based on the skill-level of the operator.

        - Enterprise Only -   Rather than a summary BOM and Bill of Tools for the whole process, operators receive a tools and parts list exclusive to their particular task.

      - Enterprise Only -    Imagine a common instruction that is used in a family of products where the only difference is the length of a cable.  This feature allows authors to maintain one "global instruction" for all those scenarios while inserting the cable length as variable text.

- Enterprise Only -  Sequence allows you to include links to files on your network for viewing in their native formats; for example, CAD files, material certifications, etc.

   - LockStep and Enterprise  - No need to manually format your documents! In just seconds, LockStep automatically formats work instructions into PDF documents suited for different audiences or purposes. (see some sample PDFs)

    - LockStep and Enterprise Only - Work instructions can be printed in a variety of PDF formats including standardized worksheets for veteran employees, or detailed instructions for the trainee. Click and pick a format!

   - LockStep and  -LockStep stores pictures and text in a format which uses less than 10% of the space required for the same information in a Microsoft Word Document..

    - Enterprise Only - Operators can be defined as expert or novice based on their skill level and experience.  Sequence automatically prints the instructions with the appropriate level of detail presented to an operator.

- LockStep and Enterprise - Automatically maintains draft, published, and retired versions of instructions.  Opening any previous version of an instruction is just one click away.

- Enterprise Only - A single centralized database allows enterprise-wide collaboration, access, and control of instructions.

- Enterprise Only - User-based security creates individual profiles and determines what actions those users can perform and what parts / assemblies they can access. Privileges include: viewing, editing, approving, quality, and administrative.

- Enterprise Only - Controlled check-in/check-out functionality maintains order in a multi-user environment.

- Enterprise Only - Sequence maintains a summary of all changes associated with a work instruction including approver, date approved, superceding date, and reason for change.  A full set of release notes provides an audit trail for all changes to a work instruction.

- Enterprise Only - Formal process for routing a set of instructions through a designated "approver" before release to the shop floor.

- Enterprise Only - Similar to margin notes on a printed copy, these notes let you draw attention to specific aspects of your instruction.  Redlines can also be used to document suggested changes between collaborators.  Authors must address redline notes before approving a new version.

- LockStep and Enterprise - Advanced search engine to find ANY information (step, tool, part, operation, etc.) in LockStep for reuse in other work instructions.

- LockStep and Enterprise - Advanced cataloging and retrieval functions put specific work instructions at your fingertips in one step. This feature saves the user from manually searching folders in Microsoft Windows.

- LockStep and Enterprise - Folder for organizing shortcuts to commonly used documents.