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Continuity or integration?
Data integration is often treated as a necessary evil—a technical challenge to be solved after the fact. But this framing misses a fundamental insight: Data only needs to be integrated when it's fragmented in the first place. Data integration is reactive: stitching together information that lives in different programs and formats. It may work, but it’s slow and error-prone. Every time you shuttle data between systems, it's an opportunity for data to get out of sync, details t
Oct 28


How a Common Data Environment Solves a Cabinet Industry Problem
The architecture, engineering, and construction industry faced a coordination crisis. Multiple parties—architects, engineers, contractors, suppliers—all needed access to the same project information, but they were working from different versions of the truth. Drawings were scattered across email, specifications existed in multiple formats, changes weren't communicated consistently, and rework was inevitable. The solution was the Common Data Environment (CDE): a single, author
Oct 18


When Technology Solves One Problem But Creates Another
Second-order Effects in the Cabinet Industry The promise seemed straightforward: new CNC machines and design software would let cabinet...
Sep 27


Outputs vs. Outcomes: Why Cabinet Manufacturers Need to Look Beyond Software
As a cabinet manufacturer, you've probably been there: evaluating the latest software solution that promises to revolutionize your operations. A new design program, CAM software, an ERP system, the sales pitch is always the same—this tool will solve your problems and transform your business. But here's the uncomfortable truth: while software programs can be powerful, they can create more problems than they solve, and actually slow your business down. The Problem with Solution
Aug 29


Evaluating Design-to-Production Software: 7 Capabilities That Matter
In today’s cabinetry and millwork operations, the link between design and production is more than a convenience—it’s a strategic advantage. The faster and more accurately you can move from a designer’s vision to the shop floor, the more competitive you become. But if you’re evaluating software to support that process, the options can be overwhelming. Many platforms look promising on the surface, but few are purpose-built for the realities of custom manufacturing, evolving pro
Jul 29


Understanding the Key Differences: Mass Customization vs. Traditional Manufacturing
As the market pushes more wood product manufacturers to offer customized products, information complexity is increasing. The time it takes to process the information for a custom product is often longer than the time to manufacture it, and the process is prone to errors. Mass customization lets customers shape products to their needs with unprecedented control. It enables manufacturers to offer more than just parametric products. It enables them to create an experience that f
Mar 6, 2024


Searching for Efficiency in Cabinet Manufacturing
In manufacturing efficiency isn't just a buzzword—it's the cornerstone of success. Every minute saved in production translates to...
Feb 13, 2024


Casework Quoting - The Limitations of Spreadsheets
In the world of cabinet quoting, Excel has long been the go-to tool for many businesses. Its low barrier to entry and familiarity make it...
Jan 30, 2024
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