Customer experiences

From quotation work to CNC control, with Matrix it is all efficiency

Nico Wiersma
Carpentry factory WHB Sneek

Matrix makes it easy

Nico Wiersma can not imagine how he could ever work without the Matrix software. The director and co-founder of WHB Sneek Timmerfabriek now knows from experience how much time and cost the use of Matrix saves him. "Since we opted for MatrixKozijn, the efficiency of the entire production process has improved considerably. Moreover, the risk of errors is reduced to a minimum. An important advantage of our prefabricated products and that is what our customers think too!"

Automation is a must

Wiersma does not hide his enthusiasm about his choice for Matrix. "In the beginning we worked without software. Believe it or not, we then made quotations in Word and had to calculate the door, window and glass sizes themselves. But that did not last long. We noticed that competitors who automate quickly took the lead. So we purchased MatrixKozijn within a year of our start. And we have not regretted it for a second. It was, of course, an investment, but a very good one!"

Flexible software

Manual calculation and quotation work has not been available for Wiersma ever since. "MatrixKozijn just has everything on board to make it easy for us. And the beauty is, it works just the same for everyone. I mention something: where the one chooses standard for slot A, the other person prefers slot B in his doors. If you enter that type of details and preferences neatly for the first time, you fill in your software with data as it were. And the longer you work with that software, the 'richer' he becomes. Eventually it becomes a kind of library, from which you can generate all kinds of data quickly. Plus a constant price. A frame tender for a complete house you do in about half an hour. Complete with neat order confirmation on an A4 paper."

Dutch window frames tailored to the CNC machine

For several years WHB Sneek has a CNC-controlled machining center. A machine that is standard equipped with its own factory software. "But we did not think that was useful," Wiersma says. "The chance of errors when transferring data is considerable. And you're just doing double work. You can immediately see that in the extra man hours, while your machine is also stationary. We have therefore chosen to equip our CNC machine with MatrixKozijn CNC, especially for wooden frames. This means that everything is perfectly coordinated. The drawings from MatrixKozijn go to the customer for inspection and after approval we send them to the CNC machine for production. Speaking of efficiency ..."

Open for improvement

Although the Matrix software is very user-friendly, not everyone can work with WHB Sneek. "You have to get a good look at it," says Wiersma, "and that time can not just be missed by our employees. Is also not necessary, because who wants to know something can call the helpdesk of Matrix unlimited. Especially at the start we had almost daily questions, then we were always called back the same day. Because I work daily with Matrix, I also notice immediately what can be done better. The link for control of the counter is such an improvement point. Or the integration of finger welding, for lengths that do not fit on our machine. Matrix is ​​completely open to that and if it can do something, she can do something with it."

About Timmerabriek WHB Sneek

Timmerfabriek WHB Sneek is a real family business. Founded in 2008 by the two cousins ​​Wiersma, the company is known as a reliable partner for small construction companies and self-employed entrepreneurs. In our own factory a small but driven team produces high-quality window frames, windows and doors to size and delivers them with or without glass. In addition, environmentally-friendly wood species are used extensively. WHB Sneek has everything it takes to deliver not only large batches, but also small series and even individuals in ever-changing sizes. The specialists at WHB Sneek know and exploit the infinite application possibilities of wood as a building material for residential and non-residential building projects. Thanks to this extensive expertise, clients know that they can always expect the highest quality. The products of WHB Sneek are successfully applied in the most diverse new construction and renovation projects.

They have knowledge about software and about doors & windows.

Ed de Groot
Kumij Windows & Doors

Understanding of things

Developing software for the window and facade industry requires more than software skills. "That's what I like about the makers of Opticalc: they understand window frames," says director Ed de Groot of Kumij in Groningen. The company has been using the Opticalc software for thirty years. "I'm guessing that we are just about the oldest customer using Opticalc," says De Groot. "From the start we were enthusiastic about the software. We only had one concern: the software was delivered and maintained by a very small company. That is exciting. What if something happens to one of the key people? But now Opticalc is supplied by Matrix Software. We have the best of both worlds: the whizzkids from that time are still behind the software. And with Matrix there is a robust, solid organization behind. "Opticalc automates all departments in both trading companies and production companies, such as Kumij, with one totally integrated solution. The company supports companies from quotation request up to and including financial reporting. It is a so-called open system, so that virtually every database can be used.

Knowledge

What De Groot really likes is that "the makers of Opticalc know what window frames and doors & windows are. I do not have to explain to a developer what a water slot is. He understands that right away and then asks me "And at what distance do you want to have the slots?" And that's how I am talking to a doors & window expert. "The director sometimes admits to other programs. "But our window frames are so specific, that did not fit into the framework of that software. Take the fact that our window frames rotate in and out - only Opticalc can handle it properly. "Kumij uses modules for design, calculation, work preparation and production. Precisely the integration of all these components offers advantages. "It makes production efficient, prevents mistakes and keeps costs down", says De Groot. It is also pleasant that the software can be integrated into other programs. "Opticalc is very user-friendly for our technically oriented employees. I understand that a layman can do very little with it, but anyone who understands window frames can read and write with it. "

Customization

Matrix Software currently provides for the connection of the software to AX Dynamics, the ERP system for which the Rollecate Group (which Kumij is part of) chose. In addition, Matrix cut the software when it comes to purchasing new machines. "We went around the table with the machine builder and Matrix. As a result, the software is precisely tailored to those machine lines. "De Groot is just as satisfied with Matrix as about the software. "It is organized tightly and customer-friendly. Also important: Matrix continues to invest in the software. This is necessary because our company and technology change continuously. And so we are looking for a partner that changes with us. "

About Kumij

Kumij is based in Groningen and is part of the Rollecate Group, a leading manufacturer of plastic frames, which supplies and installs its frames throughout the Netherlands. The high-quality plastic frames are used in renovation and new construction projects for housing corporations, contractors, architects and owners' associations. Kumij's flexible project organization has more than 120 employees and has more than 55 years of experience in providing customized solutions in the area of window frames. Attention is paid to profiling, detailing and construction, but also to building coordination, residents' information and delivery.

This is thé online quotation and calculation tool for doors & windows

Henk Weber
director KUFA Window systems

Two companies, one ambition

Although KUFA Window Systems is still a relatively young company, it is in the Benelux already firmly on the map as a specialist in plastic frames. In short In this area, various breakthroughs have come about and the ambitions of this frame pioneer continues. Director Henk Weber does not just want the market serve, but also initiate and anticipate new developments future needs and applications within the sector. "Innovation is for KUFA therefore no side issue but a precondition, "he says. "And there is the close one collaboration with Matrix a good example. "Since the start in 2009 makes KUFA intensive use of MatrixKozijn for the department calculation, work preparation and the CNC machine control of the production. According to Weber "A smart and balanced software program that is fast and efficient can perform some essential calculations. Only this software runs traditional on the PC, while the market at one point asked for one online application. We have raised this with Matrix and that is one of them joint initiative to create the online brother of MatrixKozijn develop. Internally we use our own product name for it, but with Matrix is called the WebKozijn. "

Calculate online from A to Z

With this online tool, individuals and resellers can go online make calculations and orders directly from KUFA. After ordering, the frames produced directly via the CNC control from MatrixKozijn. Weber: "It is a handy online quotation and calculation module, which we use manage the order process with our partners step-by-step. There they are huge helped, because often they do not have their own order or quotation system. Thanks to WebKozijn, we can easily facilitate this and that is how we are more than just a supplier of window systems. The system is everywhere available: one login code and you're in."

Stunningly simple

WebKozijn is an open and transparent system. All aspects of it order process are processed in the online step-by-step module. That makes the calculation made of plastic frames amazingly simple. "In a few simple steps you go through the process from customer request to quotation to order ", clarifies Weber. "You pass on a few things, such as dimensions, kind glass, colors of window frames and turned parts. And then the quotation rolls as it were that way. Suppose the customer adjusts a frame height, so that there is one somewhere part comes with, then immediately changes the price. We also send via WebCoach all machines within the production process. The orders are so really tailor-made and you immediately see the actual price. You can do that you immediately order accessories and other additional products. "

WebKozijn is the solution for everyone who is a regular business plastic window frames needs. "With this system, we have all the data ready to go fast able to produce and deliver. An additional advantage for our partners: they have with WebKozijn no costs for the purchase of your own calculation and offer package. That is a service from us. As a partner of KUFA you can immediately print out a ready-made offer with your own logo and within one program manage all your calculations and quotations. And do you want to be old-fashioned with us? 'Sparring' or keeping something up to the light? Then you can still use the mail request quotations and order from us. "

Discover Matrix WebKozijn at: www.matrixkozijn.eu

About KUFA

KUFA Window systems is the leading manufacturer of plastic frames. This fast-growing company, founded in 2009, provides an extensive profile and
color program, mainly to the business market (contractors, dealers and project developers). The range consists of very high-quality and attractive window frames, not only in standard versions, but also in more exclusive series. KUFA guarantees a favorable price and a 'just-in-time' system with extremely short delivery times. The quality of the window frames is guaranteed because everything is made in our own factory - from profile to end product. This also makes it possible to innovate further, which has led to, among other things the innovative single and double HVL® frame, the lifelike wood grain Realwood® and various KOMO certifications. Find the KUFA specialists constantly looking for ways to improve the products and processes. Thanks to flat organization lines are short and customers can always be fast and expertly helped.

We are in control with Matrix Software

Mathee van de Vin
Van de Vin Doors & Windows

In charge

It is a special combination that Van de Vin Windows and Frames has made with regard to automation: on the one hand the company only works with software that has been proven in practice, on the other it gives direction to the development and the company tests the latest versions of software. "This way we ensure that we are in charge, that we use automation optimally," says director Mathee van de Vin. Van de Vin has been chairman of the Dutch Association of Windows and Frames and also knows the branch well from that position. For example, he knows that the switch to new software for producers of windows and frames is no sinecure. "Think very carefully before you choose", is his advice. "Because once chosen it is difficult to still change the beacons."

More benefits

Van de Vin himself chose Matrix Software in 1988. He still knows how it went the day of yesterday. "The company had acquired the first PC two years earlier. In 1988 we were one of the first users of MatrixKozijn, the program with which we made calculations and streamlined the work preparation. It was then very much getting used to. All of a sudden, data had to be entered in detail. The time that you made an offer based on intuition was suddenly over. "At that time, Van de Vin was mainly concerned about getting accurate information about more and less work. Soon it turned out that there were many more benefits. "Thanks to MatrixKozijn and Matrix's time registration system, the chance of errors and failure costs has been reduced significantly. We also save a lot of time, although we find it so common that we hardly consider it an advantage. "Time has not stood still. Van de Vin has recently switched to a completely new machine park. "Such a switch can be a reason to look at what else is on the market, but we have never seriously considered this consideration. We are very satisfied with what we have and that is not only due to the functionality of the software. The company that supports it is also important. Matrix Software is a stable, solid company with employees that we have pleasant contact with. "

Test company

That contact has been intensified recently, because Van de Vin Windows and Frames is a test company for Matrix Software: new versions of software are judged by a limited number of users to see what is good or bad. "With the switch to the Windows version we were richly late at the time. That was a conscious choice, we wanted to know for sure that all primary errors were out. It therefore seems strange that we are now trying to work with the latest of the latest. Yet that is logical. We want to be in charge, to be at the cradle of new developments and to benefit from that in the future. This can be done by testing new programs. "Despite his satisfaction, Van de Vin still has specific wishes. "We can not process the connection between window frames and walls completely automatically, because there are far too many variations. They can not possibly be cost-effectively placed in a single database. We will continue doing so for the time being. "According to the director, reducing the number of variations is not an option. "No thinking about it, the enormous amount of possibilities is the big advantage of wooden window frames. We must cherish that." (In the meantime, Matrix Software has establised a solution for this)

About Van de Vin Windows and Frames

Van de Vin Ramen and Kozijnen in Heeze works from the realization that windows and window frames largely determine the atmosphere of a home. The company has been producing windows and frames for more than fifty years and is regarded as a 'total solution' in that area. Van de Vin supplies products thanks tot strict process and quality control. It is produced according to a proven method, of which the quality assurance system has been developed together with TNO. This system offers Van de Vin, together with an advanced machine park and advanced automation, the possibility of further innovation.

We can no longer do without Matrix software

John Postma
Wesselink Doors & Windows

We can no longer do without Matrix software

John Postma can still be amazed that there are fellow entrepreneurs who do manual work that can be done with software from Matrix. The director-owner of Wesselink Kozijnen in Doetinchem can read and write with various programs from Matrix. "And that's because we were willing to delve into it. An investment that has earned itself back twice. "According to Postma, Wesselink Kozijnen leads the way in the industry and the director would like to keep it that way. "Thanks to our top spraying workshop, we supply windows and frames in the highest guarantee class, offer a constant quality of glazing and as a member of the Timmer Select group we are able to supply the special modified wood" Accoya "which is sustainable in all respects." high-level automation. "Not as an end in itself, but because it helps us to perform good quality and efficient work."

Tailored to practice

Wesselink Kozijnen uses MatrixKozijn and the connection created by Matrix of those programs with Office applications. Postma can enthusiastically tell stories about MatrixKozijn Project. "I an very interested in automation and therefore regularly check what is available. As a result, I know that just about everyone calls to have the ideal solution in-house, but that in practice it is pretty disappointing. MatrixKozijn Project is the exception, because it is really geared to practice. Whoever brings the discipline to put data in the system well and in time has a lot of fun. Quotations, orders, address details, telephone notes and links with programs such as AccountView: it's all there. "Because of the warm interest of Postma for automation, Wesselink Kozijnen is involved in the development of new versions of software from Matrix." So we have the latest version of MatrixKozijn has been extensively tested, compared to previous versions, the program has become faster again and new features have been added. That is also useful and handy: at MatrixKozijn, data entered is immediately included in drawings and calculations - with other software this is usually not the case."

Handy software

"There are a lot of options", Postma concludes. "I sometimes meet people who work with the same software and do not know a lot of options. That is very unfortunate. Take a moment to deepen your knowledge and a world will open up for you. "Which does not take away the fact that Postma sometimes leaves possibilities aside. "I find the links of the software with the Excel Office program handy, but automatically convert data to quotations in Word, I do not. We have our own, successful way of making quotations and I like to keep it that way. "Because no matter how useful software is, it should not lead to the users turning a uniform. Postma: "We have our own unique position on the market and we would like to keep it that way. But precisely thanks to a well-oiled automation, we have our hands free to confirm and strengthen that position. "

About Wesselink Kozijnen

Wesselink Kozijnen, established in the sixties and located in Doetinchem, provides façade work for new buildings and renovations. With traditional and automated machines, the company's 35 craftsmen make frames for small renovations and including large-scale projects, both in utility and residential constructions. The frames are KOMO-certified, are supplied with hinges and locks according to Resistance Class 2 and with SGT-Guarantee. Wesselink Kozijnen is FSC-certified and a member of the Timmer Selectgroep, a group of thirteen independent companies that continuously work on the innovation of the wooden frame. For example, the members of the group use the new modified wood type Accoya which is particularly low-maintenance and is provided with the FSC quality mark.

From calculation to CNC machine control: it's all in one effort

Jochem van der Linden
Director Carpentry company Van der Linden

Just good is not good enough

Mechanical carpentry company Van der Linden and Matrix know each other through and through. When Van der Linden started to automate more than 30 years ago, the choice on Matrix. "We would like to show that the carpentry business is still in full swing development is without losing the charm of the trade. Of each carpentry challenge, we create craftsmanship. The question we always ask ourselves: "Would we also make it like it was for ourselves?" Because with less than it we just do not take pleasure. That also applies to the materials, the machines and - yes, the software we use. "

Choosing with reason and feeling

For director Jochem van der Linden it is not up for discussion: "Without smart software you can no longer exercise this profession. You always have a sequel software needed to make calculations. And for that choice are not determine only the objective possibilities, but also where you feel the best you have. Software requires a serious investment in both time and money. You therefore choose a supplier for a longer period of time. "

Time savings through efficiency

Van der Linden works with MatrixKozijn and is very enthusiastic about it. "Calculation, work preparation and drawing room, they can all be done with the software to work. For us the most important functionalities are in it. The links are logical and efficient, so that we can save a lot of time in that area. Moreover, we limit the error margins of all kinds of technical calculations to one minimum.
In short, it means that the software converts our calculation to an order confirmation and then to the work preparation. Via extra modules we can then transfer the required data to the machines. "

Give and take

Of course there is always something to be desired. "A matter of giving and take it ", says Van der Linden. "We sometimes encounter situations in which MatrixKozijn is not completely foreseen. It stays with slanted and round frames still difficult to technically get the drawing right. For example, if we have one draw a framework and hang a floodfill, you have to meet certain conditions meet. Otherwise you have a problem with glazing beads and the like. The solution is to manually add the relevant data. So via We do get everything that we do, but I think it is still here opportunities for Matrix. We know that the renewed module for arched and round window frames will soon appear. We expect a lot from that.

Always up-to-date

Matrix regularly provides updates to be constantly up-to-date stay. "We install it as quickly as possible," says Van der Linden. "Already stick sometimes there are childhood diseases. Often it is a generic problem, that Immediately grasp the matrix in 95% of the cases and have it followed by a new one update. In general, the updates are clear enough and we do not have any training needed. Otherwise we call the helpdesk. There are people who are very well know what they are talking about. "

About Van der Linden

Mechanical joinery Van der Linden is a no-nonsense family business, that is already since 1974 commitment to perfect and beautiful carpentry. Quality always stands first and foremost, the bar is high, whether it concerns complex customization or series work. From der Linden works with passion for both contractors and private individuals. Because all more than 20 employees are all-round professionals, the company has few limitations in its product range. The assignments therefore vary from window frames and doors to stairs, dormer windows, fronts, (folding) walls, fencing and more. At Van der Linden go hand in hand with entrepreneurship and craftsmanship. On the one hand it ensures high-quality machinery for unrivaled accuracy. On the other hand still manages the entire team of professionals always the old-fashioned craft. The result: carpentry where Van der Linden is proud of.