How Cutting-Edge Tech Propelled ASC Flatpacks to New Heights
In 2014, Andrew Steel was at a crossroads. Working as a foreman for a medium-sized cabinet-making business, he found himself juggling full-time work with weekend side projects in cabinetry. Encouraged by his family, Andrew took a bold leap to start his own business. Initially, his operation was modest—just a small section of a factory with basic tools. But today, ASC Flatpacks is a thriving enterprise, thanks to the game-changing integration of Cabinetry.Online technology.
From Basic Tools to High-Tech Solutions
Andrew’s journey started humbly with a small edge bander and panel saw. “I knew I needed CNC because I did not want to hand drill and cut everything by hand,” Andrew recalls. His first taste of advanced technology came with a basic Australian-made CNC that required manual change of drill bits. Over time, as the business grew, so did the need for more sophisticated machinery and software.
This need was met when Andrew made a pivotal decision to integrate Cabinets by Computer software into his operations. “I remembered WoodCAM from my early days as an apprentice, and though it wasn’t user-friendly back then, the new iteration was transformative,” he shares. Travis from CBC not only set up the software but also introduced Andrew to the benefits of online ordering with Cabinetry.Online —a suggestion that would catapult ASC Flatpacks into becoming a leading name in the industry.
In his early days, Andrew often grappled with manual orders and the errors that arose from miscommunications and misinterpretations. “Every other flat packer I know has got to go by paperwork or a drawing handover, and that’s where the mistakes happen in the manufacturing side,” Andrew explains. In contrast, the shift with Cabinetry.Online has virtually eliminated these issues. “Now, with the online system, it’s clear what they order is what they get.” This digital transformation has not only elevated the accuracy of his work but also set ASC Flatpacks apart as a leader in the industry, ensuring streamlined operations and exceptional customer satisfaction.
Game-Changing Features:
3D Preview Tool and Benchtop Specifier
One of the standout features that has revolutionised Andrew’s workflow is Cabinetry.Online’s 3D Product Visualiser. “A client orders a 300mm wide cupboard and puts 2 doors on it, they’ll look at it instantly and go, that looks silly. The 3D preview helps them visualise what they’re ordering,” Andrew explains. This tool not only allows clients to see their designs in real-time but also helps them make informed decisions about dimensions, cabinet composition, and overall aesthetics. This level of detail minimises errors and enhances customer satisfaction.
Another invaluable feature is the Benchtop Specifier. “The benchtop ordering component is so good once again, just for the clients to visualise and go, I guess it does need to be seen on that end and that’s the way I want my join,” Andrew notes. The Benchtop Specifier allows clients to customise their benchtops down to the last detail, ensuring they get exactly what they envision. This tool streamlines the process, eliminates guesswork, and drastically reduces the potential for mistakes.
Exceptional Support and Customer Service
Andrew is quick to commend the support provided by the Cabinetry.Online team. “The support is amazing. Every time we put information into the portal or a ticket, they get replied to very quickly. I can’t think of anything that we’ve put in on a job that’s a problem that hasn’t been sorted out,” he praises. The prompt and efficient customer support system helps Andrew’s team stay on track, ensuring that any issues are resolved swiftly and effectively.
Andrew particularly appreciates the ticketing system and remote support via TeamViewer. “Sometimes we just leave you guys to it and walk away and do something else and come back and there’s an email or a message saying, you know, you’re good to go. It’s fantastic,” he adds. This level of support allows ASC Flatpacks to maintain a high standard of service and keep their operations running smoothly.
Inspirational Growth and Future Plans
Andrew’s journey from a small start-up to a burgeoning business is nothing short of inspirational. His strategic decisions, bolstered by his faith in running crucial aspects of his business with Cabinetry.Online, have paved the way for a future full of potential. Backed by the continual advancements of the platform, ASC Flatpacks is prepared to double, even triple, its output. “It’s just a win every which way I look.”
“We are now signing on with an advertising agency to focus on social media and Google ads to chase even more opportunities. My goal is to at least double our output, and I can see us comfortably handling triple the current workload with our new setup,” Andrew ambitiously states.
The Final Call
Andrew Steel’s story showcases the power of innovation and strategic planning. If you see parallels in Andrew’s journey with your own, it’s time to explore what Cabinetry.Online can do for you. Contact us today to discuss how our technology can transform your business. Embrace the future with Cabinetry.Online.
