“We now complete fewer steps to achieve the same result.”
DDM is an internationally active company specialising in a wide range of activities, from dismantling and relocation to demolition and asbestos removal. Whether dismantling bridges or safely removing petrochemical plants, DDM executes complex projects with high standards. Effective equipment management is crucial in these projects, with safety always a top priority. This is why DDM has chosen Centix’s equipment management software to support its processes. We spoke to Christel de With, Kees de Jong en Kim Velis about their decision to use Centix and their experiences with the system.
Opting for Centix
Before switching to Centix, DDM used another system to manage equipment and track inspections. However, despite this software, a significant amount of manual work was still required. In addition, multiple systems were in use for different processes, such as a separate system for placing orders, which led to inefficiencies. Kees explains: “At one point, it was no longer clear to us where everything was located or when inspections were due. It ultimately fell to the executives to remind us: ‘The inspections expire next month’.”
DDM began searching for equipment management software that could provide better oversight and automate tasks. They noticed QR code stickers on equipment at several companies, which sparked their interest. This led them to explore their options, eventually choosing Centix. Kim shares: “We are very happy with Centix. We now complete fewer steps to achieve the same result. The system is user-friendly, and everyone works within the same environment.”
All-in-one system
The key advantage for DDM is that Centix allows them to manage everything within a single system, eliminating the need for multiple platforms. This improves user convenience, as all processes run seamlessly through one integrated system. As a result, DDM has regained the oversight they were looking for.
Greater efficiency thanks to QR codes and inspections in Centix
With Centix, DDM has significantly streamlined the inspection and certification process. A key factor in this improvement is the use of QR codes on equipment, allowing employees to quickly access the information they need by simply scanning the QR code.
Equipment inspections are carried out internally, with each piece of equipment assigned its own MI plan, which the inspector follows. Once an inspection is completed, the certificate is generated directly in Centix. Thanks to QR codes, DDM employees have instant access to certificates without needing to search through sheds or containers for paper documents. Kim highlights this benefit: “Previously, we were constantly handing out certificates, both as hard copies and via email, but they would often get lost on-site. Now, with Centix, it’s as simple as scanning the QR code to instantly see that the equipment has been approved.”
Additionally, Centix provides clear reports, ensuring that executives and warehouse staff know exactly when certificates are due to expire. This helps keep inspections up to date and maintain safety standards. Kim adds: “The executives really appreciate the overview from Centix, which shows the inspections that are about to expire.”
Speeding up logistics processes
DDM frequently operates in locations where strict controls and precise documentation are required. Transporting equipment to project sites used to involve manually recording serial numbers—an arduous and error-prone task for employees. Kees explains: “For example, when we fill a container with equipment for a project at an industrial plant, we must document all serial numbers and other details before passing through the checkpoint. We needed a solution to speed up this process for our field staff.” Kim adds: “We also work extensively in ports, where a full inventory of your vehicle must be submitted before entering the site. These checks are strictly enforced. With Centix, we now have a system that stores all serial numbers and data, saving our field teams a great deal of manual work.”
“Centix is extremely user-friendly!”
Order process
Before implementing Centix, DDM used a separate webshop for placing orders. This webshop was not integrated with the system used to manage equipment and track inspections. As a result, a significant amount of manual work was required, increasing the risk of errors—especially with large orders. Kim explains: “To place orders, we worked with a standalone webshop. Orders would come in, and we had to manually enter them into the system to create an order.” Kees adds: “In the old system, we had to manually retype all the numbers. If, for example, you had an order with 150 items, there was always a chance that something would go wrong. With Centix, the process is now much easier.”
With Centix, the ordering process is now fully integrated. Executives and project managers place their orders directly via the Centix webshop. Once an order is received, the equipment is picked and sent to the project site. Kim highlights the benefit: “The manual work is gone, and there are no more disputes between executives and the warehouse.” Christel adds with a laugh: “If something goes wrong now, it’s probably because the executives ordered it incorrectly themselves.”
Conclusion
DDM initially adopted Centix to improve a specific part of its operations. Over time, its use expanded to multiple processes across the organisation. Kim explains: “It started with a small component, and step by step, it grew further.” And it doesn’t stop there—DDM aims to get even more out of Centix. In the future, they plan to manage invoicing through the system as well. Christel, Kees, and Kim all agree: “Centix is extremely user-friendly!”
Discover what Centix can do for your organisation
Have you become excited after reading about DDM’s experiences and are you eager to learn more? I would be happy to guide you through the possibilities Centix has to offer in a product demonstration. Depending on your requirements, I will brief you in half an hour to an hour and a half to give you a clear picture of our complete equipment management solution!
