OEMs: Blockers and Breakthroughs

Send a textWelcome to Season 2 of OEMs: Blockers and Breakthroughs! In this opening episode, Sam Burgess, CEO of Partful, and Rob Butler, Head of Sales, discuss the key trends shaping manufacturing aftersales in 2025. From predictive maintenance and the rise of the digital thread to improving customer experience, they discuss what OEMs should expect in 2025, and how Partful is helping to facilitate that change into a new digital era. Listen along for an exciting new season with insights from industry events, and reflections on standout guests from Season 1.  Want to know what's next for the manufacturing industry and Partful? Let Rob and Sam walk you through their journey to date and what they've learned from OEMs striving for bigger and better things in 2025. Tune in to start the year with the right attitude towards aftersales.

Send a textIn this episode, we’re joined by Tony Byrne, an aftersales specialist and leader in the automotive industry. With experience at Synergy, Lotus Cars, and now as the Owner of AutoInsight Solutions, Tony brings invaluable insights into the world of automotive aftersales.We explore OEMs' biggest mistakes when managing aftersales and dealer networks, uncovering the pitfalls that harm efficiency, parts identification, and customer satisfaction. Tony shares his dos and don’ts for building effective aftersales systems, including lessons from his time transforming processes at Lotus.We also discuss how 3D parts catalogs and interactive technology are reshaping the way OEMs approach aftersales, helping them improve accuracy and streamline processes. Tune in for some valuable insights for OEMs looking to adopt these innovations and stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

Send a textOur new platform is here! Partful 2.0 is our latest platform iteration, set to transform how OEMs create, manage, and update their parts catalogs. Partful 2.0 enables OEMs to streamline their aftersales processes by leveraging existing CAD and BoM data for fully automated 3D content generation. Say goodbye to siloed 2D PDFs and outdated documentation, this revolutionary tool allows OEM teams to have a live EPC in hours, not weeks.Joining us in this episode are Partful’s automation experts, Kristian Epps and Rami Elakkad, who explain how Partful’s technology works behind the scenes.We discuss how this shift to automation technology will save significant time for technical documentation teams, enable real-time collaboration with engineering, and support aftersales efforts with continuous product data updates. Tune in to learn how Partful 2.0 bridges the gap between engineering and aftersales, offering OEMs the tools they need to deliver faster, smarter, and more efficient aftersales support.Sign up for early access to the BETA program and join us as we explore the future of automated 3D content creation with cutting-edge technology. 

Send a textIn this episode, we look at the critical role that Bill of Materials (BoM) management plays in the success of OEM businesses. With insights from Carl Kenyon, a manufacturing industry expert, and Clare Cormican, a product manager at Partful and a SaaS solutions wizard, we explore companies' common mistakes in creating and managing BoMs. Listen along as we discuss the practical challenges OEMs face, the impact of poor BoM practices, and share real-life examples of business consequences. Discover how improved BoM processes can increase efficiency and lead to long-term success for OEMs. Head to Partful 2.0 to learn more about our 3D parts catalog solution to aid with the common problems that stem from managing BoMs in the manufacturing industry. 

Send a textIn this episode, we explore how Kolpak is revolutionizing customer experience by enhancing aftersales knowledge and streamlining access to parts data. Hear from Jay Maiden, Director of Service at Kolpak, about his comprehensive training programs, including Kolpak University, and the implementation of a cutting-edge 3D parts catalog. Discover how these innovations are helping Kolpak maintain its leadership in the walk-in refrigerator market and providing customers with superior service. Jay also shares insights on their collaboration with Partful and offers key tips for OEMs to improve aftersales customer experience. Join us for valuable insights on transforming aftersales services to keep customers satisfied and loyal.

Send a textEngineering and manufacturing aftersales services often suffer from disconnection and silos, hindering effective collaboration and data sharing. In this episode, we explore the reasons behind this fragmentation and discuss how real-time data updates through App-to-App integration can break down these barriers. Hosting this insightful discussion is Tanya Tran, Head of Marketing at Partful, and Sam Burgess, CEO of Partful. We are also thrilled to have Jos Voskuil, also known as the Virtual Dutchman from his blog www.virtualdutchman.com. With over 20 years of experience in the world of PDM and PLM, Jos has a unique role interfacing between all stakeholders involved in a PLM engagement: management, project team members, end-users, vendors, and implementers. Tune in as we share expertise and insights on setting up seamless integration for improved collaboration and data accuracy.

Send a textIn this episode, we explore how Triangle Tube revolutionized its aftersales service to boost customer satisfaction. Discover the game-changing impact of 3D interactive technology on customer and dealer experiences.Join our hosts, Tanya Tran and Sam Burgess as they discuss the vital collaboration between engineering and commercial teams within OEMs globally. Get the A to Z from Triangle Tube as they discuss why they chose Partful and the process of creating a 3D parts locator/parts catalog - as well as some useful tips for anyone thinking of adopting a 3D parts catalog in the future. Learn how exceptional aftersales service can transform your business and keep you ahead of the competition! 

Send a textIn this episode, we're exploring the world of digital threads and their pivotal role for small and mid-sized OEMs.Jos Voskuil, a renowned PLM expert and coach joins us in this episode to shed light on the importance of a connected digital thread to navigating the challenges of sustainability and supportability. Joss offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of digitalization within the OEM community.Alongside Jos, Sam Burgess, founder and CEO of Partful, provides a user-centric perspective, shedding light on the practical implications of the digital thread for field operations and service support. With your host, Tanya Tran, they unravel key questions surrounding the digital thread, from its definition to its implementation strategies tailored specifically for small and mid-sized OEMs.Whether you're an industry professional or a curious listener, this episode promises to deliver actionable insights and thought-provoking discussions on the forefront of digital innovation.Resources mentioned: Through Jos' blog, which addresses mostly the human side of PLM and through his lectures Jos connects people, business, and PLM practices.Visit the blog  - www.virtualdutchman.com Jos' LinkedIn- www.linkedin.com/in/tacit/ 

Send a textWhy does supportability cost so much for OEMs? In this episode, reunited colleagues, Sam Burgess and Carl Kenyon discuss the challenges OEMs face, drawing from their experience in the specialist vehicles manufacturing sector.Join us as we explore the pains of managing manpower costs, grappling with data quality control amidst numerous changes, and the frustration of inaccessible parts data for end users. But fear not, solutions are on the horizon. Discover how automation and advanced tools can streamline processes, how integration can revolutionize change management, and the crucial role of an aftersales digital thread. Tune in for expert insights and actionable strategies to transform your aftersales operations.

Send a textIn this episode, join hosts Tanya Tran and Sam Burgess as they dissect the persistent headache of parts data for OEM teams worldwide. Delving into the root causes of data inconsistencies and engineering and aftersales team challenges, they shed light on the legacy processes and cultural barriers that have perpetuated this issue for decades.With a focus on bridging the gap between engineering and aftersales functions, the discussion introduces the concept of an aftersales digital thread as a transformative solution. Explore the tangible benefits of implementing such a thread, from cost savings to enhanced service levels. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation surrounding the aftersales digital thread! 

Send a textIn this episode, we delve into the world of manufacturing aftersales, exposing the detrimental impact of outdated technologies and processes on OEMs' growth. We welcome two new guests to the show from Quotebeam: CEO Roman Piszcz and Head of Partnerships, Nikki Gonzales.Join them as they unravel the challenges and present groundbreaking solutions in automation, automotive, machinery, and more.Mentioned in this episode:To listen to Nikki and Ali's podcast, Automation Ladies - head to automationladies.ioSave time searching for competitively priced automation parts. Search, find, and get the parts you need shipped to keep your projects on track, with Quotebeam. With Partful, digitise your after-sales processes and let your dealers, customers and end-users identify and buy parts hassle-free. No more Excel sheets, 2D outdated drawings, emails and back-and-forth calls. 

Send a textJoin the chat with our data guru—Parris Hall alongside your hosts, Sam Burgess, and Tanya Tran, as they unravel the quirks and challenges in the world of aftersales and data management. In this episode, we uncover the struggles and solutions in this critical domain.We welcome Partful’s Head of Customer Success, Parris Hall, a seasoned professional immersed in aftersales data. Parris shares her insights into the types of data prevalent in OEM after-sales and the challenges posed by outdated processes.The conversation delves into common data management practices, exploring formats and how aftersales teams handle information. Parris and Sam detail the issues arising from these practices and dissect the disconnect between engineering and aftersales.Crucially, the episode offers actionable insights for OEMs seeking to revamp their data management strategies. Tune in now to revolutionize your approach and stay ahead in the OEM landscape!Resources mentioned: Blog postPariss' LinkedIn 

Send a textWe're spilling the beans on the OEMs biggest secrets and how they're shaping the after sales experience. Join us as we dive deep into topics like the importance of nailing down parts identification. You'll hear stories that range from hilarious shoe mix-ups to power outages in South Sudan. These real-life examples show just how vital it is for OEMs to get it right!Plus, we'll tackle the nitty-gritty, like order fulfilment rates and the invaluable role of technology. Learn why parts misidentification can cost companies millions and leave you feeling frustrated.It's not just about products; it's about the experiences users have with OEMs. Discover why a smooth after sales journey is the key to keeping customers and brands happy. 

Send a textThis is our first episode. How exciting!We’ll talk about the overall industry challenges and how Partful came to be, alongside our valued investors Mark Robinson from Par Equity and Stanton Green from Blumberg Capital. Together, we tackle the persistent challenges faced by OEMs, their blockers to revenue, and the need for digital transformation. Sam shares his tips for securing early funding, while Mark and Stanton provide valuable investor perspectives.Discover our vision for the coming years, and get the key takeaways on OEM challenges and our mission to revolutionise after sales, by utilising data with interactive 3D technology. Join us for an insightful journey into manufacturing's future.