Technical configurator & CPQ software
In the world of sales, whether B2B, B2C or B2B2C, efficiency and precision are key to satisfying customer needs.
Integrating a technical configurator can transform your sales process by offering customized solutions quickly and efficiently.
In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of a technical configurator or CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote), to manage technical constraints but not only…
What is a Technical Configurator? Definition
A technical configurator, also known as a product configurator, is a software tool for creating customized products according to specific customer requirements. It is particularly useful in industries where products have many variants and options.
Thanks to a product configurator, companies can offer a unique, simplified customer experience, while reducing configuration errors. Technical constraints, whether linked to a single product or to the assembly of several products, are integrated into the tool, eliminating any infeasibility.
As the icing on the cake, some CPQs are also capable of generating technical bills of materials (BOMs), which can be used directly in production or to generate pre-sales technical documents (depending on the use case).
The advantages of a 3D configurator
A 3D configurator adds a visual dimension to product configuration. By enabling customers to visualize their choices in real time, it improves customer engagement and satisfaction.
3D configurators are particularly useful in sectors where aesthetics and design play a crucial role, such as furniture, home furnishings (joinery, sun protection), automobiles and electronic or household appliances in B2C, but are also relevant in B2B, when customers require CAD-style 3D visuals or technical drawings (very often from the design office, generating bottlenecks at the same time).
CPQ & CAD software : CAD Automation
CPQ software can reconcile Sales with Technology.
In fact, some CPQ software can interface with CAD programs such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo or SketchUp.
EPICOR CPQ stands out for its ability to automate computer-aided design (CAD automation). This feature automatically generates technical drawings and 3D models based on specific product configurations, reducing the time and effort needed to produce accurate technical documents.
Similarly, READY CPQ offers an integrated interface with SketchUp, a 3D modeling software widely used in architecture and design. This integration allows users to create detailed, customized 3D models directly from the CPQ interface, enhancing the user experience and configuration accuracy.
Integrating CPQ into your pricing process
The use of a technical configurator, or CPQ, enables efficient management of product configuration, pricing and quotation generation. CPQ software, such as that offered by CONGA, EPICOR and READY, automates and optimizes these processes, reducing lead times and costs.
CPQ software ensures that every configured product is feasible and profitable, while simplifying the complexities of sales.
The role of the CPQ consultant
To maximize the benefits of integrating a technical configurator with CPQ software, the expertise of a CPQ consultant is essential.
This professional helps set up and customize the system according to the company’s specific needs, ensuring a smooth transition and optimum use of the tools.
At ITCelerator, our experts have a combined experience of over 40 years! Some of our consultants have a “3D” background, while others come from industry (business/technical expertise), giving us a high level of service, whatever the world we’re working in.
Conclusion
Adopting a technical configurator or CPQ software is a crucial step for any company wishing to improve efficiency and offer a better customer experience.
At ITCelerator, we specialize in implementing CPQ solutions tailored to your specific needs. Contact us to find out more about our services and how we can help you transform your sales process.
