BlackBelt Fusion

Pros

Right away, the simple and clean SQL Server architecture stood out especially for collecting all kinds of automated test measurement data. We don't use IntraStage to bring together other manufacturing systems like ERP, PLM or MES so I can't really speak to that side of the product. There are plenty of capable tools out there that already handle those areas well anyway. Where IntraStage really delivers is test measurement data collection and it does that better than other products I've worked with. Another big advantage is that the database and data model aren't hidden from users. That gives us the freedom to use the data gathered by BlackBelt in the ways that make the most sense for our organization, without getting hit with unexpected vendor development charges. Like any SQL Server-based application, having a strong DBA behind it matters if you want the best performance. That's not really a positive or negative, just something important to keep in mind if your organization doesn't already have that skill set in-house. On top of that, the vendor's support has been excellent and consistently dedicated. They keep working closely with customers like us to improve the product and that kind of partnership is something I value highly.

Cons

One thing that cuts both ways is BlackBelt's extreme flexibility. It's definitely one of its strengths but at times it feels like the vendor is a little too willing to chase every manufacturing-data-related request. In my opinion, they'd be better off staying centered on what seems to be their strongest area which is test measurement data. The other possible concern is the size of the company. They seem to be a relatively small team and while they're clearly putting in the effort to support large-scale deployments across multiple sites for bigger organizations, I'm not completely convinced they've fully reached that point yet. I do think they'll get there but I'm not sure they're quite there today.

Pros

Right out of the box, the software comes with a well-developed set of tools for extracting, translating and storing test results data in a flexible data model. The built-in reporting handles the usual manufacturing and test KPIs well and also includes strong SPC functionality. Its native data model supports most standard test data variables, while still giving users a way to bring in customer-specific data when needed. On top of that, the open platform architecture makes it possible to customize the product around specific user requirements.

Cons

Although the included test adapters support standard result file formats, we still had to deal with several specialized formats that needed custom development. The reporting options also feel split between older legacy reports and the newer, more interactive Power BI-based reports. While the older static and paginated reports are still functional, they do not compare as well to the newer reporting experience. From what I understand, development is ongoing to move more reports over to the newer format.

Pros

After rollout, the system covered our immediate needs for internal supportability and DVT/SVT visibility while staying within budget. We saw about a 70% drop in the engineering hours spent putting together weekly DVT and SVT reports. That freed up our R&D team to spend more of their limited time on product design and other value-added work instead of compiling and distributing reports. Because the IntraStage CSV format is well documented, we've been able to support the data output from our equipment internally. We were also able to modify and refresh reports and analytics without having to rely on database or software specialists. With automated reporting in place, we can provide customers with on-demand audits without travel or face-to-face meetings which became especially important during COVID.

Cons

At deployment, the custom reports were not available as off-the-shelf options so there was some upfront development time and effort involved. On the plus side, that process gave us reports that were specifically tailored to our requirements.