Why quoted against actual matters
In a machine shop, the quote is only as good as the setup and cycle times behind it. If a part always takes 20% longer than quoted, every repeat order loses money, and nobody notices because the job still gets done.
This log separates setup from run time, because they go wrong for different reasons: setups overrun with new fixtures, first-offs and missing tooling, while cycle times drift with tool wear, material and programs that were never optimised.
Using the numbers
- Re-quote repeat work from the suggested cycle time, which is your logged average rounded up.
- Look at setups over the quote: a fixture or a setup sheet often saves more than a faster cycle.
- Watch jobs that are faster than quoted: you may be pricing yourself out of work you’re good at.
When the spreadsheet stops being enough
Mannin Systems does all of this as part of the day’s work: booked at the station as it happens, checked automatically, and linked to the jobs, stock and people involved. No retyping, and no Friday afternoon catching up.
