Key Takeaways
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A structured Bill of Materials (BOM) is the backbone of every Sesame lift design, ensuring consistency, compliance, and clear communication across departments.
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By linking engineering, programming, and procurement data, Sesame maintains seamless traceability from concept to installation.
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Real-world process discipline helps prevent costly rework and strengthens the company’s reputation for reliability in accessibility engineering.
Introduction
What happens when a single mismatched cable specification reaches the factory floor?
With over 300 components in a typical Sesame lift, data consistency is critical. A Bill of Materials (BOM) is the complete, structured list of all mechanical, electrical, and control components used to build a lift. It defines how parts interact, when they are ordered, and how they’re tested — effectively serving as the product’s digital DNA.
This article explores how structured BOM management enhances lift design consistency, linking engineering design, PLC programming, and procurement through a single digital framework that keeps every project accurate and compliant.
Why Does Structured BOM Management Matter in Lift Design?
Each accessibility lift must combine mechanical precision with software control. Without structured BOM hierarchies, updates can become fragmented, leading to production delays or compliance risks.
Sesame Access uses clear task structures — such as “Generate Entire BOM” and “Generate PLC BOM” — nested under one master workflow. This ensures that whenever a component changes, the update flows instantly to related drawings, control systems, and purchase orders.
For example, during the Buckingham Listed Building Lift project, the team used a fully traceable BOM to accommodate a late specification change within 48 hours — avoiding rework and keeping the installation on schedule.
How Does Structured BOM Management Improve Team Collaboration?
A shared digital BOM environment allows engineers, PLC programmers, and procurement staff to work from the same data set. Task dependencies adjust automatically when parent task dates shift, improving visibility and reducing coordination errors.
When designing complex lifts such as the Knightsbridge Stair Lift or Cambridge Part M Lift, this clarity ensures that long-lead electrical parts, hydraulic assemblies, and control modules are ordered in the right sequence. for further reading on this you may wish to view our Workflow Optimisation in Accessibility Engineering Knowledge Hub article.
How Does BOM Accuracy Support Compliance and Quality?
Accurate, version-controlled BOMs simplify proof of compliance with BS 6440:2011 and the Equality Act 2010. Each component in a Sesame lift can be traced back to an approved drawing and verified supplier.
This documentation is invaluable for listed-building installations, where auditability and design justification are often required by heritage consultants and architects.
Continuous Improvement Through Digital Feedback
Sesame’s engineers continually review and refine BOM structures to remove redundancy. Recently, long-lead-item tasks were merged into master workflows to reduce duplication.
This ongoing housekeeping keeps the digital infrastructure clean and ensures every lift project benefits from the latest process improvements.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a BOM?
A Bill of Materials lists every component, sub-assembly, and control element needed to build a Sesame lift.
How does a structured BOM help design teams?
It aligns mechanical, electrical, and software workflows, enabling faster approvals and consistent documentation.
Can BOM automation prevent delays?
Yes. Automated task dependencies help teams identify schedule risks and adjust instantly when specifications change.
How does Sesame ensure quality through BOM management?
All revisions are tied to certified drawings and PLC files, ensuring the installed lift exactly matches its approved design.
Where can I learn more about Sesame’s engineering process?
Explore the full Knowledge Hub or book a Teams Meeting with our Project Managers.