Freeing Engineering Capacity & Scaling NPI for a Global Data Center Leader
Client Background
A global hyperscale data center operator, responsible for manufacturing server racks, trays, and PCBs that power cloud infrastructure worldwide, engaged Akraya to manage NPI (new product introduction) BOM structuring.
Challenges Faced
This section outlines the core difficulties and pain points the client was experiencing. It provides context on the hurdles that needed to be overcome before achieving the successful outcome.
Engineering Overload on PLM Updates
Engineers were spending valuable time manually updating BOMs and change orders in Agile PLM, diverting focus from core design work.
No Standardized Production Readiness Checks
Before Akraya’s involvement, there were no formal BOM reviews, production readiness assessments, or rack factory setup processes.
Limited Training and Knowledge Transfer
As the NPI project scaled, new hires lacked structured training on G-team standards and BOM verification.
Akraya’s Strategic Solution
Akraya provided a comprehensive managed service to own BOM structuring, production readiness, and team training -
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End-to-End BOM Structuring and Change Order Management
Akraya took full ownership of creating and updating BOMs for trays, racks, and PCBAs in Agile PLM.
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Production Readiness and Rack Factory Setup
We introduced formal BOM reviews, production readiness checks, and rack factory setup processes that did not exist before.
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Structured Training and AI-Augmented Documentation
Akraya established a repeatable training program for new hires using real BOM review examples walked through end-to-end.
Measurable Outcomes
Operational
Engineers no longer perform manual BOM updates; they submit requests, and Akraya executes all PLM changes.
Financial
$13.2M annualized engineering capacity reclaimed by offloading BOM structuring and change order management from engineering to Akraya’s dedicated team.
Business
Standardized BOM review and production readiness workflows can be reused for any new data center hardware program.
Conclusion
Akraya transformed NPI BOM management for a hyperscale data center operator by taking full ownership of Agile PLM updates, establishing production readiness checks, and training new team members.
