--- title: 6 Questions to Ask Before You Purchase a Spec Management Solution description: Using an out of date process for managing your specifications can cause errors for employees, inconsistent processes, and costly delays in production. image: https://info.docxellent.com/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Spreadsheets%20vs%20Electronic%20Forms.png --- OPEN [Click Here](https://docxellent.com/request-demo) To Request A Demo![Close](https://info.docxellent.com/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/close.png) - [860.887.2900](tel:8608872900) - [Help Portal](http://support.docxellent.com/) - [Blog](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) - Translate Page ![Document Management en Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)English ![Document Management en Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)English![Document Management fr Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)French![Document Management de Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)German![Document Management hi Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)Hindi![Document Management it Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)Italian![Document Management pt Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)Portuguese![Document Management ru Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)Russian![Document Management es Translations](https://info.docxellent.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Docxellent_January2018/images/blank.png?t=1532868243578&width=16&height=16&name=blank.png)Spanish Select Language Afrikaans Albanian Amharic Arabic Armenian Azerbaijani Basque Belarusian Bengali Bosnian Bulgarian Catalan Cebuano Chichewa Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Traditional) Corsican Croatian Czech Danish Dutch Esperanto Estonian Filipino Finnish French Frisian Galician Georgian German Greek Gujarati Haitian Creole Hausa Hawaiian Hebrew Hindi Hmong Hungarian Icelandic Igbo Indonesian Irish Italian Japanese Javanese Kannada Kazakh Khmer Korean Kurdish (Kurmanji) Kyrgyz Lao Latin Latvian Lithuanian Luxembourgish Macedonian Malagasy Malay Malayalam Maltese Maori Marathi Mongolian Myanmar (Burmese) Nepali Norwegian Pashto Persian Polish Portuguese Punjabi Romanian Russian Samoan Scots Gaelic Serbian Sesotho Shona Sindhi Sinhala Slovak Slovenian Somali Spanish Sundanese Swahili Swedish Tajik Tamil Telugu Thai Turkish Ukrainian Urdu Uzbek Vietnamese Welsh Xhosa Yiddish Yoruba Zulu Powered by [![Google Translate](https://www.gstatic.com/images/branding/googlelogo/1x/googlelogo_color_42x16dp.png)Translate](https://translate.google.com) - [![Facebook Logo](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/themes/docxellent-site/library/images/new/fb.jpg)](https://www.facebook.com/pages/DocXellent/1452806894967432) - [![Twitter Logo](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/themes/docxellent-site/library/images/new/tw.jpg)](https://twitter.com/DocXellent) - [![Linkedin Logo](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/themes/docxellent-site/library/images/new/in.jpg)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/mystic-management-systems-inc.?trk=company_name) [![DocXellent Document Control Management Logo](http://docxellent.com/wp-content/themes/docxellent-site/library/images/DocXellent-Logo.png)](https://docxellent.com) - [Products](https://docxellent.com/docxellent/products/) - [ENSUR](https://docxellent.com/products/ensur-document-management-system/) [![ENSUR Document Management System](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ENSUR-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/products/ensur-document-management-system/) #### [ENSUR](https://docxellent.com/products/ensur-document-management-system/) ENSUR is an easy-to-use, configurable, web-based Document Management and quality Control Software System that will dramatically help you to improve and manage the efficiency of paper based or uncontrolled electronic file based processes. - [ENSUR Lite](https://info.docxellent.com/ensur-lite) - [Document Management 101](https://docxellent.com/guide-to-document-management-101/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Document-Management-101-Navigation-Image.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/guide-to-document-management-101/) #### [Document Management 101](https://docxellent.com/guide-to-document-management-101/) Cut the Clutter, Boost Efficiency: Dive into our Document Management 101 guide and discover how taking your files digital unlocks hidden productivity, strengthens compliance, and unleashes the full potential of your workflows. - [ENSUR Cloud](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/) [![ENSUR Cloud Document Management System](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ENSUR-Cloud-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/) #### [ENSUR Cloud](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/) Whether you’re an existing customer, a company looking to make a change in your provider or implementing your first document control, packaging specification, training management or quality system, DocXellent can provide the option of on-premises or a robust, secure and proven cloud based installation. - [ENSUR Case Studies](https://docxellent.com/products/case-studies/) - [Solutions](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/) - [CAPA Solutions](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/capa-solutions/) [![Corrective Action and Preventative Action](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/CAPA-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/capa-solutions/) #### [CAPA Solutions](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/capa-solutions/) Easily collect, correlate, investigate and make informed improvements to your processes with our CAPA management software, ENSUR. - [Change Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/change-control/) [![Change Control Document Management Solution](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Change-Control-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/change-control/) #### [Change Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/change-control/) See how our document control management software, ENSUR, can automate your change control processes. - [Document Control Software](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-control-software/) [![Document Control Management Software](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Document-Control-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-control-software/) #### [Document Control Software](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-control-software/) Control your organization’s content across the globe or down the hallway with our flexible, secure, user-friendly online document control software, ENSUR. - [Version Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/version-control/) [![Version Document Control](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Version-Control--350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/version-control/) #### [Version Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/version-control/) Your document control management protocol encompasses a wide variety of processes integral to the continued flow of your business. Version control, and how it’s handled, is often a pain point for companies, especially those managing content with paper or a file share. - [Intellectual Property Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/intellectual-property-control/) [![Intellectual Property Management Deviations & Complaints](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Intellectual-Property-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/intellectual-property-control/) #### [Intellectual Property Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/intellectual-property-control/) Our document management system, ENSUR, helps you manage your critical business documents with a configurable level of security and control. - [Packaging Management System](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/packaging-management/) [![Packaging Management Specification Data](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Packaging-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/packaging-management/) #### [Packaging Management System](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/packaging-management/) See how you can easily manage packaging documents, specifications and suppliers with our comprehensive document control software, ENSUR. - [Quality Control Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/quality-management/) [![Quality Control Document Management](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Quality-Control-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/quality-management/) #### [Quality Control Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/quality-management/) Guaranteeing that your products and services meet the standards of your clients is easy with our document management and quality control software, ENSUR. - [Specification Document Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) [![ENSUR Specification Management System](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Specification-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) #### [Specification Document Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) Specification Management is easy with our document management software, ENSUR. We can even migrate legacy content seamlessly for easy access. - [Training Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/training-management/) [![Web-Based Training Management Software](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Training-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/training-management/) #### [Training Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/training-management/) We can help exceed your quality document management goals and report on employee training in seconds with our document management software, ENSUR. - [Document Migration](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-management-software-migration/) [![Document Management Software Migration](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/docxellent_docmigration.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-management-software-migration/) #### [Document Migration](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-management-software-migration/) DocXellent has helped many clients, from Fortune 500 companies to smaller firms, migrate data into our  ENSUR document control system. - [Industries](https://docxellent.com/industries/) - [Biotech](https://docxellent.com/industries/biotech-document-management/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Biotech-Menu-Image.jpg)![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Biotech-Menu-Image.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/industries/biotech-document-management/) #### [Biotech](https://docxellent.com/industries/biotech-document-management/) Biotech chaos got you down? DocXellent's ENSUR streamlines workflows, conquers compliance, and accelerates breakthroughs. Be the first to market, not the first to rework. - [Food and Beverage](https://docxellent.com/industries/food-beverage-quality-management-software/) [![Document Control Software for the Food and Beverage Industry](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Food-and-Beverage-350x210.jpg.webp)![Document Control Software for the Food and Beverage Industry](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Food-and-Beverage-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/food-beverage-quality-management-software/) #### [Food and Beverage](https://docxellent.com/industries/food-beverage-quality-management-software/) Our document management software helps companies in the food & beverage industry comply with FDA audit & SQF audit control guidelines. Contact DocXellent today! - [Laboratories](https://docxellent.com/industries/laboratories/) [![Quality Management Software Labs](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Quality-Control-Software-Labs-350x210.jpg.webp)![Quality Management Software Labs](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Quality-Control-Software-Labs-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/laboratories/) #### [Laboratories](https://docxellent.com/industries/laboratories/) Laboratory companies must control their business content in accordance with the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). See how our document control software can help. - [Medical Devices](https://docxellent.com/industries/medical-device-document-control/) [![Medical Device Document Control](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Medical-Devices-350x210.jpg.webp)![Medical Device Document Control](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Medical-Devices-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/medical-device-document-control/) #### [Medical Devices](https://docxellent.com/industries/medical-device-document-control/) Our document management software can help with your medical device compliance. Contact us today for more document control information on the medical device industry. - [Pharmaceuticals](https://docxellent.com/industries/pharma/) [![Pharmaceutical Document Control Software Application](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/medicine-350x210.jpg.webp)![Pharmaceutical Document Control Software Application](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/medicine-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/pharma/) #### [Pharmaceuticals](https://docxellent.com/industries/pharma/) Our document control software helps you easily satisfy auditor requests with a document master list for FDA & EPA compliance. Quality Document Control. - [Other](https://docxellent.com/industries/other/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Other-Industry-Webpage-Image-350x210.jpg)![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Other-Industry-Webpage-Image-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/industries/other/) #### [Other](https://docxellent.com/industries/other/) Unlock seamless document control in any industry with ENSUR. Whether you're looking to navigate regulatory requirements, ensure quality standards, or optimize your workflows, our powerful document management software is tailored to meet your specific needs. Learn more about the specific industries we cater to here. - [Services and Support](https://docxellent.com/service-support/) - [ENSUR Support](https://docxellent.com/service-support/document-control-software-support/) [![ENSUR Document Management Services and Support](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ervices-support_782208-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/service-support/document-control-software-support/) #### [ENSUR Support](https://docxellent.com/service-support/document-control-software-support/) The DocXellent support team is available twenty-four hours a day; seven days a week; three hundred sixty-five days a year. Our U.S. based team works around the clock to keep your business running. - [Resources and Information](https://docxellent.com/resources/) [![ENSUR Document Management Services and Support](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ervices-support_782208-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/resources/) #### [Resources and Information](https://docxellent.com/resources/) Need to access your industry standards and regulations? Visit our DocXellent resources page for more useful information on document control systems and regulations. - [Our Company](https://docxellent.com/company/) - [About Us](https://docxellent.com/company/about-us/) [![ENSUR Document Management System Features](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ENSUR-Features-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/company/about-us/) #### [About Us](https://docxellent.com/company/about-us/) DocXellent has been providing a trusted, web based document management system with quality control management solutions to companies from start-up businesses to the Fortune 500 since 1983. - [Meet the Team](https://docxellent.com/team/) [![DocXellent Team Photo](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Teamphoto-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/team/) #### [Meet the Team](https://docxellent.com/team/) Meet some of the team that makes DocXellent tick. Get to know the people who will be partnering with you in your success! - [Customers and Partners](https://docxellent.com/company/customers-partners/) [![Document Control Customers and Partners](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/customers-and-partners-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/company/customers-partners/) #### [Customers and Partners](https://docxellent.com/company/customers-partners/) These are the brands and organizations that have experienced the power of our document control system, ENSUR - [Blog](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) [![Document Management Software News](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/blog-and-announcements-350x210.jpg)](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) #### [Blog and Announcements](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) Stay up to date on product and industry updates and get an inside look at our company. - [Contact](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) - [Contact Us](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) #### [Contact Us](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) Contact Us to receive more information about our product and services including document management software. - [Document Control Sales](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/sales/) #### [Document Control Sales](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/sales/) We are happy to answer any questions you have about our ENSUR software and we will gladly go at your pace. - [Contact Support](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/support/) #### [Contact Support](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/support/) We are here to help. Connect with one of our experienced support team members who can get you an answer to any question you may have. - [Request a Demo](https://docxellent.com/request-demo/) #### [Request a Demo](https://docxellent.com/request-demo/) Get in touch to request a demo of our ENSUR document control management software. - [Request Demo](https://docxellent.com/request-demo/) [![DocXellent Document Management White Logo](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/themes/docxellent-site/library/images/logo-white.png)](https://docxellent.com) - Navigation - - [Products](https://docxellent.com/docxellent/products/) - [ENSUR](https://docxellent.com/products/ensur-document-management-system/) [![ENSUR Document Management System](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ENSUR-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/products/ensur-document-management-system/) #### [ENSUR](https://docxellent.com/products/ensur-document-management-system/) ENSUR is an easy-to-use, configurable, web-based Document Management and Quality Control Software System that will dramatically help you to improve and manage the efficiency of paper based or uncontrolled electronic file based processes. - [ENSUR Lite](https://info.docxellent.com/ensur-lite) - [Document Management 101](https://docxellent.com/guide-to-document-management-101/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Document-Management-101-Navigation-Image.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/guide-to-document-management-101/) #### [Document Management 101](https://docxellent.com/guide-to-document-management-101/) Cut the Clutter, Boost Efficiency: Dive into our Document Management 101 guide and discover how taking your files digital unlocks hidden productivity, strengthens compliance, and unleashes the full potential of your workflows. - [ENSUR Cloud](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/) [![ENSUR Cloud Document Management System](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ENSUR-Cloud-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/) #### [ENSUR Cloud](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/) Whether you’re an existing customer, a company looking to make a change in your provider or implementing your first document control, packaging specification, training management or quality system, DocXellent can provide the option of on-premises or a robust, secure and proven cloud based installation. - [ENSUR Case Studies](https://docxellent.com/products/case-studies/) - [Solutions](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/) - [CAPA Solutions](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/capa-solutions/) [![Corrective Action and Preventative Action](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/CAPA-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/capa-solutions/) #### [CAPA Solutions](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/capa-solutions/) Easily collect, correlate, investigate and make informed improvements to your processes with our CAPA management software, ENSUR. - [Change Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/change-control/) [![Change Control Document Management Solution](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Change-Control-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/change-control/) #### [Change Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/change-control/) See how our document control management software, ENSUR, can automate your change control processes. - [Document Control Software](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-control-software/) [![Document Control Management Software](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Document-Control-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-control-software/) #### [Document Control Software](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-control-software/) Control your organization’s content across the globe or down the hallway with our flexible, secure, user-friendly online document control software, ENSUR. - [Version Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/version-control/) [![Version Document Control](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Version-Control--350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/version-control/) #### [Version Control](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/version-control/) Your document control management protocol encompasses a wide variety of processes integral to the continued flow of your business. Version control, and how it’s handled, is often a pain point for companies, especially those managing content with paper or a file share. - [Intellectual Property Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/intellectual-property-control/) [![Intellectual Property Management Deviations & Complaints](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Intellectual-Property-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/intellectual-property-control/) #### [Intellectual Property Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/intellectual-property-control/) Our document management system, ENSUR, helps you manage your critical business documents with a configurable level of security and control. - [Packaging Management System](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/packaging-management/) [![Packaging Management Specification Data](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Packaging-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/packaging-management/) #### [Packaging Management System](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/packaging-management/) See how you can easily manage packaging documents, specifications and suppliers with our comprehensive document control software, ENSUR. - [Quality Control Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/quality-management/) [![Quality Control Document Management](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Quality-Control-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/quality-management/) #### [Quality Control Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/quality-management/) Guaranteeing that your products and services meet the standards of your clients is easy with our document management and quality control software, ENSUR. - [Specification Document Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) [![ENSUR Specification Management System](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Specification-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) #### [Specification Document Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) Specification Management is easy with our document management software, ENSUR. We can even migrate legacy content seamlessly for easy access. - [Training Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/training-management/) [![Web-Based Training Management Software](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Training-Management-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/training-management/) #### [Training Management](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/training-management/) We can help exceed your quality document management goals and report on employee training in seconds with our document management software, ENSUR. - [Document Migration](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/document-management-software-migration/) - [Industries](https://docxellent.com/industries/) - [Biotech](https://docxellent.com/industries/biotech-document-management/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Biotech-Menu-Image.jpg)![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Biotech-Menu-Image.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/industries/biotech-document-management/) #### [Biotech](https://docxellent.com/industries/biotech-document-management/) Biotech chaos got you down? DocXellent's ENSUR streamlines workflows, conquers compliance, and accelerates breakthroughs. Be the first to market, not the first to rework. - [Food and Beverage](https://docxellent.com/industries/food-beverage-quality-management-software/) [![Document Control Software for the Food and Beverage Industry](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Food-and-Beverage-350x210.jpg.webp)![Document Control Software for the Food and Beverage Industry](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Food-and-Beverage-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/food-beverage-quality-management-software/) #### [Food and Beverage](https://docxellent.com/industries/food-beverage-quality-management-software/) Our document management software helps companies in the food & beverage industry comply with FDA audit & SQF audit control guidelines. Contact DocXellent today! - [Laboratories](https://docxellent.com/industries/laboratories/) [![Quality Management Software Labs](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Quality-Control-Software-Labs-350x210.jpg.webp)![Quality Management Software Labs](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Quality-Control-Software-Labs-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/laboratories/) #### [Laboratories](https://docxellent.com/industries/laboratories/) Laboratory companies must control their business content in accordance with the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). See how our document control software can help. - [Medical Devices](https://docxellent.com/industries/medical-device-document-control/) [![Medical Device Document Control](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Medical-Devices-350x210.jpg.webp)![Medical Device Document Control](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Medical-Devices-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/medical-device-document-control/) #### [Medical Devices](https://docxellent.com/industries/medical-device-document-control/) Our document management software can help with your medical device compliance. Contact us today for more document control information on the medical device industry. - [Pharmaceuticals](https://docxellent.com/industries/pharma/) [![Pharmaceutical Document Control Software Application](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/medicine-350x210.jpg.webp)![Pharmaceutical Document Control Software Application](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/medicine-350x210.jpg.webp)](https://docxellent.com/industries/pharma/) #### [Pharmaceuticals](https://docxellent.com/industries/pharma/) Our document control software helps you easily satisfy auditor requests with a document master list for FDA & EPA compliance. Quality Document Control. - [Other](https://docxellent.com/industries/other/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Other-Industry-Webpage-Image-350x210.jpg)![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Other-Industry-Webpage-Image-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/industries/other/) #### [Other](https://docxellent.com/industries/other/) Unlock seamless document control in any industry with ENSUR. Whether you're looking to navigate regulatory requirements, ensure quality standards, or optimize your workflows, our powerful document management software is tailored to meet your specific needs. Learn more about the specific industries we cater to here. - [Services and Support](https://docxellent.com/service-support/) - [ENSUR Support](https://docxellent.com/service-support/document-control-software-support/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ervices-support_782208-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/service-support/document-control-software-support/) #### [ENSUR Support](https://docxellent.com/service-support/document-control-software-support/) The DocXellent support team is available twenty-four hours a day; seven days a week; three hundred sixty-five days a year. Our U.S. based team works around the clock to keep your business running. - [Resources and Information](https://docxellent.com/resources/) [![](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/ervices-support_782208-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/resources/) #### [Resources and Information](https://docxellent.com/resources/) Need to access your industry standards and regulations? Visit our DocXellent resources page for more useful information on document control systems and regulations. - [Our Company](https://docxellent.com/company/) - [About Us](https://docxellent.com/company/about-us/) [![ENSUR Document Management System Features](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ENSUR-Features-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/company/about-us/) #### [About Us](https://docxellent.com/company/about-us/) DocXellent has been providing a trusted, web based document management system with quality control management solutions to companies from start-up businesses to the Fortune 500 since 1983. - [Meet the Team](https://docxellent.com/team/) [![DocXellent Team Photo](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Teamphoto-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/team/) #### [Meet the Team](https://docxellent.com/team/) Meet some of the team that makes DocXellent tick. Get to know the people who will be partnering with you in your success! - [Customers and Partners](https://docxellent.com/company/customers-partners/) [![Document Control Customers and Partners](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/customers-and-partners-350x210.jpg)](https://docxellent.com/company/customers-partners/) #### [Customers and Partners](https://docxellent.com/company/customers-partners/) These are the brands and organizations that have experienced the power of our document control system, ENSUR. - [Blog and Announcements](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) [![Document Management Software News](https://docxellent.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/blog-and-announcements-350x210.jpg)](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) #### [Blog and Announcements](https://info.docxellent.com/blog) Stay up to date on product and industry updates and get an inside look at our company. - [Contact](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) - [Contact Us](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) #### [Contact Us](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) Contact Us to receive more information about our product and services including document management software. - [Document Control Sales](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/sales/) #### [Document Control Sales](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/sales/) We are happy to answer any questions you have about our ENSUR software and we will gladly go at your pace. - [Contact Support](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/support/) #### [Contact Support](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/support/) We are here to help. Connect with one of our experienced support team members who can get you an answer to any question you may have. - [Request a Demo](https://docxellent.com/request-demo/) #### [Request a Demo](https://docxellent.com/request-demo/) Get in touch to request a demo of our ENSUR document control management software. - [Request Demo](https://docxellent.com/request-demo/) # 6 Questions to Ask Before You Purchase a Spec Management Solution May 18, 2020 ![Six Questions to Ask Before You Purchase a Spec Management Solution](https://info.docxellent.com/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Spreadsheets%20vs%20Electronic%20Forms.png) Using an out of date process for managing your specifications can cause errors and rework for employees, inconsistent processes across different departments, and costly delays in production. A disorganized spec management process can also have a major impact on highly regulated companies who must comply with government regulations, resulting in legal ramifications, sanctions and fines. However, deciding which Specification Management System and vendor are right for your company can be difficult. To help you to narrow the playing field and find your perfect solution, we have compiled six questions to ask your selected vendors. 1. **How are document workflows set up and organized?** The way your [document workflow](https://docxellent.com/paperless-document-management-software/) is organized within your specification management system is just as important as the ability to set up a workflow in the first place. A well-designed system will automatically tie revisions to individual specifications to their parent specification (i.e. a revised component will automatically be related to its parent BOMs). It will also give you the ability to set default routing for review and approval and default distributions for when a specification becomes effective. These features keep your document workflow working as efficiently as possible and help you keep your spec management process organized. If the software you are looking at does not host these capabilities, it is best to keep researching. 1. **Does it employ a document hierarchy with various rules for versioning BOMs and component specs?** When you begin using a specification management system, it is very important for your organization to understand the purpose of each type of document, and their application in the documentation hierarchy. There are different types of documents that help make a company run smoothly. Spec hierarchy can include [Packaging Specifications](https://info.docxellent.com/blog/basic-functions-packaging) (SKUs) which include the Bill of Materials (BOM), printed components, component (common specs), masters, materials and even the related content such as procedures, work instructions, test methods, and drawings. This means that your specification management system must have the ability to employ whichever type of document hierarchy your company chooses to use. A well organized and defined hierarchy supports the distribution, maintenance and understanding of your individual documentation, keeping your processes as efficient and straight forward as possible. 1. **Does it use structured data?** Structured data refers to any data that resides in a fixed field within a record or file. This includes information contained in relational databases and spreadsheets. Data of this type within your specification management system allows for controlled, approved values; things like dropdown lists, checkbox lists, text, calendar, formulas, English/metric converters, grids, required fields, and character limits. You know best what materials your company uses and what units of measurement are acceptable. If your employees can make any type of data entry into these documents, your information will be far from uniform. When data that does not match up, usage of the spec can be extremely confusing once it begins being utilize on the manufacturing floor. Ensuring that your spec management system employs the use of structured data in terms of what exactly can be written and placed within the document make the specification process much smoother once this data makes it down the workflow pipeline within your company. 1. **Can you edit your own templates, or can only the vendor do that?** A lot of [spec management software](https://docxellent.com/document-control-solutions/specification-management/) providers do not allow their customers to create or edit custom templates within their systems. This restricts what you can do with the software and how you handle your own data. Through the use of custom template design, there is no limit to the types of data structure your company can upload into your specification management system. And, this makes the document importing process easy, because you can dictate the way your templates are designed and the format in which your data is imported. So, if a vendor does not offer template editing, their software is probably not the best specification management option for your company.  1. **Does it have a Vendor/Supplier Portal?** [Distribution of specification](https://info.docxellent.com/blog/covid-19-avoid-supply-chain-disruption), BOMs and their related content (artwork, technical drawings, die lines, work instructions, etc.) to Contract Manufacturers (CMs) or even in-house global packaging sites is a critical part of the specification management process. Ensuring that CMs have the latest version of a specification is critical to a business, and if this process is done poorly there could be an expensive manufacturing waste cost, and potentially even expose a product manufacturer to legal issues.  Therefore, a good [specification management software](https://info.docxellent.com/blog/lotus-notes-migrated-to-advanced-document-management-system) should include automated methods to deliver the latest version to CMs through the use of a vendor/supplier portal. These portals are platforms that allow businesses to connect and collaborate with their third-party suppliers through the internet. Suppliers can use the portal as a means to keep track of their business relationship, locate the latest version of specification and its references (drawings, work instructions, etc.), and even be part of the approval workflow. While the company operating the portal can track the same data across multiple suppliers and identify which supplier is utilized for creating which components in a matter of seconds. Without a supplier portal, collaboration is error-prone and inefficient. 1. **Is it compliant?** The last question you should ask your specification management vendor before deciding on a solution is whether their software is compliant - and if it is compliant - exactly which government regulations it satisfies. Depending on your industry and company processes, you have specific compliance standards to adhere to, and if a solution does not meet every requirement your business may fall into legal trouble. Does it comply with [US FDA 21 CFR Part 11](https://docxellent.com/compliance/fda-21-cfr-part-11/), US Fair Packaging Labeling Act, or Canada Consumer Product & Labelling Act? What about the Canada Cannabis Act, EU CELEX, or Germany VerpackG? Is the system available validated, both on-premises and in a [GxP compliant cloud](https://docxellent.com/products/ensurcloud/)? Attempting to comply with these regulations with a spec management system that does not meet each of them can put you at risk for legal ramifications, sanctions or fines. Therefore, ensuring that you choose a solution that fits every compliance standard that your company is expected to meet is very important. So, if you are looking for a [spec management software](https://info.docxellent.com/blog/specification-management-workflow) that satisfies all six of the questions we discussed in this article, [contact DocXellent](https://docxellent.com/company/contact-us/) today. We are happy to advise you on how you can accomplish your goals and demonstrate how our specification management application can maximize your company’s efficiency. 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