In many organisations, employees still rely on Excel sheets and manual lists for quality and batch data. They often know where information should be stored, but not whether it is complete or reliable. With increasingly strict regulations, that dependency becomes a growing risk.
We address three key questions:
- How do you design traceability and recall processes that are demonstrably compliant, especially in organisations with multiple teams and systems?
- How can a Mendix solution integrate with existing ERP and core systems without disrupting them?
- What does a digital traceability and recall solution look like in practice? Discover the results below.
Designing compliant traceability and recall processes
In many organisations, traceability and quality data are still processed largely manually. Batch information is maintained in spreadsheets, checks are ticked off on paper, and status overviews are compiled afterwards.
According to research by the Manufacturing Leadership Council (MLC), approximately 70% of manufacturers still record production data manually. Spreadsheets play a significant role in analysis and reporting. This creates risks to consistent, reliable recall processes.
Being compliant means meeting regulatory requirements for traceability and recalls. It is not only about knowing where products are located, but also about documenting and tracking the entire recall process.
Excel and manual registrations provide insufficient control. Version management, access rights, and data consistency are difficult to manage, especially when multiple departments or supply chain partners are involved. This increases the risk of errors, delays, and uncertainty at the very moment when there is no room for doubt.
At the same time, these processes must fit within an existing IT landscape. Organisations often face a difficult trade-off: the need to make recalls demonstrably compliant versus the reality of business-critical ERP, MES, and other core systems.
Integration with ERP and supply chain systems
The product data required for traceability and recalls is often already stored in ERP, MES, and other core systems. The issue is not a lack of data, but the absence of cohesion, visibility, and process control.
Recalls can originate at various points in the supply chain, at suppliers, in distribution centres, or on the shop floor.
In international organisations, complexity increases further. Central teams must share information quickly and consistently with regional locations and sometimes thousands of stores. During a recall, time is critical, and communication must be consistent.
For a large retail organisation, LINKIT developed a central digital application that supports traceability and recall processes on top of existing systems. The application aligns with the daily workflows of stores and central teams and actsas a process and communication layer where relevant data from ERP and other supply chain systems converge.
As a result, complex product recall processes in stores are now fully under control. The application is currently used in multiple countries. According to a Solution Consultant at the organisation:
“The solution is integrated with tools such as Teams, SMS, and the internal store portal, ensuring recall messages reach employees where they already work.”
Through integrations and APIs, the application consolidates relevant data into one clear interface. Within this layer, teams configure workflows, validations, and user interfaces tailored specifically to recall management, while core systems continue to fulfil their original roles.
This approach keeps core systems intact while enabling centralised, digital traceability and recall management. The application was developed using the low-code platform Mendix, allowing changes to be implemented quickly without lengthy development cycles.
Results of digital traceability and recall management
This approach delivers speed, visibility, and consistent communication during recalls.
The application provides real-time insight into inventory and batch data of recalled products. Teams can instantly see where products are located, how many units remain in stock, and which actions are required. Communication is integrated with existing channels such as internal collaboration tools, messaging systems, and store portals.
“With this application, we save significant time processing recall information.”
By digitally supporting these processes, recall information is processed faster and communicated more consistently. Teams gain quicker visibility and reduce operational pressure at moments when speed is critical.
At the same time, transparency increases, supporting better decision-making and clearer external communication with customers or regulatory authorities.
What can a digital traceability and recall approach deliver for your organisation?
Do you recognise these challenges within your organisation? Schedule a no-obligation session and connect with one of our experts.
