Handelsblatt: Rothbaum in the Smart Factory special edition

More than technology: How processes, systems and people are becoming a smart factory

Why do manufacturing companies often fail on the road to the smart factory?

A typical stumbling block is that investments in automation and new IT systems are made too selectively. Those who focus solely on technical solutions without considering the interlinking of processes, systems and data flows are taking a big risk. Management is often unaware of the actual benefits of the smart factory, making it difficult to justify the expense without a clear business value. It is crucial to understand the factory as an overall system, integrate employees and clearly define interfaces. Otherwise, digitalization will remain piecemeal.

What role do MES and ERP systems play in a successful smart factory?

ERP and MES form the central bridge between the store floor and business processes. These are supplemented by other systems such as machine data acquisition, warehouse management systems and IIoT platforms. Grown structures and isolated solutions with large amounts of data have increased complexity in recent years. The great added value comes from the seamless integration of all data sources: It creates end-to-end transparency, greater efficiency and lower costs. This also makes business value tangible. We support companies on their way to well-founded management decisions and sustainable competitiveness.

What is more important: technology or processes – and what does this look like in practice?

Both play a central role: technology only works if processes are thought through end-to-end, clearly defined and can be mapped digitally. The basis is formed by stable and harmonized processes, supplemented by the right IT landscape. A lean philosophy as a basis helps to avoid unnecessary complexity, but should always fit the respective organization. The smart factory is a means to an end in order to reduce costs and increase quality and flexibility – in other words, to create real business value.