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Customer story: Intelligent cloud solution for Optima
OPTIMA, a Swabian company specialising in special-purpose machinery construction, relies on the Hoffmann Group’s pioneering Connected Metrology measuring equipment management system and was part of the development team from the very outset.
The Optima Packaging Group, based in Schwäbisch Hall, Germany, is a real heavyweight when it comes to building filling and packaging machines, generating a turnover of more than half a billion euros annually. The company operates internationally and is a leading provider of technology solutions for precise dosing, filling and packaging and for handling challenging products in both liquid and solid form. It rises to challenges such as digitalisation and plays an active role in finding appropriate solutions. Around three years ago, Emanuel Beck (specialist Area Sales Manager at the Hoffmann Group) made a compelling offer to Optima: to partner up with Hoffmann in a pilot project to develop and install the innovative Connected Metrology measuring equipment management tool. This paved the way for Optima to switch from antiquated Excels to a revolutionary and intelligent software solution.
Close involvement in the users’ work
The project was led by Heiko Nauß and Volker König from Optima, who both work in the company’s central Optima Materials Management division. Volker König joined the company back in 2005 and is primarily responsible for quality assurance and supplier management. Heiko Nauß joined Optima in 2016 and works as a test equipment supervisor, meaning he is closely involved in the users’ work.
Full steam ahead with the pilot project
Optima’s decision to choose the Connected Metrology pilot project meant that the Hoffmann Group prevailed in a tight race, as several other companies were in the running as well, reports Volker König: “In our search for an alternative, new software system, four companies made the initial shortlist. We then whittled them down to the final two before ultimately deciding in favour of Connected Metrology from Hoffmann.” A major factor in winning over the company was undoubtedly also the fact that the two companies have already been collaborating successfully at many different levels for some time.
Simple, secure software in the cloud
From the users’ perspective, Hoffmann impressed with its cloud-based approach and the global access via the Internet and a mobile app. Another positive was the VDI 2623 interface which enables calibration certificate data to be imported. Connected Metrology is also intuitive, available around the clock, scalable, and adaptable in stages, all of which are crucial features and expected as standard alongside attributes such as cost efficiency, improved quality and error prevention. “Without these,” says Volker König, “a product like this cannot succeed on the market. However, we can certainly already say that Hoffmann’s software is clearer and easier to understand than all other comparable systems.” “What’s more,” explains Emanuel Beck, “Connected Metrology never stays still. It is constantly evolving and being improved, which happens automatically and in sync with operations.” It goes without saying that these updates are free of charge for the customer.
Digital natives are the future
These features also benefit the employees, who value easy-to-use IT applications. Heiko Nauß highlights: “We still need to provide a bit of help, so we’ll shortly also be holding a training course so that our staff can improve their skills and become more confident in using the system independently. The good thing is that if you haven’t been given write access, you also can’t delete or “break” anything – meaning everyone can try out the system for themselves.” Volker König adds: “An introductory guide to Connected Metrology would also be useful to provide a brief overview* to users who have not used the software before.”
*Connected Metrology provides a comprehensive help page for users who are getting started with the software. It is clearly linked in the menu field.
Excellent communication & cooperation pay dividends
Generally speaking, it is fair to say that the two companies are working very well with one another. Optima benefits from the fact that everything comes from a single source and that the contact partners at the Hoffmann Group are always available. In Volker König’s view, they respond quickly and explain things simply and clearly. This was particularly important in the pilot phase, when Optima had a special opportunity to play a key role in shaping Connected Metrology.
The cost factor; added value with Qesar
From a financial perspective, the costs of installing a new software program are quite manageable. However, Heiko Funk, Managing Director of Optima Materials Management, notes: “Ultimately, the costs always play a role. For us, the task of managing test equipment does not add value initially, rather it lays the foundation for ensuring that our measuring tools can be managed efficiently. To minimise the time and expense for this and gain peace of mind, we use specialist service providers and, ideally, software programs such as Connected Metrology.”
This is also where Qesar (an alliance of SMEs in the machinery construction sector that fosters industrial cooperation) and its network of quality suppliers come into play. Heiko Funk explains how it works using Hoffmann as an example: “The Hoffmann Group can be recommended by a partner in the Qesar pool for inclusion in the network. If there is interest in a collaboration, all the partners in the pool can benefit equally from the pilot project and a central agreement.”
The bottom line: two satisfied business partners
Connected Metrology has now been installed at all key Optima Group sites: its base in Schwäbisch Hall, as well as Mornshausen near Marburg and Radolfzell am Bodensee on Lake Constance, which is where the subsidiary METALL+PLASTIC GmbH is based. The software will be rolled out to other branch offices as required. Heiko Nauß is certain that Hoffmann’s software can be continuously enhanced and improved, including in the near future. The focus now is on continuing the collaboration between Optima and the Hoffmann Group and achieving further success.