Mr. Seitz, what was the motivation for the new concept area?

Sebastian Seitz: Software is only ever one part of the overall solution. It is only one building block in the overall process. However, in terms of a digitalization strategy, companies today need integrated processes. Eplan Software & Service has the conceptual expertise to make appropriate digitalization proposals to its customers. In doing so, we look at the systems - and more importantly: the connections between the systems. Because this is where the great potential lies. We rely on our experience and recommend solutions that already have best-practice status. Trade fair visitors benefit from solutions that have been successfully tested and do not end up in a dead end later on.

Who are you addressing with process consulting?

Sebastian Seitz : We prefer to address management. Our experience shows that the management or IT management of companies increasingly want to get an overall picture of the process landscape. We also have a particular focus on smaller or medium-sized companies. This is because they rarely bring traditional management consultants on board, preferring a solution provider like us who has the relevant practical expertise.

What is the level of digitalization in companies?

Sebastian Seitz : To be honest, there is still a lot to do: There is a huge gap between the current possibilities and their implementation. In mechanical engineering, for example, we still often encounter departmental thinking that needs to be overcome in terms of a digitalization strategy.

How do consultants approach process lighting?

Sebastian Seitz : Our consultants work out the current situation together with the customer in the form of a 'big picture'. Here, the team considers, draws and puts initial ideas on paper. In consultation with the users, we first determine the maturity level of the systems' communication - for example, manual, digital or integrated. In doing so, we take the company's objectives into account, as these determine our specific solution scenarios. We then make initial recommendations that can sustainably improve automation technology processes - based on our open software systems and the corresponding standard interfaces. Our focus is on engineering with a view to the entire order process - from pre-planning and engineering through to production.

What information about your company do visitors need to take with them to the stand?

Sebastian Seitz : The basis for clarifying the current situation is the IT landscape. On this basis, we not only describe the engineering systems, but also take a conceptual look at the processes in ERP, PDM/PLM and production. Visitors to the new concept area at the trade fair should of course know their company's objectives. Based on the identified process quality, we can point out initial opportunities. After the trade fair, there will be a follow-up in which we provide the results and are then, of course, open to further elaboration of the solution approaches.