What does AI do in detailed planning software?
"AI-powered detailed production planning, as opposed to rule-based detailed production planning, is much more flexible to use. In other words, we don't have to force ourselves into a rigid rule construct and somehow squeeze production into it or perhaps even adapt, but it's the other way around. The solution learns how production is structured. For example, are test orders always made at six in the morning or should nothing be started before the break? These are all things that do not have to be entered explicitly, but are processed directly by the AI.
And the next step, which we are currently working on, is for the AI to also proactively recommend actions, such as maintenance that is actually planned for the day after tomorrow. Wouldn't we rather do that tomorrow? Because that will make much more sense. Or perhaps a delivery date that is actually planned two weeks later? You can now bring it forward a week, which of course opens up completely new possibilities in sales."
What advantages does AI offer your customers?
"Our customers who use our solutions can reduce their throughput times, which means they can process their orders much faster and therefore deliver more quickly. They have better adherence to delivery dates, which in turn gives them an advantage in sales because they are a reliable partner for their customers. If you say we will deliver our product on Thursday, then it will be delivered. There are no uncertainties. At the same time, there is better capacity utilization. This means you can produce more with the existing machinery and existing staff, no new investment is necessary and this can also save costs."
How enriching is the Productivity Symposium for you?
"So the first thing I definitely take away is the atmosphere. For me, it's always great to see what happens, to get to know our customers at the market. Of course, having interesting conversations and also understanding a little bit. What topics are relevant at the moment? Because they simply change when the market changes. We notice that our solution is well received and I can tell that from the conversations I have. I notice that the added value we bring is also well received. And in particular, I also enjoy exchanging ideas with the other exhibitors so that we can learn a bit from each other. How is the market developing at the moment? What challenges are there and how can we overcome them together?"
