Using the Enginius software, the BIS Group will be able to pool previously separate IT solutions for its customers, thus helping them to cut costs and optimise their processes. Accordingly, such applications as mobile maintenance, condition monitoring, statistical calculation of failure probability as well as other processes, e.g. for boosting energy efficiency, can be integrated in an all-inclusive solution. As a result, it will be possible to develop entirely new maintenance strategies together with customers in the process and consumer goods industries.
Enginius' proprietary software is a registered trademark of the same name and already very well established in the German market, where it is being used by renowned companies under licence and maintenance contracts. It is used to provide intelligent support via mobile devices such as PDAs or tablet PCs linked to SAP PM, offering management applications for coordinating maintenance activities via smart phones or desktop applications and supporting analytical systems for the automatic adjustment of the maintenance strategy.
Gerhard Schmidt, the responsible member of the BIS Group's Executive Board, sees very good potential for using the software solutions both in Germany and internationally: "Next-generation maintenance will entail the use of innovative technology for supporting traditional activities. Using the Enginius software, we will also be assembling attractive new service packages for our customers in markets such as Sweden, Norway, the UK, Austria, the Czech Republic and Poland."
Enginius is a spin-off which has been managed by Prof. Dr. Karsten Huffstadt since 2009 and, with a team of ten employees, generates annual revenues of around EUR 500,000. The former owner is confident that integration of the company within the BIS Group will ensure the continued successful development of the product range. He will continue to work with his team in an advisory capacity over an extended period of time. Says Dr. Huffstadt: "With the BIS Group, we are able to tap growth potential which we would otherwise not have as a stand-alone software company. Further development of our products calls for specialist expertise which can only be gained through close links with day-to-day maintenance business. Accordingly, membership within the BIS Group provides an ideal basis for achieving this." Enginius will be integrated as a separate profit centre within BIS Maintenance Südwest, which was one of the first users of these innovative solutions and was involved in product development at an early stage. Says managing director Franz Braun: "We are looking forward to having the new team in our organisation. They are experts in the development of proven applications in the area of mobile maintenance, underscoring our commitment to high-quality solutions."