Simplifier has given us the opportunity to create and integrate applications quickly and easily.

Ingo Tegeder

Head of Global IT & SAP at SAERTEX

30 %

fewer developer days

worth up to 40k per project

40.000 €

Budget savings per project

40 %

Accelerated roll-out time

Compatibility and mobile capability for a hybrid team

Manufacturer of high-tech textiles relies on first-class technology and partnership par excellence with Simplifier

SAERTEX was facing a number of challenges in production, including paper-based processes and a large number of different systems that could no longer be maintained and needed to be replaced as quickly as possible. There was a shortage of skilled workers, particularly in the SAP area, which made it difficult to implement applications on the one hand and the clean-core approach, which was made necessary by a paradigm shift at SAP, on the other. In addition, SAERTEX’s location in Münsterland put it at a disadvantage when it came to recruiting specialists.

Already experience with low-code

The textile specialist’s hybrid team of front-end and back-end developers had already gained experience with low-code technology. However, none of the platforms tested were convincing in terms of the mobile capability of the applications created. In addition, the requirements for simple and complete compatibility with SAP, SAP Sales Cloud and O365 were not met. These points, in addition to the desire for modern technology and optimal collaboration, were therefore decisive for SAERTEX when selecting a new low-code platform.

SAERTEX was impressed by the technical performance of Simplifier, which is demonstrated by its easy integration capability with SAP and the existing interfaces to existing systems on the store floor and top floor. The platform also offers a seamless user experience for ready-to-use applications, a well thought-out governance concept and a uniform, structured tool chain. All of this was highly regarded by SAERTEX and led to rapid acceptance of the platform.

Results achieved

The partnership-based and productive collaboration between SAERTEX and Simplifier enabled challenges such as side-by-side development to be successfully resolved. Within just two months, concepts for cybersecurity, application development and clean core were developed. All of Simplifier’s questions were answered, resulting in sustainable solutions and components such as reusable interfaces. This saves immense resources such as development effort and time and enables applications and projects to be completed more quickly. The first application based on the Simplifier platform has already been completed and is being used in a production environment. Overall, SAERTEX was able to reduce the time-to-market by an average of one third and save up to 20 project days by using Simplifier.

Simplifier’s role and access concept has made it possible to develop a suitable governance approach that ensures secure implementation and minimizes risks. Overall, Simplifier is a platform that can keep pace with the agility of medium-sized companies and enables rapid adjustments to be made when priorities change. SAERTEX is also already seeing positive economic results: With the implemented solutions, the return on investment was achieved in less than 12 months.

In addition to the technical performance, SAERTEX was also impressed by the cooperation with the Simplifier team. The Simplifier experts answered all questions reliably and provided support with information and materials for self-training. Challenges were actively solved and the team spirit was characterized by mutual appreciation. The clear assignment of Simplifier contacts and good accessibility across all hierarchical levels contributed to the successful partnership, as did the joint development of expertise in new areas such as SAP CX and qualified contacts for onboarding. The balanced cost-benefit ratio and the total cost of ownership in line with SMEs rounded off the positive image of Simplifier.

New mindset

The successful collaboration between SAERTEX and Simplifier has led to a change in thinking. When developing new applications and workflows, the focus is no longer on functions, but on processes and their optimization through digital transformation. Thanks to the efficient collaboration and the use of the Simplifier platform, complex challenges could be solved quickly and successfully. SAERTEX is absolutely delighted with the results and the partnership-based collaboration with Simplifier.

SAERTEX plans to implement further paperless processes in production through additional applications. By digitizing all production processes and eliminating production papers in the various departments and replacing them with digital applications, all important information and data relating to machines and customers will be made available digitally. A bidirectional, direct and digital connection and communication between production and administration is to be established.

In the long term, SAERTEX plans to establish the Citizen Development approach in the company. This will involve successively integrating specialist departments into the creation of applications through joint discussions based on Simplifier. The focus will be on optimizing processes through the use of digital technologies. SAERTEX is convinced that Simplifier is the ideal platform for implementing its plans and is looking forward to a continued successful collaboration.