FACE TO FACE
Bystronic ’ s headquarters in Niederönz , Switzerland .
Bystronic can respond in all cases . We have tools specifically developed for sheet metal , and our experienced software experts understand these needs and can advise customers . I like to say that we develop solutions from sheet metal for sheet metal .
ISMR : Why has Bystronic decided to create a software suite to address digitisation of the sheet-metal industry ?
In these environments , it is increasingly important to be able to adapt and become flexible , controlling uncertainty and risk as much as possible to ensure business feasibility . Digitalisation can help companies in this continuous adaptation process by supplying them with accurate information which they can analyse and then use to power data-driven decisions that can improve their performance .
We believe that digitisation should adapt to companies , and not the other way around . We want our customers to overcome the fear of becoming clones . For us , digitalisation must be able to maintain the unique character of each company allowing them , in each case , to make the most of that competitive advantage . That is why we have an offer for every need , taking into account the digital maturity level of a company and its real needs .
It would be pointless to implement software to turn a company into a smart factory if it is neither prepared for this nor needs these tools . We want our customers to trust us to accompany them on their digitalisation journeys . It is essential that they perceive that we understand their needs and adapt our solutions to each case . This is the only way to achieve success in the digitisation process . that met their specific needs or because they did not find someone who understood those needs and tried to fit them into a standard . They may also believe that these are processes with huge costs which require lots of resources .
AM : Bystronic is a sheet-metal technology company committed to becoming our customers ’ trusted partner . We seek to provide them with the best tools to adapt to the future . Under this premise , we are constantly looking to add new products and services to complete our offering .
Digitalisation is an unstoppable process ; we believe that it will contribute enormously to the development of the metalforming industry . That drove us to see how we could make our vision of the smart factory a reality . Today , I can proudly say that we are on the right track to move this sector in that direction without leaving anyone behind , adding all types of companies while maintaining those elements unique to each one .
Digitalisation is an unstoppable process ; we believe that it will contribute enormously to the development of the metalforming industry
ISMR : What are the main barriers for sheet metal companies , especially small and medium ones , to start the digitalisation process ?
AM : Our experience has shown us that there are small and medium-sized companies in the sector looking , or who would like , to digitalise . But they feel that , because of their size and make-up , it is not within their reach . The reasons for this are varied .
In some cases , companies have already started a digitisation process in the past but failed because they could not find tools
Bending sheet metal on the Xpert 40 press brake .