With the solution from MES/MOM provider iTAC, Fideltronik now uses a central platform for production monitoring and analysis in its electronics manufacturing. It consolidates machine and process data from the entire manufacturing environment and displays it in customizable dashboards. In addition to continuous monitoring, the system also enables historical analyses at the machine, line, and factory levels. This provides managers with a reliable foundation for identifying correlations, tracking trends, and making informed decisions. 

Unified monitoring across standard and custom equipment 

At Fideltronik, the iTAC.Asset.Analyzer is used across the entire EMS production process. In addition to SMT lines, non-standard equipment such as coating and testing stations are also integrated. This creates a unified monitoring foundation across all equipment types – a key prerequisite for establishing end-to-end transparency and systematically unlocking optimization potential. 

A key advantage lies in the flexible integration of a wide variety of equipment. Machines can be integrated with minimal effort, regardless of manufacturer or standardization, even in the case of heterogeneous or older equipment. At the same time, system performance remains stable even as the number of connected assets grows, allowing the solution to scale seamlessly across more than 25 production lines. 

Integration into existing system landscapes 

Integration with the existing IT landscape was also efficiently implemented. The Oracle ERP system was connected via existing standards, keeping additional development effort to a minimum. At the same time, the monitoring and analysis functions were specifically separated from the ERP and MES environments and bundled into the specialized platform. This reduces complexity, relieves the load on existing systems, and creates a clearly structured foundation for the evaluation of production data. 

Phased rollout with rapid commissioning 

The implementation took place in clearly defined phases along the production processes. First, the iTAC.Asset.Analyzer was implemented in the SMT area, followed by special processes such as paint shops and other production segments. This approach made it possible to transfer experience from each phase directly to the next stages of expansion. 

Due to the low hardware requirements, no extensive infrastructure measures were necessary, allowing the solution to be put into productive use quickly. 

Faster responses, fewer downtimes, better processes 

With the real-time transparency gained, Fideltronik has significantly improved its operational control capabilities. Malfunctions and deviations become immediately visible, shortening response times and allowing unplanned downtime to be resolved more quickly. 

At the same time, continuous monitoring enables bottlenecks and weak points to be systematically identified. Processes can be standardized across all lines and specifically improved. This has a direct impact on production output, including through reduced cycle times and more stable operations. 

“For us as an EMS service provider, real-time transparency is crucial. Since introducing the iTAC.Asset.Analyzer, we have achieved a level of control over the status of our manufacturing that was previously impossible. We were particularly impressed by how quickly equipment can be connected – even non-standardized stations such as test or painting systems,” explains Marcin Wnęk, COO of Fideltronik. 

Fideltronik plans to further expand the use of the iTAC.Asset.Analyzer, connect additional production areas, and deepen integration with existing systems. “Fideltronik demonstrates how production monitoring can be consistently implemented in real time even in complex, heterogeneous manufacturing environments – across multiple lines and without costly infrastructure projects. The company is thus creating conditions to react more quickly to changes and continuously improve its production,” says Martin Heinz, CEO of iTAC Software AG.

Transparency across machines, processes, and performance 

At the trade fair, iTAC will demonstrate how production data can be evaluated in real time and used to make informed decisions. The iTAC.Asset.Analyzer plays a central role in this, bringing together and analyzing machine and process data from the entire manufacturing environment. 

The solution enables real-time and historical analyses at the machine, line, and factory levels. This gives managers a comprehensive overview of the status and performance development of production. Deviations or quality problems can be identified early on and analyzed in a targeted manner. 

AI-supported algorithms assist in the evaluation of large amounts of data and automatically identify anomalies in production processes. The results are visualized in clear dashboards, creating a transparent basis for data-driven decisions.

A particular advantage is the flexible integration of a wide variety of systems. Machines can be quickly connected regardless of manufacturer or standardization – even older or heterogeneous systems. This creates a holistic picture of the entire manufacturing environment – without long integration projects or additional cloud infrastructures. 

Successfully deployed at electronics manufacturer Fideltronik 

The use of iTAC.Asset.Analyzer at electronics manufacturer Fideltronik shows how companies can benefit from this transparency. The company uses iTAC.Asset.Analyzer to consolidate production data from various systems and better analyze the performance of its manufacturing operations. 

"For us as an EMS service provider, real-time transparency is crucial. Since introducing iTAC.Asset.Analyzer, we have achieved a level of control over the status of our production that was previously impossible. We were particularly impressed by how quickly systems can be connected – even non-standard stations such as test or painting systems," explains Marcin Wnęk, COO of Fideltronik. 

Individually configurable dashboards help the company standardize processes, improve cycle times, and reduce unplanned downtime. 

AI-supported access to production and experience knowledge 

In addition to data analysis, structured access to production knowledge is also becoming increasingly important. With iTAC.CATi (Context Agent for Technical Insight), iTAC presents an AI-supported platform that links documentation, instructions, and, in the future, production data. 

The chatbot provides this knowledge directly in production and in real time. Employees can ask questions in natural language and receive precise, context-related answers based on existing information. 

"Many companies have production knowledge, but it is not always available in a centralized location. With CATi, we bring it directly to the shop floor. We provide a shared knowledge context from which employees can immediately derive answers and recommendations for action," explains Andreas Zerfas , VP Product Management at iTAC Software AG. "Our approach stands out from many others in that we combine production data and knowledge sources to form a common basis for decision-making – while maintaining full data sovereignty." 

The platform uses locally operated AI models, knowledge graphs, and edge computing so that analyses can be performed directly in the production environment and data sovereignty is maintained. 

Integrated portfolio for data-driven production 

The solutions presented are part of the integrated iTAC portfolio for digital manufacturing. The iTAC.MOM.Suite supports companies in planning, controlling, and monitoring production processes in real time. 

Together with its subsidiaries DUALIS and Accevo, iTAC will be demonstrating at HANNOVER MESSE how production planning, analysis, and process control interact seamlessly and together enable end-to-end digital processes – for greater transparency, higher efficiency, and sustainable, data-driven production. The three companies will present their solutions from April 20 to 24, 2026, in Hall 15, Booth E18.

The shared digitalization strategy aims to support customers comprehensively in transforming their manufacturing from the shop floor level all the way to data-driven optimization of global production networks. iTAC contributes strong software expertise and deep industrial manufacturing knowledge to develop modern Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) solutions.

MOM as the central building block of the digital factory 

Across the Dürr Group, digital competencies are consolidated to develop cross domain solutions for connected production ranging from equipment integration and MES/MOM systems to AI-driven analytics and maintenance applications. Within this portfolio, the MOM system forms a central foundation for transparency, control, and efficiency in manufacturing. 

For ten years, iTAC has played a key role in creating scalable and integrated production management solutions within the Dürr Group. The iTAC.MOM.Suite controls and optimizes production processes, supports detailed scheduling via integrated Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS), and connects production management, logistics, material flow, and maintenance into one seamless system.

The Dürr Group and iTAC have also implemented the “OneMES Strategy.” A standardized, group-wide MOM solution now digitally represents production in real time at Dürr’s manufacturing sites. This serves as a best practice model for rolling out comparable structures at other machinery and equipment manufacturers.

From MES provider to global MOM ecosystem 

Since becoming part of the Dürr Group, iTAC has continuously evolved from a traditional MES specialist into a globally positioned MOM ecosystem provider. Over the years, several companies have joined as subsidiaries, each adding technological depth and expanding the international footprint. 

DUALIS enhances the group’s capabilities in APS and simulation, enriching operational production management with reliable planning and scheduling functions. Cogiscan, which became part of the group in 2021, strengthens the offering especially in electronics manufacturing, contributing expertise in machine connectivity, track and trace, and analytics supported by its already strong global customer base. Accevo, another Dürr Group company, broadens the portfolio with software solutions for the process industry and brings extensive international project experience, particularly in the pharmaceutical, food & beverage and FMCG sectors. 

Through this integration, a cohesive and comprehensive offering has emerged across the entire manufacturing value chain from planning and connectivity to MOM/MES and data-driven optimization. At the same time, iTAC benefits from the global reach of the Dürr Group: new markets can be approached more rapidly, international rollouts executed more efficiently, and customers supported with greater consistency worldwide.

A leading MOM provider across multiple industries 

With the expansion of the iTAC portfolio with its sub-brands, the company has further strengthened its position in discrete manufacturing while extending into additional industries. Today, iTAC serves customers in automotive and e mobility, electronics/EMS, telecommunications, medical technology and other manufacturing sectors as well as process industries such as pharma, food & beverage and FMCG. This makes iTAC one of the MOM providers with one of the broadest technological and industry footprints.

Data-driven optimization and AI in everyday production 

Complementing the MOM core, analytics and AI functions support continuous improvement in production ranging from identifying optimization potentials to providing contextual knowledge directly in the manufacturing environment. This enables faster decision-making and more targeted actions, both within individual plants and across global production networks.

Ten years of partnership with a clear view ahead 

“Ten years within the Dürr Group reflect our consistent advancement of MES and MOM solutions for industrial environments,” says Martin Heinz, CEO of iTAC Software AG. “As a key part of Dürr’s digital strategy and together with our subsidiaries, we are shaping digital transformation across nearly all manufacturing industries with a strong focus on end to end processes, scalability and measurable value on the shopfloor.”

AI is the second step – not the first 

In manufacturing practice, it is becoming increasingly clear that artificial intelligence does not unfold its benefits at the beginning of digitalization but rather builds on it. AI approaches can only fully leverage their potential once production processes are transparently mapped, data is consistently available, and systems are effectively integrated. Without these foundations, AI often remains an isolated experiment – technically interesting, but without any lasting impact on everyday production. 

Holistic approach instead of AI as an end in itself 

By joining SEF Smart Electronic Factory e. V., iTAC brings a holistic approach to digitalization to the network. The company has many years of experience with integrated MES and MOM systems and supports the digitalization of production along the entire value chain. Artificial intelligence is understood as a tool that builds on a stable and integrated system landscape. 

When used correctly, artificial intelligence opens up considerable potential in manufacturing: it can help to make production knowledge more usable, identify correlations more quickly, and make more informed decisions. The prerequisite is that processes, systems, and knowledge are not isolated from one another, but are linked together. 

“Many companies currently want to integrate AI but the conditions must be right,” says Andreas Zerfas, VP Product Management at iTAC Software AG. “Our approach is to think about digitalization holistically and use AI as a meaningful addition to existing production systems. In the SEF, we can deepen and further develop this perspective together with users and other partners.” 

iTAC provides integrated manufacturing management solutions that combine production planning, control, analysis, and knowledge utilization in a single system. Based on MES and MOM structures, production processes are mapped transparently, real-time data is made consistently available, and linked to documentation and empirical knowledge. AI-supported functions build on these foundations – for example, for the context-related provision of information, the analysis of deviations, or the support of operational decisions. This results in an inte-grated approach. 

“An MIT study from 2025 shows that 95 percent of AI pilot projects in companies fail. This is due to a lack of benefits and poor understanding of context. Our collaboration with the SEF and its members is a strategic step for us to jointly implement projects with real and economic benefits for future users,” explains Martin Heinz, CEO at iTAC. 

With the addition of iTAC, SEF Smart Electronic Factory e. V. is strengthening its expertise in the field of integrated production systems and continuing its mission to support small and medium-sized manufacturing companies on their path to effective, sustainable digitalization.

With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars and a 100% recommendation rate, we feel it is clear that iTAC is consistently rated positively by users.

Manufacturing Management, Analytics, and AI Support 

iTAC Software AG is a leading MES/MOM provider offering the iTAC.MOM.Suite, a comprehensive manufacturing management system that controls and optimizes production processes. The integrated APS ensures smooth order planning, tightly linked with services for production management, logistics, and material control, as well as centralized equipment maintenance. To maximize overall production efficiency, it is essential to gain a clear understanding of optimization opportunities within manufacturing. The iTAC.MA.Suite product line – available as a standalone solution or as an extension to the MOM system – enables deep analytics at machine, line, and factory levels, along with AI-driven solutions for analysis and escalation processes. 

With the new AI-based chatbot “CATi”, iTAC introduces an intelligent platform that consolidates product documentation, technical descriptions, interface specifications, and live data from the iTAC.MOM.Suite into a centralized, context-based knowledge base. This gives users instant access to system information and real-time production data.

The standardized HTML5 client framework ensures modern user interfaces and high usability. In addition, low-code tools are available that make it easy to model business processes and individual HMIs. The solution can be flexibly deployed on-premises, as a hybrid solution, or on a cloud/IoT platform, and can be seamlessly integrated into customers' digital platform strategies.

Customer feedback as part of the optimization strategy 

“Executives in the manufacturing industry trust Gartner to help them make important technology decisions. This recognition is proof of our customers' satisfaction,” explains Martin Heinz, CEO of iTAC Software AG. “We rely on close cooperation and feedback from our customers to gain a deep understanding of their requirements and continuously tailor our solutions to them.” 

iTAC will showcase its latest innovations, including the intelligent bot CATi, at productronica 2025 in Hall A3, Booth 342. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with iTAC experts on application scenarios, best practices, and concrete digitalization projects.

Disclaimer 

*Gartner, Voice of the Customer for Manufacturing Execution Systems, By Peer Community Contributor, 30 October 2025 

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark, and PEER INSIGHTS is a trademark and service mark, of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. 

Gartner Peer Insights content consists of the opinions of individual end users based on their own experiences with the vendors listed on the platform, should not be construed as statements of fact, nor do they represent the views of Gartner or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in this content nor makes any warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this content, about its accuracy or completeness, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. 

This graphic was published by Gartner, Inc. as part of a larger research document and should be evaluated in the context of the entire document. The Gartner document is available upon request from iTAC Software.

Local AI and edge computing for secure knowledge delivery 
CATi uses local AI models, knowledge graphs, and edge computing to provide information immediately and securely — without a cloud connection and with full data sovereignty. The platform offers targeted support to all stakeholders: executives gain transparency into processes and key performance indicators, line managers receive well-founded recommendations for action, and shop floor employees have access to clear, multilingual instructions. An intuitive conversational interface allows questions to be asked in natural language – CATi immediately provides accurate, context-sensitive answers. 

Holistic ecosystem for smart manufacturing 
iTAC.CATi is an intelligent AI-supported chatbot that complements the company's existing portfolio, which includes the modular iTAC.MOM.Suite and iTAC.MA.Suite. Together, these solutions form a consistent basis for networked, transparent, and data-driven production. iTAC pursues a holistic approach: production errors should be reduced, downtime minimized, and decisions accelerated. The combination of machine integration, real-time data analysis, local AI, and context-based knowledge provision creates a powerful ecosystem for smart manufacturing. With CATi, production processes become more transparent, efficient, and resilient — knowledge becomes a productive factor, available at all times, secure, and context-related. 

iTAC will showcase its full range of services at productronica in Hall A3/342.

The tool set provides immediate access to essential production data and goes from basic real-time monitoring of MES/MOM to advanced analyses designed to optimize production efficiency and proactively improve product quality. The iTAC.MA.Suite is built on four pillars that address the core challenges of modern manufacturing: iTAC.SMT.Edge, iTAC.Asset.Analyzer, iTAC.IIoT.Edge, and iTAC.AOD.

iTAC.SMT.Edge connects machines faster and more securely
In the SMT world, integrating new machines often poses a major challenge – complex interfaces and high integration costs slow down digitalization. iTAC.SMT.Edge drastically reduces the connection time for machines – from days and sometimes even months, dramatically increasing the time-to-value at customers. In addition to normalizing per-board events, aligning cycles, and feeding the rest of the iTAC.MA.Suite with a clean, continuous data stream, optional modules also provide an SMT-specific data model and with interactive visualization tools and reports.

iTAC.Asset.Analyzer makes systems transparent 
Unclear data and missing baselines hinder fast decisions. The iTAC.Asset.Analyzer operational tool provides quick and easy insight without requiring in-depth technical system’s expertise on the user side. This allows customers to be up and running immediately. The integrated Downtime Tracker monitors, logs, and precisely documents downtime in real time, making production and performance losses visible – for informed decisions instead of guesswork. The additional Asset.Analyzer.AI.Playbook module, which iTAC will launch shortly, combines real-time tracking, connected worker tools, and AI-based analyses.

iTAC.IIoT.Edge brings deep AI to production 
Artificial intelligence often remains stuck in the lab – iTAC.IIoT.Edge brings AI to the shopfloor. The solution enables the easy deployment and management of ML models on multiple edge devices. Thanks to plug-and-play integration, industrial-grade security, and complete governance, AI is seamlessly integrated into existing production environments.

The scalable solution is aimed at experts and looks deep into production. It is used to connect, manage, and analyze data from various devices, sensors, and systems. The integrated IIoT.Edge.Model.Manager function enables the seamless distribution and installation of ML models on multiple edge devices. This ensures that each device has the appropriate model version for its specific tasks. The iTAC.IIoT.Edge.Cloud.Connector feature, which is also included, facilitates the secure and efficient transfer of data from the edge device to the cloud infrastructure. This allows companies to use cloud-based analysis, storage, and AI tools.

Living knowledge with iTAC.Ask.Our.Doc 
Rigid MES systems and static documentation keep critical know-how locked away. iTAC.Ask.Our.Doc (AOD) makes this knowledge accessible: The solution is based on modern language models and combines iTAC documents, customer-specific instructions, and, in the future, live MES data in an intuitive conversation interface. Users ask questions in natural language and immediately receive clear, context-related answers – understandable, multilingual, and directly implementable. This makes expert knowledge available at all times and supports informed decisions in production.

Holistic system for data-based decisions 
"The holistic approach we pursue at iTAC creates the conditions for making well-founded and timely data-based decisions, as well as sustainably reducing production errors and downtime. With our analysis solutions, we pave the way for companies to gain a comprehensive understanding of performance and thus achieve higher productivity and better quality," says Martin Strempel.

The requirements vary depending on the industry and corporate strategy. "Some companies consistently rely on cloud-first strategies, while others – such as those in regulated industries or with critical infrastructure – have to work on-premises for compliance or latency reasons. A modern MES or MOM platform must be able to map all worlds. And it must be both standardized and highly individualized," explains Martin Heinz, CEO of iTAC Software AG. 

MES in transition: open, networkable, AI-capable 

The increasing integration of AI applications and data-driven services also requires a rethink. These can only be used efficiently if the MES functions as an open, service-based platform that can be connected to modern IT stacks and existing systems. 

iTAC supplies the iTAC.MOM.Suite, a comprehensive manufacturing operations management system. Red Hat OpenShift, the foundation for Red Hat's advanced compute platform, provides the technological basis for a containerized, highly automated platform. At its core is a microservice architecture based on open standards such as Helm, Apache Kafka and PostgreSQL. 

The joint solution supports various operational models: from classic on-premises installations to hybrid scenarios and fully cloud-based setups. Edge applications, such as those for real-time requirements, can also be supported. 

"The combination of OpenShift, GitOps principles and iTAC's MOM architecture addresses companies that want to digitalize their manufacturing processes quickly and easily. It emphasizes the consistent openness and modularization of industrial software," explains Morten Rohlfes, EMEA Director Edge and Industrial at Red Hat.

 Operation and maintenance of the platform are largely automated. To this end, iTAC relies on OpenShift Operators and DevSecOps methods that enable simple development, management and configuration across the entire software lifecycle. In the future, AI-enabled functions will be added to the platform, for example for the automated documentation of system changes or the optimization of operating processes.

 iTAC addresses all manufacturing industries with its portfolio. With Accevo's expertise, industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and fast moving consumer goods are now in focus. Accevo offers industrial software solutions tailored to these specific industry requirements. The solutions include a Manufacturing Execution System (MES), a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and a Paperless with BPM solution. 

iTAC ecosystem expands 

"The key to a digitized industry lies in platforms with modular, scalable software components for all disciplines. With companies in the iTAC network—DUALIS, Cogiscan, and now Accevo—we are becoming a comprehensive provider in nearly all manufacturing industries," says Martin Heinz.

iTAC & Accevo focuses on flexible deployment options—on-premises, hybrid, or on a Cloud/IoT platform—as well as modern microservices and low-code applications. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports smarter automation, predictive analytics, and data-driven decision-making. 

In the coming months, Accevo and iTAC plan to expand AI-driven automation and predictive analytics capabilities as well as continuously develop the technological infrastructure. 

Szymon Piróg, CEO of Accevo, states, "As part of the Dürr Group, we can develop and bring new, more comprehensive features to market more quickly by accessing various resources and expertise. Now, the company is further empowered by iTAC`s proven MoM and IIoT Technology. Customers benefit from a broad range of offerings for their challenges, allowing them to achieve the speed and agility increasingly demanded in their markets. This approach fuels the growth of both companies and creates one of the strongest and most comprehensive offerings on the market"

The iTAC.MOM.Suite closes this information gap. It is a comprehensive manufacturing management system that covers all requirements, including production and quality management, traceability and real-time control of production processes. A total of 1,700 devices are now connected to the solution at Alps Alpine – from SMT to final assembly.

Connecting machines and systems from different manufacturers
A core element of the new solution is the iTAC.SMT.Edge. In SMT production, there are machines and systems from different manufacturers and of different ages that use different communication methods. This makes data transfer and analysis more difficult.

iTAC.SMT.Edge makes it possible to connect machines and systems from different manufacturers in a bidirectional network. The data is consolidated on the shop floor by means of an edge solution-based machine integration platform and distributed to the higher-level company systems, such as the MES, via a direct interface.

Edge technology provides a simple way to collect, link and analyze data from all SMT machines in real time. This means that important key figures such as cycle times and productivity can be compared not only within a plant, but also across several locations.

Alps Alpine started out by using the iTAC.SMT.Edge at its plant in Hungary. After successful testing, the solution was rolled out to other locations such as Mexico, China and Japan.

Immediately identify errors using real-time data 
iTAC.SMT.Edge enables a high level of data availability, among other things. Alps Alpine particularly appreciates the availability of real-time data, which significantly improves the traceability of parts and components within the company. “With the previous system, tracking data was very difficult and time-consuming. Now we have instant access to all the information we need,” states Ákos Varga. This considerably simplifies and speeds up the internal troubleshooting process.

This form of traceability is equally important for OEMs. “In the event of complaints, the affected component must be found as quickly as possible – regardless of whether it is still in the warehouse or has already been installed in a vehicle. Thanks to the iTAC solution, the time needed for such investigations has been significantly reduced. What used to take days can now be determined in a few minutes,” says Ákos Varga.

Outlook: further automation and predictions 
Alps Alpine has laid the foundation for future automation with the iTAC.MES.Suite and the iTAC.SMT.Edge solution. Planned expansions in the areas of data analytics, predictive maintenance and anomaly detection show that automation is becoming increasingly important in order to overcome the shortage of skilled workers and to make production processes more resilient and efficient. “We are striving for a production system in which machines independently detect problems and provide early warnings of failures. Further development towards more automated production ensures long-term competitiveness in the company,” explains Ákos Varga.

The iTAC.MOM.Suite maps all processes – from production planning to quality control. The Manufacturing Operations Management system combines Manufacturing Execution System (MES) functions with real-time solutions for controlling, optimizing and forecasting production processes. It has all the necessary functions for networking and automating processes. The open and service-oriented architecture facilitates data exchange and forms the basis for seamless integration into existing platform concepts. The microservices approach makes it easy to expand the system with new functionalities as needed.

MOM with all components for comprehensive production optimization
The iTAC.MA.Suite, which can be seamlessly integrated into the MOM system, expands the scope of the solution with comprehensive analyses – both real-time evaluations and in-depth examinations of historical production data. This enables companies to understand, evaluate and improve their processes.

When it comes to production planning, the Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) service from DUALIS is an integral part of the iTAC.MOM.Suite. It enables optimized production planning, considering factors such as resource availability and bottleneck analysis. The software helps companies to make their production processes more efficient, shorten throughput times and meet delivery deadlines.

With its solution portfolio, iTAC addresses all manufacturing industries. For the needs of the process industry, the software solutions from Accevo are used. The company specializes in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and fast-moving consumer goods and ensures that manufacturers achieve greater efficiency, traceability and compliance. In addition, Accevo offers Electronic Batch Records (EBR) to support pharmaceutical production with automated data collection and regulatory compliance.

“In the Dürr Group, we are focusing on bundling digital expertise in order to provide comprehensive and customized systems for all manufacturing industries. The iTAC portfolio shows how specialized solutions can be intelligently linked, saving our customers the time, effort and costs that would arise from using many individual software solutions,” explains Martin Heinz.

Andreas Zerfas is head of Product Management at iTAC and is thus also responsible for the continuous optimization and alignment of the product strategy, which includes the consolidation and integration of Cogiscan, ANT Solutions and DUALIS technologies into iTAC's existing ecosystem. 

Cogiscan provides track, trace and control solutions for electronics manufacturing that enable seamless traceability in production. ANT specializes in smart factory solutions for the FMCG and pharmaceutical industries. DUALIS develops advanced planning and scheduling (APS) solutions for precise production planning and optimization. 

“The future lies in holistic platforms with ecosystems that support industrial companies in the digital transformation of manufacturing processes and offer modular, scalable solutions to solve daily challenges as needed. I am very pleased to be able to contribute my experience to iTAC again,” says Andreas Zerfas. 

Between his previous and current roles at iTAC, the expert worked for German Edge Cloud as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Digital Industrial Solutions. There he played a key role in the development of the ONCITE Digital Production System (DPS) platform.

“Modern battery production is highly complex, requiring precision processes combined with high production speeds to meet growing demand. At the same time, it is subject to strict industry-specific quality standards. For our customer project, where we are currently setting up production lines, an MES/MOM system is indispensable. After a thorough 4-month selection process, we concluded that the iTAC.MOM.Suite meets all the technological requirements essential for the production of battery modules and packs. Additionally, we at Rimac Technology found iTAC’s transparency and reliability throughout the process to be invaluable qualities in a future partner explains Martina Raguž, IT Project Manager at Rimac Technology.

The iTAC.MOM.Suite production management system from iTAC enables the mapping, control and planning of the entire production process and ensures active traceability. "In the challenging production of battery cells, materials are used that are difficult to process and sometimes highly dangerous. To minimize risks and avoid errors, seamless traceability and comprehensive quality analyses are essential. This enables quality and performance characteristics as well as all standards and specific requirements to be met,” says Diogo Oliveira, Sales Manager MOM EMEA at iTAC Software AG.

Greenfield development – designed from scratch
A unique aspect of this project is that the shop floor at Rimac is a greenfield site, meaning this MES implementation is foundational, with no legacy systems or software to replace. This presents an opportunity to build the entire production infrastructure from scratch in a new, state-of-the-art environment. Without the need to integrate existing systems or make compromises in the IT architecture, the MES/MOM system can be precisely tailored to the specific demands of modern battery production at Rimac from the outset.

The go-live of the system for the battery pack production line is planned for mid-2025, with the module production line expected to follow shortly after.

Being a greenfield project makes this project even more innovative, creative, and challenging to implement. However, with the expertise of the Rimac Technology, project sponsorship by our COO Nurdin Pitarević, and the capabilities of the iTAC software—which has proven critical for us—we are well-prepared for possible future expansions, emphasizes Martina Raguž.

“We have successfully established iTAC in the market as a MOM provider in recent years. A MOM goes far beyond the classic MES functions by integrating all production and business processes, creating a consistent database. In response to of the increasing complexity in the manufacturing industry – from global supply chains to shorter product life cycles and individual customer re-quirements – a MOM is the holistic platform for meeting these challenges. I will continue to consistently pursue this successful path with my team and develop new functionalities, for example in the field of AI,” says Martin Heinz.

Martin Heinz has extensive technical and strategic experience in the areas of production, logistics and industrial software solutions. He studied industrial engineering and holds an Executive MBA from the THM Business School. He began his career in 1996 in the automotive supply industry before taking responsibility for production and purchasing at a leading MR sensor technology company in 2000.

Martin Heinz has been part of iTAC Software AG since 2003 and has held numerous management positions in the company during this time, including Vice President Product Management and Vice President Operations. Since 2011, he has held the position of General Manager of the D-A-CH division (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), driving strategic and operational development in this role. He has been a member of iTAC's Management Board since 2020 and was appointed Chairman on January 1, 2025.

Furthermore, Martin Heinz has been a member of the management board of DUALIS GmbH IT Solution, a subsidiary of iTAC Software AG, since 2017. Martin Heinz is also actively involved in various industry associations, such as the ZVEI (electronic and digital industries) and the VDMA (German Engineering Association), as well as in working groups on the topics of traceability, MES and Industry 4.0. 

iTAC is consistently pursuing innovation and its iTAC.MOM.Suite is a development of MES that opens up a new dimension in production control. By using IIoT technologies, the solution creates a seamless link between analysis, networking, and automation. Its ability to control and monitor production in real time minimizes errors and avoids downtime. A key advantage is its microservices architecture, which provides functionalities as required, promoting maximum flexibility. 

iTAC has also introduced the iTAC.MA.Suite, which integrates AI-supported analyses. It enables real-time and historical analyses at machine, line, and shopflor level, allowing companies to monitor and optimize their production processes with high precision in a dashboard. Real-time metrics enable proactive data-driven decisions, while machine conditions can be predicted, and production quality can be improved. 

In addition, iTAC offers flexible deployment options to meet different customer requirements across a wide range of industries, including on-premises, cloud-based, and hybrid models. The hybrid model uses edge technology to process data locally and it only transfers critical information to the cloud, maximizing cost efficiency and accelerating data processing. 

“iTAC Software solidifies its leadership in the market through its relentless commitment to innovation and excellence. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as real-time analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, the company enhances operational efficiency and ensures rigorous compliance with industry regulations. Its strategic alignment with customer needs and proactive engagement in feedback loops reinforce its reputation as a reliable and agile partner. Through continuous advancements and tailored solutions, iTAC Software stands at the forefront of MES, driving transformative improvements and setting the benchmark of manufacturing excellence in the global market,” explains Ain Sarah Aishah, best practices research analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

Further information here.

“Smart manufacturing, in other words essentially intelligent production, involves the integration of modern digitalization and automation solutions as well as the use of artificial intelligence to make production processes more efficient, flexible, adaptable and resource-saving. The goals in battery production, for example, are real-time traceability and AI-supported data-driven decisions to improve quality and reduce waste,” explains Martin Strempel, Business Development Manager Data Analytics at iTAC.

In a presentation at MESA International's virtual event “Smart Manufacturing Now!”, the expert will use iTAC's “Manufacturing Analytics Control” product line to demonstrate how crucial analyses are for process optimization. 

iTAC is a MESA member and sponsor of the event. “We are looking forward to taking part in this prestigious event. The international exchange allows us to think outside the box and jointly develop new ideas for more efficient, more sustainable and higher quality production processes in various industries,” explains Martin Heinz, member of the iTAC Software AG Management Board. 

More information can be found here.

In the “Hype Cycle for Revenue and Sales Technology, 2024”, iTAC is positioned as a Sample Vendor in the “Composite Applications” segment. We believe that iTAC is therefore setting a good example in this area. “Composable stands for a modern IT architecture concept in which systems and applications are composed of modular, reusable and independent components. These components can include different types of software modules, microservices, containers or applications and can be developed using different technologies and platforms. They are designed to be easily combinable, interchangeable and scalable in order to be able to react quickly to business requirements and market changes. “These trends and the continuing digitalization and automation in the manufacturing industry are driving the development of MES/MOM systems. The switch from monolithic systems to microservice-oriented architectures therefore enables greater independence, flexibility and agility,” explains Martin Heinz, board member of iTAC Software AG. 

The Manufacturing Operations Management solution iTAC.MOM.Suite works according to this principle, setting new standards in the manufacturing industry. The MOM combines Manufacturing Execution System (MES) functions with real-time solutions for controlling, optimizing and forecasting production processes. It has all the necessary functions for networking and automating processes. The open and service-oriented architecture simplifies data exchange and forms the basis for seamless integration into existing platform concepts. The microservices approach makes it easy to add new functionalities as required. 

Martin Heinz says: “We think the recognition in the Gartner report confirms that our production management system is fit for the future.“

Read the full report here.

The Asset Analyzer, a tool from the "Manufacturing Analytics Control" product family, helps companies to identify quality problems in production and increase overall efficiency. The solution can be used across all industries, for example in the automotive, electronics and medical sectors, but also in areas such as injection molding, metal processing and battery production. 

Everything in sight – automatic error detection through AI 

The Asset Analyzer is a tool or dashboard that enables performance analysis of the entire production environment. "This gives companies a clear insight into current and past performance, which is particularly beneficial for critical machines and processes. Operators can react quickly and efficiently to deviations and gain a comprehensive understanding thanks to the holistic view. It is no longer necessary to call up several systems, as the information can be found centrally in a dashboard. This saves time when searching for deviations and increases transparency at the same time", says Martin Strempel, Business Development Manager Data Analytics at iTAC Software AG. 

One particular advantage is the proactive solution to quality problems. Quality parameters can be managed in real time and an AI engine automatically detects errors, for example in electrocoating. Real-time notifications via MS Teams provide information in the case of alarms, events and abnormal behavior, resulting in fewer errors in the production process. 

The solution supports the intuitive retrieval of machine or process data in the dashboard. Access to your own data is made considerably easier, as information from various machines and process steps in the production environment can be retrieved quickly and easily. 

Applicable without technical knowledge 

A key advantage of the Asset Analyzer is its user-friendliness. It is designed for process operators, engineers and management – not just IT or AI specialists. No special skills or knowledge are required to perform in-depth analysis. Dashboards can be configured within minutes. The solution is globally scalable. 

"Many other tools are complicated to use, require special expertise and are often not designed to analyze the entire production environment. In addition, they often have manufacturer or hardware dependencies. Our aim is to provide tools that are not only powerful, but also quick to implement and, above all, easy to use. With the Asset Analyzer, we are paving the way for a comprehensive understanding of performance and thus for higher productivity and quality," says Martin Strempel.

MOM systems with SCADA and APS functionalities, such as those offered by iTAC, the parent company Dürr and the subsidiary DUALIS in combination, offer various advantages over traditional MES. The switch from monolithic systems to microservice-oriented architectures enables greater flexibility, scalability and agility in the production environment.

Thanks to the modular structure of the MOM, companies can select specific functions from the standard portfolio in a process-oriented manner, configure them as required and – if necessary – adapt them in order to optimally integrate the processes and achieve the desired benefits.

From MES to MOM

"The switch from MES to MOM brings significant benefits for production management and the supply chain. In times of increasing threats to companies from criminal hackers and institutions, future-proof MOM systems must now also be developed, integrated and operated with a strong focus on IT security. By introducing security measures in all aspects, companies can achieve a secure, robust and trustworthy manufacturing IT landscape that meets the requirements of a modern factory," says Volker Burch.

iTAC ensures that security aspects are integrated into the process right from the start. From development to implementation and operation of the iTAC.MOM.Suite, clear guidelines and state of the art standards are followed. A holistic approach – from architecture and software design to implementation, testing and deployment – takes the relevant security aspects into account at every stage and is supported by established, audited processes and tools. While there used to be common security vulnerabilities in the development of software, these are now largely eliminated thanks to the support of tools that provide early warning of potential threat scenarios.

Laws and guidelines provide a new framework

There are also various efforts and measures on the part of legislators to strengthen the resilience of organizations to cyber attacks and to minimize the impact of security incidents. The Cyber Resilience Act is currently gaining in importance in this context.

Volker Burch explains: "The Cyber Resilience Act is a clear call to action that requires companies to strengthen their security measures and proactively address cyber threats. By implementing cybersecurity best practices, organizations can not only protect their data and operations, but also protect their investment and reputation by building trust with customers. Otherwise, security incidents cause potential financial losses and reputational damage. In addition, the Cyber Resilience Act offers companies the opportunity to differentiate themselves from competitors by demonstrating that they are actively addressing cybersecurity challenges and continuously improving their systems and processes."

Compliance with guidelines and laws is also of global relevance, as Volker Burch points out: "By investing in secure systems such as our MOM, companies can not only protect their own interests, but also help to strengthen the overall security of the digital industry."

Last year, Dürr, GROB and Manz formed the first European cooperation to emerge in the field of production technology for lithium-ion batteries – with the aim of establishing themselves as suppliers of complete battery production systems. Together with other partners, they offer the entire plant and digitalization technology for the production of vehicle batteries from a European source. The value stream covers all stages from electrode production to battery pack assembly.  

End-to-end digitalization for battery production

In this context, iTAC is the expert for the digitalization of processes. The iTAC.MOM.Suite production management system from iTAC and Dürr can map all processes end-to-end. It enables the mapping, control and planning of the entire production process as well as traceability. 

Traceability is one of the most important building blocks here. “In the demanding production of battery cells, materials are used that are difficult to process and sometimes very dangerous. To minimize risks, avoid errors and optimize processes, end-to-end traceability and quality analysis are essential. In this way, quality and performance characteristics as well as all standards and other requirements can be met,” explains Martin Heinz, board member of iTAC Software AG.

In addition to the traceability functionality, the iTAC.MOM.Suite offers tools such as the iTAC.BI.Service and Quality Management. These provide analysis and reporting functions for all product-related quality data. This allows the quality of the electrodes to be evaluated and analyzed throughout the entire process. “Defects, such as holes that can occur in the coating production process, are documented, can be traced and thus sorted out in later process steps. Transparency in production is possible with both business intelligence and real-time dashboarding. This makes optimization potential visible,” says Martin Heinz.

The use of data analytics tools ensures that changes and anomalies are detected at an early stage, thus creating the basis for predictive control of production processes (predictive quality) in battery production. In addition to the lithium-ion battery cell, other cell types can also be mapped in the iTAC solution.

At the same time, it is important to ensure a high level of efficiency through sophisticated production planning in order to meet the continuously increasing demand. In combination with the Advanced Planning and Scheduling System (APS) from DUALIS integrated in the iTAC.MOM.Suite, optimized production planning based on actual and limited capacities is possible. This creates a holistic planning approach that takes all resources (machines, processes, tools, materials, personnel) into account and ensures their optimal use.

Martin Heinz explains: “In combination with the system technology, we are working with Dürr and the other partners to enable manufacturing companies to increase their production capacities for batteries quickly and safely. They don't have to spend time searching for several partners who ultimately offer isolated solutions, which can be at the risk of process efficiency and cost-effectiveness.”