Factory of the year: How SEW-EURODRIVE is setting new standards in Graben-Neudorf

The production facility for shafts and gear parts went into operation at the end of 2024. It is planned and implemented as a smart factory. The site is based on flow-oriented end-to-end processes and mobile assistance systems. A self-regulating control loop ensures that processes remain stable and adapt quickly if necessary. The hall is thus prepared for growth and high quality requirements.

Digitization as the basis for quality

Production performance does not only depend on machines and systems. Digital quality processes are a central component. SEW-EURODRIVE consistently relies on digital checklists and standardized processes at the “Halle Nord” plant. Deviations can be detected at an early stage. Improvements can be implemented in a structured manner. As a result, production gains stability, reliability and predictable delivery capability.

Data is becoming an important tool, particularly in the context of smart factory quality management. In series production with a high degree of automation, consistent measurement processes are crucial. Risks can only be identified in good time if all parties involved have the same level of information. Digital audits support this approach. They create transparency across locations and service providers. The data forms the basis for continuous improvement.

Digitized audits wiht cluetec

SEW-EURODRIVE has been using cluetec’s audit software since 2022. The software maps safety inspections, 5S audits, and process audits completely digitally. Employees conduct their audits using tablets or smartphones. Findings are documented directly on site. Photos and descriptions are sent directly to a central web portal, where they are evaluated and measures are controlled.

The result is crystal clear. Media discontinuities are eliminated. Response times for deviations are reduced. Managers gain a transparent overview of the status of audits. Executives can track key figures in real time. Priorities in improvement processes can be set clearly. This combination of structure and speed contributed to the company’s success in the “Factory of the Year” competition.

Digital audits are an advantage – this is why

Digital audits generate a reliable database. They help companies standardize processes and make developments traceable. Those who digitize audits no longer work with scattered Excel lists or handwritten notes. Instead, a consistent system is created that bundles all relevant information.

For companies such as SEW-EURODRIVE, this offers obvious benefits

• Processes become traceable and remain stable.
• Audit data can be evaluated and compared.
• Actions become visible and remain traceable.
• Responsible parties can respond faster to deviations.

This is particularly important in the context of Industry 4.0. Automated manufacturing does not mean that problems solve themselves. It means that data and processes must fit together. Digital audits create the basis for this. They enable clean analysis. They prevent information loss. They strengthen a company’s ability to further develop its production.

What this means for cluetec

For cluetec, the award from SEW-EURODRIVE shows how important digital audits are for modern production plants. “Halle Nord” combines automation, assistance systems and digital quality processes into a coherent overall system. The audit software supports this structure by creating a central platform for planning, implementation and follow-up. This reduces the workload for employees and improves quality in day-to-day operations.

Digitization in production is not an end in itself. It is a prerequisite for ensuring that plants remain scalable. It helps companies respond to increasing demands. It supports the implementation of Industry 4.0 concepts. Digital audits are part of the foundation. They provide an overview. They ensure reliable data. They enable improvements that have an impact throughout the entire plant.

The “Factory of the Year” award clearly shows that this approach pays off. SEW-EURODRIVE demonstrates how a plant can set new standards with well-thought-out digitization and a clear structure. Digital audits play a recognizable role in this. They help to ensure quality and continuously improve processes. This is precisely what creates long-term success.

cluetec GmbH, based in Karlsruhe, specializes in the digitization of quality assurance processes. Dazu zählen Audits, Kontrollen und Checklisten aller Art. Mit cluetec Audit bietet das Unternehmen eine leistungsstarke Software-Lösung für die Planung, Durchführung, Nachverfolgung und Analyse von Audits. cluetec Audit supports its customers in reducing business risk and operating more sustainably, while at the same time creating full transparency across the processes mapped.

The solution is used across a range of industries, particularly in mechanical and plant engineering, manufacturing, and technical services. cluetec has been part of the Possehl Digital Group since 2022.

Pressekontakt: cluetec GmbH, Lennart Preuß, l.preuss@cluetec.de