SEW-EURODRIVE is one of the award-winning companies in the „Factory of the Year“. The northern hall in Graben-Neudorf received an award in the “Outstanding Series Production” category. The award highlights the combination of automated processes, modular structures, and a clear Industry 4.0 approach. It shows how modern production and digital quality management complement each other.
Production for shafts and gear parts went into operation at the end of 2024. It was 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 can be quickly adapted as needed. The hall is thus prepared for growth and high quality requirements.
Digitization as the basis for quality
Production performance does not depend solely on machines and systems. Digital quality processes are a key component. SEW-EURODRIVE consistently uses digital checklists and standardized processes in its North Hall. Deviations can be identified early on. Improvements can be implemented in a structured manner. This gives production stability, reliability, and predictable delivery capabilities. 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. The North Hall 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 everyday 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.
About cluetec
cluetec GmbH, based in Karlsruhe, specializes in the digitization of quality assurance processes. These include audits, inspections, and checklists of all kinds. With cluetec Audit, the company offers a powerful software solution for planning, conducting, tracking, and analyzing 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.
Press contact: cluetec GmbH, Lennart Preuß, l.preuss@cluetec.de
