Metallbau Herbst
Moving to paperless production, increasing efficiency and motivating the next generation of skilled workers – with these clear objectives, Metallbau Herbst introduced Logikal MES into its operations.
Metallbau Herbst digitises production with Logikal MES
Metallbau Herbst GmbH is a long-established family business based in Arendsee in Germany and employs around 30 people. The prequalified company manufactures and installs windows, doors, façades and fire protection elements made of aluminium and glass.
The company has been using the Logikal software since 2003. In 2022 it took the next step: Managing Director Renee Herbst implemented the Logikal MES production control system in its manufacturing operations. The company also uses SimplyTag. This QR code-based tag is attached to each element and acts as a digital shortcut between the fabricator and the customer.
Openness to all systems was key to choosing Logikal
When first introducing calculation and design software more than two decades ago, Metallbau Herbst started with a solution from a system provider. However, it quickly became clear that the company wanted to remain open to all systems. “There can always be unforeseen circumstances,” explains Renee Herbst, “for example, if the system provider cannot supply the product you need to offer on the market. In that case, you need an alternative system supplier.” The company therefore made a deliberate decision in favour of Logikal – and has remained with it ever since. As Renee Herbst emphasises, they are very satisfied. Today, Logikal offers product catalogues from more than 450 suppliers, allowing fabricators of windows, doors and façades to configure solutions precisely to their needs.
“We have no data loss, and all data is digitally available at every workstation. From a quality perspective, this is a major gain for us. And quantitatively, production runs much faster.”
- Renee Herbst, Managing Director, Metallbau Herbst GmbH
The journey to paperless production with Logikal MES
With the introduction of a Manufacturing Execution System, Metallbau Herbst pursued three key objectives: moving away from paper-based production, increasing efficiency and addressing the shortage of skilled labour. Processes that were previously handled manually can now be mapped digitally using Logikal MES. Work preparation takes place in the office and is transferred digitally to workstations in the workshop. “We have no data loss, and all data is digitally available at every workstation. From a quality perspective, this is a major gain for us. And quantitatively, production runs much faster,” explains Renee Herbst. Logikal MES also supports CE certification and factory production control (FPC). The required data can be generated automatically.
SimplyTag as a digital link to after-sales service
Metallbau Herbst also relies on seamless digital integration after production, delivery and installation. Since 2023, the company has been using SimplyTag. The QR code tag is assigned in the workshop and attached to each element. All relevant data relating to the individual product can be stored – including CE marking, which is then transferred digitally in a legally compliant manner. Customers can access approved data via the QR code, as well as request maintenance directly or report damage.
Engaging digital natives – attracting future skilled workers
Consistent digitalisation of processes also provides an excellent opportunity to attract young talent to the trade. This is an important aspect for Renee Herbst, as reflected in the company’s recognition as a top training provider in the skilled trades. “We need to motivate the next generation of skilled workers, and digitalisation is one way of doing that,” he explains. “Apprentices grow up differently from our generation – with tablets and digital tools – and have a different approach. They think: ‘Let’s try it – nothing will break that quickly.’ They are more open to it, try things out and are quicker to see the benefits. We should adapt to that – it’s how we motivate young people to join the trade.”
Bringing all employees on board
It was important for the master metalworker to involve all employees in the introduction of Logikal MES. “We work with eight MES workstations,” emphasises Renee Herbst. “And that’s essential – if we don’t bring everyone along, there will be no acceptance.” Each employee needs their own workstation with access to data; otherwise, it simply won’t work in practice. “I’ve heard of others who took a half-hearted approach with just two or three workstations – and then the employees never really accepted it.” In such cases, MES cannot succeed, because: “MES is an industry standard.” A standard that has enabled Metallbau Herbst to further improve quality and efficiency in its production processes.
“We need to motivate the next generation of skilled workers, and digitalisation is one way of doing that.”
- Renee Herbst, Managing Director, Metallbau Herbst GmbH
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