The VDMA Software and Digitalization supports companies in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in the pre-selection of software systems as well as in the areas of production, digital process optimization, data analysis, AI and cybersecurity.
For years, better systems have led to significant increases in the performance of machines, components and processes. At the same time, the selection of suppliers on the market is increasing and is almost impossible for those in demand to keep track of.
"In our industry guide, companies will find an extensive directory of VDMA member companies that can support and advise mechanical and plant engineering companies on digitization and new software technologies," says Prof. Claus Oetter, Managing Director of the VDMA Software and Digitalization.
With the new industry guide "Added value through software", the VDMA Software and Digitalization is making it easier for companies in the mechanical and plant engineering sector to pre-select software systems.
AI as a trend topic
One of the trend topics for industrial software development is generative AI and will become even more important in the coming years. More and more VDMA member companies are therefore dealing with the topic or are already using generative AI.
"Thanks to technologies such as ChatGPT, AI has now also found its way into corporate applications and thus made the leap from the shop floor to the office floors," says Prof. Claus Oetter, Managing Director of VDMA Software and Digitalization.
Software projects will experience a productivity boost because the software specialists can now concentrate on the essential work and leave the routine work to AI. But here too, the professional quality check by the experienced programmer is essential.
Data as the basis for digital business models
Another important topic for industrial software development is the data infrastructure.
"New business models are based on data. This data must be collected, reviewed and cleaned in order to be usable for future digital business models," reports Oetter. "The expansion of the data infrastructure is therefore also of great relevance for industry. An additional strong driver in this context is the EU Data Act."
