Mechanical Engineering Meets Digitalization: INFORM and VDMA Drive a Sustainable Industry 4.0

Combining mechanical engineering with software and digitalization – this is the mission of VDMA (German Mechanical and Plant Engineering Association) and its dedicated working group of the same name. More than 500 members are committed to this idea. Our Production division has been actively involved for 20 years. In October 2024, our Head of Sales, Markus Günther, was also elected to the Executive Board: "Serving on the Executive Board now gives me the opportunity to play an even more active role in shaping current issues in mechanical engineering. The exchange of experiences with the other members is both highly enriching and valuable for my own work. In the past, we have already organized a joint booth with the association at the Hannover Messe. In addition, our customers support VDMA events with presentations. I have always found the collaboration very enriching." 

Presentations and sessions in the context of digitalization, the EU Data Act, the digital product passport, Manufacturing-X and Factory-X, as well as a gala evening rounded off the VDMA General Meeting on election day. Manufacturing-X focuses on a data space that ensures sovereign data access and enables secure exchange – without storing data itself, unlike platform approaches. On the path to "Industry 4.0," the association supports its members in the digital transformation of processes, products, and organizations with a targeted range of events, studies, and working groups. It represents both software manufacturers and development departments of well-known mechanical engineering companies on the market. The VDMA also addresses current trends such as artificial intelligence (AI), mobility in manufacturing, and fundamental issues of modern software technology. Companies benefit from their expertise in AI, usability, user experience, cloud computing, and big data. 

Blue Competence sorgt ensures sustainability

The trade association also focuses on a green economy. We have been a partner of the VDMA sustainability initiative for over three years. The so-called Blue Competence is intended to ensure an economy fit for our grandchildren. The trade association aims to introduce industry to sustainable solutions that lead to new energy concepts and the efficient use of scarce resources, as well as improve the quality of life. 

The Blue Competence principles contribute to the same goals as INFORM's sustainability efforts. Even before joining, we had established an internal network that actively engages with the Sustainable Development Goals. We are convinced that change begins with ourselves. Therefore, we are expanding the classic three-pillar model of sustainable development (planet, social, profit) to include a fourth dimension: the individual. For a long-term sustainable approach, it is important to harmonize the goals and requirements of all pillars. With Blue Competence, we can further advance our corporate goal of sustainability and actively promote the VDMA guidelines for environmentally friendly action. 

With the help of software solutions for digital decision-making and resource optimization, INFORM aims to contribute to sustainable industry. Our Production division is doing this with the APS system FELIOS. Would you like to learn more about our tool? Please contact us!