Dashboard for operating software (OT) created in collaboration
A user-defined dashboard with real-time values is the result of software development and the digitalization of processes. To improve the overview and automatically enrich relevant information, we developed a digital dashboard on behalf of our customer GETEC.
Digitalization affects us all. Surprisingly, however, we often encounter non-digitalized processes in ControlTech Engineering AG (CTE) projects. Production plants are automated in order to increase profitability and safety. However, printed information such as notes, shift schedules or deliveries hang in the control room for monitoring plant automation. Why? Digital solutions are not created in a quiet room. They are created in collaboration with all those involved. This is precisely where the expertise of ControlTech Engineering AG, which operates in the fields of automation, data management and industrial IT, comes into play.
CTE specialists automatically ensure greater safety and profitability of production facilities - and processes. In order for this to happen, IT specialists scrutinize processes - such as that of a magnetic board. Is it still up to date? What could a digital solution look like that is operated by employees via touchscreen and/or mouse and keyboard? Software development is always about more flexible configuration and a better display (dashboard) that enables intuitive operation. An interface to the production system is usually available. CTE specializes in custom tools: An existing interface in quasi-real time implements the real fill levels of the displayed tanks. Modular components are also important so that future expansions can be planned right from the start. In the aforementioned project with the magnetic board, for example, the application and display structure are to be designed in such a way that a digital display of the shift plan and the truck delivery plan will be possible in the future.
A preliminary project with concrete specifications is essential for success
The CTE always starts with a preliminary project - a so-called Quick Assessment - in which all relevant stakeholders are involved. The operational employees who will later work with the software are also important. Plant managers and, of course, the project manager are also involved in the preliminary project in order to define a binding specification. In the example of our customer GETEC, the offer for the digital magnetic board included two variants: the fat client and the web client solution. In addition, the decision-makers were able to put together the scope of version 1.0 from various options. This included, for example, the digital visualization of the buffer tanks with fill level display from the process control system and information on the contents of the tanks, as well as support in purchasing and providing the necessary hardware and software.
For perfect user-friendliness, a dashboard is needed that focuses on user experience with a good interface (UX/UI). A panel of people from the customer base was therefore defined at the start of the project, and the designs were reviewed and approved. An iterative project process with repeated involvement of the end users helped to involve all parties in the development process. With professional support in the UX area from soultank , the CTE specialists designed the final visualization and the front-end behavior of the dashboard step by step with a total of three on-site visits. Interviews and observations were used to create schematic representations (wireframes). The application behavior was simulated and presented. The requirements developed over the iteration phases. Specifications and content were constantly reviewed via meeting minutes and written involvement of the project management. Application development focused on the basic structure and the already known interfaces. Here too, functional requirements were defined over the iteration stages. Thanks to the detailed planning of the target infrastructure and hardware, in-house tests could be carried out on the final system. This in turn allowed exciting conclusions to be drawn in the final development phase.
Acceptance increases through collaboration
Software is not created in a quiet room, it is the result of good collaboration. In the end, the software users must understand and use it. ControlTech Engineering AG is aware of this responsibility. Involvement with testing and feedback rounds are part of the standard process. Appropriate influence platforms create clarity and acceptance. New and adapted requirements are developed. They are incorporated directly through shifts in effort or are earmarked for future enhancements. Reviews are also important at the end in order to revise the specifications. This update can be used to create further versions at a later date.
An iterative process for a customer-oriented solution
In the case of GETEC, the original ControlTech Engineering AG version, visualized according to industry standard ISA101, was revised again at the customer's request. "We wanted to integrate the GETEC logo and colors into the background of the visualization as a clear recognition of the company," explains Operations Manager Dr. Stefan Peterli. The final adjustments have now been implemented and the version has been successfully installed for customers. This is exactly how ControlTech Engineering works: in constructive dialogue - as standardized as possible, as individual as necessary .
The operations manager is also delighted: "I would like to thank them for their high level of professionalism throughout the entire project. The team understood our expectations precisely and always took our concerns into account. This was crucial for the successful commissioning of the new dashboard. With this tool, we are taking a big step towards digitalizing the factory. The dashboard has been equally well received by shift personnel, the foreman's office and plant management. On the one hand, this is because experienced employees from our company were involved in the development and the dashboard is therefore tailored precisely to our needs. Secondly, it offers intuitive user guidance and provides all relevant information at a glance."
Dr. Stefan Peterli continues: "The employees already want to implement further options, such as the display of the shift plan, weekly truck deliveries and the management of IBCs. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ControlTech Engineering and implementing these additional functions."
Looking back, it can be said that the good involvement of all stakeholders is of great importance. This results in a high level of acceptance among users. In the best case scenario, enthusiasm is generated in everyday use. This in turn is a breeding ground for new wishes, because suddenly there are more opportunities for optimization. The result is a win-win situation for everyone. Each project generates new knowledge: new insights into the project process, collaborations with new partner companies in specialist areas, new technical knowledge as well as experience and feedback in the software development process. This is how good cooperation works at all levels. This creates added value for everyone.
