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News

05.08.2010

Bauerfeind AG Implements Web Dynpro Solution from target Idea Management in May 2010

The use of target Idea Management is the technical foundation for a successful decentralized idea management system. 

About Bauerfeind
Bauerfeind AG is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of medical supplies, including bandages, orthotics, compression stockings, and orthopedic inserts, contributing to the preservation and recovery of heath with its product and treatment concepts.

Bauerfeind combines decades of learned expertise in technology and manufacturing with the power of innovation – and the traditions of a midsize family-led company with global scope. From the beginning, the professional experts at Bauerfeind have worked closely together with doctors, researchers, and software engineers. The result: patented and award-winning products and services, with “Made in Germany” quality.

Idea Management at Bauerfeind
Bauerfeind believes in the creativity and know-how of all its employees for its idea management program. Each idea is sent directly to management and is quickly and easily processed and completed.

The new idea management program that began in 2008 also marked the start for idea management software. Bauerfeind selected the target Idea Management solution for its extensive adaptability and 100% integration in its installed SAP software.

From the implementation of idea management in mid-2008 to April 2010, more than 600 ideas have been submitted from 980 employees in the company’s Zeulenroda and Remscheid locations. On average, 40 – 50% of all ideas has been implemented.

Update to Web Dynpro for ABAP Solution

Bauerfeind has been using the Web Dynpro for ABAP (WD4A) solution from target Idea Management since May 2010. Standard roles were adapted to Bauerfeind’s requirements so that the process was optimized. With the WD4A solution, the graphical interfaces and layout were improved, which has been very well received by employees. Furthermore, the idea portal is well integrated in the company intranet.

The upgrade to the Web Dynpro for ABAP solution was tied to a comprehensive internal campaign that generated extremely positive feedback from both management and employees alike. The upgrade focused on the development of an intuitive process for handling ideas, so that managers got the best and most support possible along the way. The buttons available in each processing step show the processors which questions they must answer. As a result, a powerful decentralization of idea processing has been realized. 

New functions were particularly welcome at Bauerfeind; for example, the ability to set up deputies responsible for processing ideas on behalf of management. In addition, persons responsible can now ask their peers for an opinion. These peer “consultants” then make a recommendation to implement the idea or advise it be rejected. This function is particularly valuable at Bauerfeind because various departments are involved in many of the ideas. The need for internal interconnection is also critical.

target Idea Management  is the foundation for the successful decentralized idea management system at Bauerfeind. From the very beginning, there was no need to capture idea information in complicated lists. Instead, with one click, all details on an idea are available. As a result, target Idea Management can function as an internal knowledge management system in the long term.

The relatively new idea management system at Bauerfeind AG will be integrated even further into daily business in the near future. One way is to integrate individual reporting for managers in the company portal which will provide them a quick overview of idea management activities in their areas of responsibility.

Isabel Fischer, idea manager at Bauerfeind AG, views the implemented solution as follows: “For us, the SAP software integration and the target Idea Management link to SAP NetWeaver Business Warehouse is especially beneficial. At our fingertips, we have access to all evaluations relevant to the success of idea management at  Bauerfeind AG, as well as a quick overview of ideas in process. In this way, the idea team can provide targeted support to our management.”