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Industrial IoT Platforms – Proven in practice for customer portals alarm management Predictive Maintenance digital commissioning secure data access customer insights digital documentation product-as-a-service

Find out how companies such as CLAAS and KSG successfully use IoT platforms: as a customer portal in mechanical engineering, as an internal IIoT platform for production and logistics or for the digitalization of critical infrastructures. Discover tried-and-tested technologies, ready-to-use solutions and experienced partners.

Strong partners, strong solutions

IoT platform providers

The providers in our network offer IoT platforms that are used in real-world applications. These platforms stand for efficient data processing and cross-system integration.

A1 Digital Logo

A1 Digital

Data transmissionIndividual services and offerings

A1 Digital realises digitalization projects together with businesses: The focus is on industry-specific...

achtBytes GmbH Logo

achtBytes GmbH

Data preprocessing (Edge)Data visualization

achtBytes is a german corporate startup of the STEGO Group. It is a software company with the focus on...

ALD Vacuum Technologies GmbH Logo

ALD Vacuum Technologies GmbH

Data AcquisitionPredictive analytics

ALD Vacuum Technologies designs, engineers and produces advanced vacuum metallurgy, heat treatment and...

b.telligent Logo

b.telligent

Individual services and offeringsIT/OT integration

b.telligent is a technology-independent consultancy with a focus on optimizing digital and data-driven...

Cumulocity GmbH Logo

Cumulocity GmbH

IT/OT integrationData visualization

Cumulocity offers an enterprise-grade AIoT platform that connects & manages assets efficiently,...

Endress+Hauser Logo

Endress+Hauser

Data AcquisitionData visualization

Endress+Hauser is a leading supplier of products, solutions and services for industrial process...

ENLYZE GmbH Logo

ENLYZE GmbH

Data visualizationIT/OT integration

ENLYZE Shop Floor BI helps increase productivity in continuous manufacturing and make data-driven...

Exor International SpA Logo

Exor International SpA

Data visualizationIoT platform

EXOR International, an Italian company operating globally, has been designing, developing and...

HK.DIGITAL GmbH Logo

HK.DIGITAL GmbH

Individual services and offeringsData preprocessing (Edge)

HK.DIGITAL GmbH. Partner for digital business models and fast, effective ticket to digitalization:...

ifm-Unternehmensgruppe Logo

ifm-Unternehmensgruppe

Predictive analyticsData visualization

ifm electronic gmbh with headquarters in Essen develops, produces and distributes sensors, controls,...

igus GmbH Logo

igus GmbH

Data visualizationPredictive analytics

The world is in constant motion. And where movement happens, that's where we come in: improve what...

in.hub GmbH Logo

in.hub GmbH

Data preprocessing (Edge)Data visualization

in.hub GmbH is a specialist for condition monitoring in the industrial environment. The goal of in.hub...

Typical applications for IoT platforms in our network

Our network partners are already successfully implementing these digital services – as integrated components of their IoT platforms for customers.

Alarm Management & Predictive Alerts

Just-in-time fault messages instead of reactive maintenance. IoT sensors automatically detect critical deviations and trigger targeted service calls - before the downtime occurs. Proactive maintenance saves costs.

Predictive Maintenance instead of Reactive Service

Forecast maintenance needs instead of reacting. Machine learning analyzes operating data and identifies optimum maintenance times - for maximum uptime. Data-based decisions instead of unplanned downtime.

Asset Monitoring & Performance Dashboards

Continuous monitoring of your machines and systems via IoT sensors. Live dashboards show machine status, process data and performance KPIs - for data-based decisions and optimization.

External
Data Access

Controlled data sharing with customers, partners and service providers. Role-based access and standardized APIs for seamless system integration. Secure networking without data loss or security risks.

Customer Feedback & Customer Insights

User behavior and performance data become valuable customer insights. Optimize service offerings based on real usage data. Direct feedback for better product development and customer satisfaction.

Reporting, Digital Documentation

Digital maintenance logs, service reports and spare parts certificates automatically generated from IoT data. Compliance-ready and audit-proof. Paperless documentation for efficient processes and verification.

Digital commissioning

Configure and commission systems remotely. IoT platforms enable remote access to control systems - without on-site visits. Faster commissioning and reduced travel costs for service technicians.

product-as-a-service

From product sales to service subscriptions: IoT-based usage measurement enables pay-per-use, performance guarantees and new revenue streams. Customer benefits become measurable and billable.

Self-Service Customer Portals

Mechanical and plant engineering companies are bundling service, maintenance and product information in digital customer portals. Direct access to machine data, spare parts and support - available 24/7 for your customers.

How Much Is My Customer Willing to Pay – and for What?

Success factors for IoT platforms: Strategy, scaling and partnerships from the field.

Start With MVP Instead of Complete Solution

Successful companies work with pilot customers to develop lean MVPs with functions such as remote monitoring, ticketing and dashboards. This reduces development risk and enables early customer feedback to guide future improvements.

A/B Offers Instead of the Freemium Trap

Many platform providers specifically test the willingness to pay via clear value-added communication, simple A/B offers or direct interviews with users. This approach leads to quicker, more realistic pricing without the pitfalls of freemium models.

Independent but Aligned Teams

Successful organizations establish dedicated platform teams that focus on the digital product. These teams are coordinated with Service and Sales, but are organizationally independent of the hardware business for clear objectives.

Real Value Instead of Technical Features

The ROI of platform features is evaluated on the basis of specific usage data, service efficiency and cost savings for the customer. The key is to use data-driven arguments and make measurable added value visible for customers.

Practice-oriented. Tested & Up to date.

Practical examples from our network: How IoT platforms are used

Learn from concrete use cases of leading OEMs and machine builders from our network how IoT platforms work in practice and what results have actually been achieved.

What companies benefit from IoT platforms?

These user groups, target industries and areas of application are currently benefiting particularly strongly in our network:

Product Management, Digital Business Development,
CTOs, Head of Solutions
Manufacturer of Smart Equipment & Automation

Strategic objective: IoT platforms are increasingly being used as a strategic tool by manufacturers of intelligent machines, devices and automation solutions. The aim is to develop scalable digital services for remote monitoring, digital twins, condition monitoring and predictive maintenance.

What stands out: Companies that work closely with OEMs or operators are especially likely to develop new applications on a platform basis as co-creation projects. Platforms enable not just technical implementation, but also faster partner integration and direct market feedback.

Concrete application areas from our network:

Strategic focus: Modular IoT platforms for the further development of classic products into scalable, service-oriented solutions with a close customer focus.

Product development, software management, digital business development, CTOs, head of field services, customer support
Mechanical & Plant Engineering Companies and OEM Integrators

Strategic orientation: Mechanical and plant engineering companies use IoT platforms specifically to expand their service business. The demand for scalable platform solutions including value-added services for operation, maintenance and support is increasing, particularly among OEMs that sell machines internationally.

Business model innovation: IoT platforms are seen as enablers for new business models – from data-based services and modular upgrades to stronger customer loyalty via digital channels.

Practical examples from the community:

Co-creation approach: Development of service-centered business models in close cooperation with customers – particularly relevant for international OEMs with complex support requirements.

IT Departments, Smart City Teams,
Energy Sales, Technical Departments
Service Providers - Operators of Critical Infrastructures

Digitalization mandate: Energy suppliers, municipal utilities and municipal operators are systematically digitalizing their supply infrastructure – from electricity, water and district heating to transport networks. Digitalization managers rely on IoT platforms to serve internal and external stakeholders.

Technical requirements: Scalable, cloud-native platform solutions that integrate into existing ecosystems and meet high security and compliance standards. In the KRITIS environment, stable, proven solutions are crucial – not laboratory experiments.

Selection criteria: Verified projects with references from comparable functional areas such as energy distribution, water supply, LoRaWAN infrastructure or waste management.

Thematic specialization:

Proof of success: Proven technologies with documented success stories as an anchor point for technology selection.

IT/OT Leadership, Project Management, Digital Solution Architects,
Product Owner Connectivity/IoT, Head of Innovation, CDOs
End Customers - Digital Pioneers (cross-industry)

Dual strategy: Digital pioneers from a wide range of industries use industrial IoT platforms not only for internal process optimization (production, logistics, supply chain), but also actively create new business models for external customers, service providers and stakeholders.

Internal networking goals:

External monetization: Several companies use their platforms for external services – as independent subsidiaries or service companies. These platforms often become the nucleus of cross-cutting digital strategies that scale both internally and externally.

Regulatory relevance: Particularly important in industries with complex production, high quality requirements or regulatory specifications.

Which building blocks will make your IIoT project really successful?

Many IIoT projects fail not because of the idea, but because of the implementation: a lack of scalability, high operating costs and unclear requirements lead to expensive rework and a failed business case.

On our platform, you will find tried-and-tested technologies, best practices from real industry projects and the collective knowledge of our community. We show you how to avoid typical mistakes with the right technology stack – from data acquisition to AI evaluation – and how to set up your IIoT project economically and future-proof.

Discover how leading companies from our network successfully structure their projects – modular, interoperable and data-secure.

Data Acquisition

Data acquisition forms the solid foundation of your IoT application. Whether machine, operating or sensor data - accurate and reliable data acquisition enables precise analyses and data-based decisions. Modern solutions capture data directly at the machine, standardized and in real time.

Data Transmission

Reliable data transmission is essential for every IoT process. Choose between wired (e.g. Ethernet) and wireless technologies (e.g. 5G, LoRaWAN) based on your requirements in order to optimally combine stability and flexibility.

Data Preprocessing

The efficient preparation and pre-processing of your raw data ensures that it can be used immediately. Whether edge computing or local pre-processing - reduce the amount of data and significantly improve the performance of your IoT systems.

Data Standardization

Data standardization creates the basis for efficient, cross-manufacturer communication and consistent use of data throughout the entire life cycle. Whether through protocols such as OPC UA over MQTT for secure transmission or standardized product data and digital twins - your IIoT projects remain flexible, scalable and economical.

IT/OT Integration

The convergence of production technology (OT) and information technology (IT) enables you to achieve a transparent data flow without media disruptions. This allows you to eliminate data silos, speed up decision-making and optimize your operational processes in the long term.

IoT Platform

IoT platforms form the central nervous system of your digital infrastructure. As PaaS or SaaS solutions - for example in the form of customer portals for manufacturers - they store, visualize and manage IoT data. As a result, you always have a comprehensive overview of your processes and can make well-founded, data-based decisions.

Data Security

Protecting sensitive industrial and process data is a top priority. Modern security concepts ensure that your data is transmitted and stored in encrypted form and that your systems always comply with current regulatory requirements.

Device Management

Efficient management of networked IoT devices is a key component of successful digitalization strategies. From commissioning and updates to decommissioning - structured device management reduces operating costs and significantly increases the security of your IoT infrastructure.

Data Science & Analytics

Visualized data enables faster and more precise decisions in your company. Modern dashboards and graphical presentations transform complex data streams into clear, real-time displays and create transparency at all levels of the company.

Data Analysis and Evaluation

The systematic analysis of your IoT data uncovers hidden correlations and identifies optimization potential in your processes. From descriptive statistics to complex analysis procedures - gain valuable insights from your operational data for well-founded business decisions.

Data Analysis with ML & AI

Data analysis is the basis for data-driven IIoT applications - from process optimization to AI-supported predictions. While traditional evaluations work with fixed rules, AI algorithms independently recognize patterns and anomalies - for predictive maintenance or quality forecasts, for example. Both approaches complement each other and optimize the potential of your IoT data.

Use Case Apps

Industry-specific IoT applications address concrete challenges with preconfigured functionalities. From production optimization to asset tracking — these specialized solutions offer rapid time-to-value and can be flexibly adapted to individual requirements.

What specific functions does an IoT platform perform?

Device Management

Integration & APIs

Data Science & Analytics

Analytics & AI

Data Lake & Storage

Security

Advantages of IoT platforms for OEMs and machine manufacturers

Whether machine manufacturers or operators – IoT platforms create the basis for new services, efficient processes and sustainable digitalization. Find out how equipment manufacturers and their customers benefit from IoT solutions.

Offering scalable digital services

Manage remote maintenance, monitoring or digital twins centrally and provide them as standardized added value. Create new revenue streams through service subscriptions.

Product improvement through field data

Findings from operations help to improve quality and accelerate development. Receive data-based product optimization directly from the customer.

Strengthen customer retention

Predictive maintenance and automated alerts enable early detection of failures. Proactive maintenance instead of reactive repairs.

Compliance & Documentation

Automatic logging and compliance reports fulfill regulatory requirements. Seamless documentation for audits and certifications.

Benefits of IoT platforms for operators and end customers

Monitor statuses, utilization and performance centrally – even across locations. IoT platforms create complete transparency across your production environment.

Security & Integration

IoT platforms can be securely integrated into existing IT/OT structures - with clear roles and access concepts for everyone involved.

Increasing
efficiency

Data-based optimizations improve processes and reduce operating costs. Automated workflows sustainably increase productivity.

Reducing downtimes

Digital interfaces create permanent contact with the customer - including support, self-service and value-added services. Establish long-term partnerships.

Increasing operating efficiency

Predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring reduce downtimes and optimize maintenance cycles. Achieve higher system availability for all parties involved.

Is it still worth building your own IoT platform?

The decision as to whether to develop an IoT platform yourself (“make”), purchase an existing solution (“buy”) or combine the two is a key strategic decision. It has a long-term impact on costs, control and flexibility. Companies are faced with the question: “Do we want to set everything up ourselves – or would it be better to work with an experienced partner?

Make: Full control, more effort and responsibility

Developing your own solution

Suitable for companies with specific requirements, existing IT know-how and resources for long-term in-house development. This strategy enables complete control over all aspects of the IoT platform – from architecture to data management.

ADVANTAGES:
  • Maximum flexibility: Every function can be developed exactly according to your requirements
  • Complete data control: All data remains within your system, no external dependency
  • No vendor lock-in risks: Independence from third-party providers and their roadmaps
  • Unique differentiation: Development of proprietary features as a competitive advantage
  • Long-term cost optimization: No ongoing license fees after initial investment
  • Full IP control: All developed technologies belong to your company
CHALLENGES:
  • Significant development effort: Months to years for basic functionalities
  • High initial investments: Development teams, infrastructure, and testing environments
  • Ongoing maintenance costs: Updates, security patches, and bug fixes handled internally
  • Expert knowledge required: Specialized IoT, cloud, and security expertise necessary
  • Longer time-to-market: Delayed market entry due to development time
  • Scalability risks: Own infrastructure must be designed for growth


Buy: Start faster with low risk and effort

Using an established solution

Suitable for companies that want to achieve results quickly and rely on proven, scalable technologies. This strategy makes it possible to focus on the core business while benefiting from years of platform expertise.

ADVANTAGES:
  • Fast implementation: Ready for use within a few weeks to months
  • Proven, scalable technologies: Platform components tested millions of times
  • Lower development costs: No need for in-house teams for core functionalities
  • Continuous updates: Automatic security updates and new features
  • Professional support: 24/7 support and expertise from the platform provider
  • Instant scalability: Cloud-native architectures for global growth
  • Compliance & certifications: Already certified for GDPR, ISO27001, and industry-specific standards
CHALLENGES:
  • Limited customizability: Features must fit the platform architecture
  • Vendor dependency: Roadmap and pricing are externally determined
  • Potential integration complexity: Existing systems may need adaptation
  • Ongoing license costs: Monthly/yearly fees per user or device
  • Shared infrastructure: Multi-tenant environments with less control
  • Limited differentiation: Similar features available to competitors
Podcast Insights

Expert voices from IoT practice

Authentic insights from equipment manufacturers and platform experts – straight from our IoT Use Case podcast discussions.

IaaS, PaaS, or SaaS – explained with real-world examples!

Which IoT platform suits your requirements?

To find the right IoT platform, we look at the different service models of our partners. Almost all major providers (Azure, AWS, Cumulocity, SAP) cover all three layers – the functional perspective is crucial.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

IaaS provides the technical basis for IoT platforms - computing power, networks and storage for cloud or on-premises operation.

Core Functions:

  • Storage Layer & Hosting: Data centers, servers, and storage for platform operation
  • Edge Runtime: Local data processing close to machines
  • Data Lake: Cost-efficient long-term storage for large data volumes

Example Products:

  • Azure IoT Edge, thin-edge.io
  • AWS IoT SiteWise
  • AWS S3, Azure Data Lake
  • Cumulocity DataHub

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

PaaS is aimed at developers who want to implement IoT use cases individually. It provides all necessary building blocks from device management to system integration.

Core Functions:

  • Device Management: Secure management from sensors to millions of IoT assets
  • Digital Twin Layer: Digital twins for machines and equipment
  • Integration & APIs: Connectivity to external systems and event streaming

Example Products:

  • Azure IoT Hub
  • Cumulocity IoT Device Management
  • Device Update for IoT Hub
  • Cumulocity Digital Twin Manager
  • AWS IoT TwinMaker, Azure Digital Twins
  • Cumulocity Apama
  • Custom IT service provider solutions

Software as a Service (SaaS)

SaaS is designed for users who want to use ready-made IoT solutions without developing their own. Instantly available via web interface.

Core Functions:

  • Dashboards & Visualization: Intuitive display of sensor data and KPIs
  • Real-Time Analytics: Pre-built modules for predictive maintenance and energy analysis
  • No-Code Applications: Drag & drop dashboard creation without coding

Example Products:

  • Cumulocity Cockpit
  • Mendix Low-Code Platform
  • Azure IoT Central
  • AWS IoT Analytics
  • Azure Time Series Insights
  • Custom dashboards by IT service providers
Network, exchange ideas, benefit.

Implementing IIoT projects together - with field- proven solutions

Our community brings together industry experts who have already implemented successful IIoT projects – openly, practically and on an equal footing. Gain insights into how other companies have solved challenges, share your use cases and discover new ideas and concrete solutions for your business.

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Use Cases

Your use case has already been solved — see for yourself!

Every innovation starts with an idea. Discover proven use cases that support your digital transformation — from predictive maintenance to worker safety.

Condition Monitoring

Real-time monitoring of machine and sensor data to reduce downtime.

Predictive Maintenance

Data-driven maintenance to detect failures early and cut costs.

Track & Trace

Seamless tracking of assets and material flows in production and logistics.

Digital Documentation

Automated collection and management of production and operational data.

Would you like to find out more about data acquisition?

Whether you need initial insights, specific questions or concrete use cases – we can help you! Contact us for individual consultation and solutions.

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