FESTO AG & Co. KG
Technical knowledge database with thesaurus in intra- and internet
The Problem:
Decades of accumulated corporate knowledge of technologies, products and solutions is deposited
in databases, archives, published documents and among experts in development, design and sales.
Increasingly complex customer problems demand increasingly quick ideal technical and
cost-efficient proposal solutions world-wide in order to be able to survive in international competition.
ORISA was given the job of developing a computer-assisted application designed to make
the whole company know-how for all FESTO sales employees available anywhere, anytime,
in the same up-to-the minute quality. Customers were to be given access to it at a later point as well.
The Solution:
Due to its complexity, the uncertainty of the implementation period, costs and subsequent maintenance,
the project was planned in two steps. The study demonstrated the technical realization of concepts
and its feasibility by creating a prototype. In addition to demonstrating the technical implementation,
and the representation for the subsequent user the development team of the Executive Committee
was able to submit a detailed cost/benefit analysis. Both led to the decision to complete the
project in two phases.
At the core is a knowledge database containing all available documents, such as technical descriptions,
plans, drafts and FESTO hotline information. The knowledge database was implemented with ORISAbase.
The documents were indexed and can be searched by both key word and full text searches.
The knowledge database was preloaded with the technical glossary on pneumatics and FESTO-specific
terminology in order to permit synonym or subject term searches. The system platform is the Internet.
The Advantages:
Knowledge is an important productivity factor - volatile, not always available, costly and
time-consuming to replace, and difficult to distribute.
Considering all this, the central collection, storage and maintenance of FESTO knowledge
and expertise, namely into a current knowledge database, is already a significant benefit.
The Internet adds control and quick access standards to this knowledge databank.
Competitive edge is achieved through shortened processing times, fewer queries and superior
quote production quality.
