Bayer optimizes shift operations at its Switzerland plant with AI-empowered software solution Shiftconnector® by eschbach

Bad Säckingen - October 30, 2023 – Bayer opts for digitalized shift operations with Shiftconnector^®, an enterprise platform from software developer eschbach. In a successfully implemented pilot project, the company elevated its information management to a new level by integrating the new AI-based module Smart Search into Shiftconnector. This leverages process knowledge, some dating back years in the past, to help shift teams make efficient decisions.

Bayer stands tall with over 101,000 employees in 83 countries worldwide, working to find solutions to the essential challenges of an ever-growing and aging global population. With a pilot project to integrate AI into the Shiftconnector software solution, the division Bayer Crop Science recently increased efficiency in shift operations at its plant in Muttenz (Switzerland).

Bayer's innovative information management system is designed to enable the company to continuously improve its processes while making it easier for employees to perform their daily work. The integration of AI-based modules in Shiftconnector ensures that process-relevant information and data sets can be used more efficiently. Previously, considerable time was spent researching physically filed information and data records in office tools. Today, the company benefits not only from the orderly consolidation of the process landscape, but also from the mapping of past problem solutions. The new Smart Search function provides a quick search for similar past events and thus significantly supports decision-making processes. In addition to the time-saving benefits for teams, errors can be quickly corrected or even avoided because of relevant background information.

Bayer uses Shiftconnector as the communication and database tool in shift operations. The enterprise platform networks the workforce operating in a 3-shift model, enabling employees to keep records of know-how, control processes, and exchange relevant background information in real time. This makes information available precisely and at any time in just one single source of truth, which makes the exchange of information between day and night shifts fast and transparent.

At Bayer in Muttenz, the knowledge of experienced employees is no longer lost when they leave the company or retire. "Knowledge transfer is a big issue in shift operations. Shift operation means 24/7 production, 24/7 data. Smart Search, which we integrated into Shiftconnector as a new tool, helps us actually generate knowledge from this data, which we can then use to meet our environmental, energy and production goals," explains Heskamp, Head of Site Operational Excellence at Bayer Muttenz. With Smart Search, shift teams have the information in a transparent and consistent manner to meet strict audit compliance regulations in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Digital networking in shift operations is necessary for employers to offer future employees an interesting workplace. Bayer is thus setting an example in the age of skills shortages and providing a progressive and safe working environment for its employees.