In the “FiR Service Insights” series, Thorsten Theeuwen addresses the question “Are digital business models successful in mechanical and plant engineering?”
Success factors of digital business models for the mechanical and plant engineering
How can machine and plant manufacturers successfully design digital business models? Four key areas of action are identified:
- Smart Machines: Networked machines form the basis. They collect and process data, create transparency, and enable new digital services.
- Service Excellence: Data-driven maintenance, remote support, and optimized service processes create measurable added value for customers and providers.
- Digital Products: Softwarelösungen und Plattformangebote zur Erweiterung des Funktionsumfangs physischer Maschinen und zur Erschließung neuer Umsatzpotenziale.
- Subscription businessPay-per-use models or “equipment-as-a-service” strengthen long-term customer relationships and open up recurring revenue streams.
In addition, change management and ambidexterity are crucial: companies must retain existing product expertise while developing new digital business models. Data security is equally important in order to build trust among customers and secure the basis for digital value creation.
This is the sixth of the Webinar series, in which employees of the FIR at the RWTH Aachen explore the possibilities of AI in the service sector.
When: Tuesday, 18.11.2025, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Online
Please register by November 17th, 2025!
Further dates in the series:
14.10.: AI in service
21.10.: Business models in transition
28.10.: AI-supported knowledge management
04.11.: Green Service Business
11.11.: Spare parts logistics of tomorrow
18.11.: Success factors for digital business models
25.11.: From closing commission to customer development
02.12.: Service Level Agreements
08.12.: Mehr als nur Service
16.12.: Digitales Dienstleistungsportfolio
tbc.
