«Abacus is our digital tool for simpler processes.»
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What was the deciding factor for Rotor Lips AG in choosing Abacus software?
Manuel Hartmann: Our previous software no longer met our requirements, which meant we were unable to further develop our processes. Abacus was already a well-known name to us, was recommended both internally and externally, and was already being used successfully by one of our sister companies. During the evaluation process, Abacus proved to be the best fit for our requirements.
Which Abacus modules do you use today?
MH: Today, we work with a wide range of areas: from Order Processing, Purchasing, Stock, Production Planning and Control, CRM, E-Business, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Financial Accounting to Service Management. We manage our payroll externally, but it is also based on Abacus.
Which processes does the Abacus software noticeably optimise?
MH: One major step was the digitalisation of processes. This includes invoice approval, goods receipt and traceability As a result, we save an enormous amount of time, reduce paper consumption, and in-crease transparency—especially in the warehouse, logistics, and accounting.
«Transparent processes from the warehouse to service deployment are a huge benefit.»
Manuel Hartmann, Chairman of the Executive Board, Rotor Lips AG
Is there an example where you particularly feel the benefits of the Abacus solution?
MH: The set-up process is a good example: Previously, we worked with lists and multiple feedback loops, which led to long processing times and a high susceptibility to errors. Today, this process runs digitally via mobile devices. This has significantly shortened throughput times, reduced the error rate, and provided a better overview of the entire process.
Our service business is now also fully digitalised. Where many things used to be organised by tele-phone or on paper, repair devices are now recorded directly in Abacus Service Management. Orders are automatically assigned to the responsible technicians and prioritised. All relevant information is availa-ble centrally —both for internal repairs and on-site work at customers’ premises. This gives us a clear overview of several thousand service cases at all times.
What role does Abacus play in your warehouse management?
MH: We completely restructured our warehouse. Each shelf was numbered and labelled with QR codes, and the entire warehouse structure was digitally mapped with main and secondary warehouses. Since then, all stock movements have been traceable, stocktaking can be carried out on a rolling basis, and transparency has increased significantly. The set-up process also benefits directly from this, as we can now set clear priorities, cover shorter distances, and experience significantly fewer errors.
How did the introduction of the software go?
MH: The introduction went very smoothly. Our partner, InterBit AG, provided close support and excel-lent assistance.
Initially, we adopted existing processes to bring employees on board, and then developed them further in a targeted way. Looking back, the launch in January 2022 was a complete success—especially thanks to the strong project support.
«Abacus is to us what our kitchen appliances are to professionals in the kitchen—an essential tool for working more efficiently.»
What do you particularly appreciate about your daily work with Abacus?
MH: The flexibility and depth of the solution. Abacus accompanies us through the entire business pro-cess - from ordering to warehousing, production, dispatch and service. We benefit from clear struc-tures, automated processes and a high level of transparency. We can now also enter orders directly while travelling, for example at trade fairs. That would have been unthinkable before.
What developments are you currently planning?
MH: We plan to implement automatic reordering based on sales data in Service Management, and digi-tal maintenance contracts are also in preparation. Further topics include the introduction of Time Re-cording and enhancements to CRM with Activity Management.
Would you recommend Abacus as a complete solution for a manufacturing and trading company?
MH: Absolutely. Abacus is an integrated, supportive solution that allows us to work much more efficient-ly.
About Manuel Hartmann
Manuel Hartmann began his career at Rotor Lips AG over 20 years ago as a design engineer and is now Chairman of the Executive Board and Head of Operations. He was part of the core team for the ERP changeover to Abacus in 2022. With his enthusiasm for technology, processes, and people—as well as his further training as a qualified technician in business processes—he is driving digitalisation at the company in a targeted way.
About Rotor Lips AG
Rotor Lips AG, based in Uetendorf near Thun, is a Swiss company that has been developing, producing and selling machines for industrial food processing for many years. The robust appliances are used in catering establishments, commercial kitchens, hospitals, and bakeries. With around 40 employees, Rotor Lips is part of the family-run Rotag Group. Together with its international sister companies, the company supplies customers in over 40 countries
