Hilti
Building a new business model for construction
"We passionately create enthusiastic customers and build a better future" says Hilti, the Liechtenstein-based construction services business, which is built around innovation, and direct customer relationships. Some 32,000 employees around the world, in more than 120 countries, contribute to making work on construction sites simpler, faster, and safer while inspiring customers every single day. With products, system solutions, software, and services that provide clear added value.
Hilti AG develops, manufactures, and markets products for the construction, building maintenance, energy and manufacturing industries, mainly to the professional end-user. It concentrates mainly on anchoring systems, fire protection systems, installation systems, measuring and detection tools (such as laser levels, range meters and line lasers), power tools (such as hammer drills, demolition hammers, diamond drills, cordless electric drills, heavy angle drills, power saws) and related software and services
Hilti has transformed the way in which it works directly with its construction customers by embracing a digital mindset to its tools, systems, and services. This includes a new rental-based business model, and asset management system.
- Digital Tools and Services: Hilti offers a range of digital tools and services to support construction professionals. This includes software solutions for design and planning, project management, and asset management. These digital tools help streamline processes, improve collaboration, and enhance productivity on construction sites.
- Hilti Connect: Hilti Connect is a cloud-based platform that provides construction professionals with real-time access to information about their Hilti tools and equipment. It allows users to track the location of tools, monitor usage, schedule maintenance, and receive notifications about tool status and performance. This digital platform helps optimize tool management, reduce downtime, and improve efficiency.
- ON!Track Asset Management System: Hilti’s ON!Track is an asset management system that enables construction companies to track and manage their assets, including tools, equipment, and consumables. It uses barcoding and RFID technology to monitor asset usage, location, and maintenance history. This digital solution helps prevent loss, optimize inventory, and ensure the availability of the right tools at the right time.
- Digital Training and Education: Hilti provides digital training and education programs to empower construction professionals with knowledge and skills. This includes online training modules, virtual reality (VR) training simulations, and webinars. These digital learning tools enable flexible and accessible training, ensuring that professionals stay up to date with the latest techniques and best practices.
- Hilti Mobile Apps: Hilti offers a range of mobile apps that provide access to product information, technical data, and installation instructions. These apps also enable users to place orders, track deliveries, and access customer support. Mobile apps from Hilti enhance convenience, speed up processes, and support on-site decision-making.
- Smart Construction Solutions: Hilti integrates smart construction solutions into its product offerings. For example, Hilti’s PROFIS Engineering software allows engineers to design and analyze connections in steel structures efficiently. It provides accurate calculations, reduces design time, and ensures compliance with codes and standards.
- Internet of Things (IoT) and Connectivity: Hilti incorporates IoT capabilities into its products, enabling them to collect and transmit data. For instance, some Hilti tools can communicate usage data to the Hilti Connect platform, providing insights into tool performance and usage patterns. This data-driven approach helps optimize maintenance, improve tool performance, and enhance productivity.
Hilti “Fleet Management” rental service allows customers to access a wide range of Hilti tools and equipment on a short-term basis, providing flexibility and cost-effectiveness for construction projects. It includes:
- Tool Selection: Hilti offers a comprehensive selection of tools and equipment for rent, including power tools, drilling and demolition equipment, anchoring systems, laser measuring devices, and more. They cater to various construction needs, allowing customers to rent the specific tools required for their projects.
- Flexible Rental Periods: Hilti Rental provides flexible rental periods, allowing customers to rent tools for as long as they need them. Whether it’s a few days, weeks, or months, customers can customize the rental duration based on their project timeline and requirements.
- Well-Maintained Equipment: Hilti ensures that their rental equipment is well-maintained and in good working condition. The tools undergo regular inspections and servicing to ensure their reliability and performance. This helps customers avoid downtime due to equipment malfunctions.
- On-Time Delivery and Pickup: Hilti strives to provide a smooth rental experience by offering on-time delivery and pickup services. They coordinate with customers to arrange the delivery of rented tools to the desired location and promptly collect them once the rental period is complete.
- Training and Support: Hilti offers training and support for customers renting their tools. They provide guidance on tool operation, safety procedures, and proper maintenance. This helps customers maximize the effectiveness of the rented equipment and ensures safe usage on the job site.
- Transparent Pricing: Hilti provides transparent pricing for their rental services. They offer competitive rates based on the rental period and the specific tools or equipment being rented. Customers can get a clear understanding of the costs involved and make informed decisions.
Another digital initiatives is the ON!Track asset management system, a cloud-based software solution that enables construction companies to effectively track and manage their assets, including tools, equipment, and consumables, throughout their lifecycle. It includes:
- Asset Tracking and Management: ON!Track provides construction companies with a centralized platform to track and manage their assets. Each asset is tagged with a unique barcode or RFID tag, allowing for easy identification and monitoring. The system captures important asset information such as location, maintenance history, and calibration status, providing real-time visibility into asset utilization and maintenance requirements.
- Inventory Optimization: The ON!Track system helps construction companies optimize their inventory by providing accurate and up-to-date information on asset usage and availability. Companies can avoid overstocking or understocking tools and materials, leading to improved cost control and increased productivity. The system also sends notifications for maintenance or calibration requirements, ensuring that assets are properly maintained for optimal performance.
- Tool Management and Theft Prevention: ON!Track helps prevent tool loss and theft through enhanced tracking capabilities. Construction companies can monitor the movement of tools across job sites and receive alerts if tools are moved without authorization. This helps mitigate the risk of asset loss, reduces replacement costs, and enhances overall security.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The digitalization of asset management with ON!Track enables data-driven decision making for construction companies. The system generates comprehensive reports and analytics on asset utilization, maintenance costs, and productivity. This information empowers companies to make informed decisions about resource allocation, equipment investment, and process improvements.
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Hilti’s ON!Track system goes beyond asset management by providing additional features that enhance the customer experience. Customers can access their asset information, track orders, and request service and repairs through a user-friendly web portal or mobile app. This streamlines communication, improves customer satisfaction, and fosters long-term partnerships.
Hilti’s implementation of the ON!Track asset management system demonstrates their commitment to digitalization and providing innovative solutions to the construction industry. By leveraging digital technologies, Hilti has enabled construction companies to streamline their asset management processes, optimize inventory, prevent theft, and make data-driven decisions for improved productivity and profitability.