Connected homes: looking for intelligent solutions with real added value

An intersectoral summit

At the last ISH 2019 trade fair in Frankfurt, the Intelligent Living Summit kicked off a regular and cross-functional discussion between sectors, on the question of the digitization of living spaces, and the digital transformation of companies and industries .

At the Intelligent Living Summit, Michael Rauterkus, CEO of GROHE, Axel Kniehl, Executive Director of Miele - Marketing and Sales, and Max Viessmann, Co-CEO of Viessmann, said: "Customers are no longer interested in viewing connected devices as toys, but are increasingly looking for solutions with real added value. The Intelligent Living Summit kicked off a regular cross-sector discussion on the issue of significant digitization in living spaces and digital transformation in businesses and industries. "

Develop connected solutions with real added value

"Together, we form a great team because we all aspire to a more ambitious objective: to develop new and revolutionary solutions for the living spaces of future generations"said Max Viessmann. "For Viessmann, reducing CO2 emissions is our top priority." By replacing a heating system with a modern Viessmann solution, the CO2 balance of the home is reduced by an average of one tonne per year. More environmental protection and more comfort - the family company Viessmann succeeds in moving from a manufacturer of pure heating technology to a supplier of integrated solutions in close partnership with traditional craftsmanship.

"The future of 'Intelligent Living' is not only about developing exceptional products, but also about creating inspiring experiences for users. Digitization is making an indispensable contribution to this goal"said Axel Kniehl, CEO of Miele. For example, Miele launched a Dialog oven that can be connected to recipe databases or to a gourmet delivery service. And on the new generation 7000 ovens, a camera provides true color images in HD quality on a smartphone or tablet. With a single click, users can check their dish via their screen and readjust the cooking process. "For new products and services, the focus should be on customer benefits and a simple application should be the ultimate goal. The software on all new devices can be fully updated via remote service, so that new functions can be added throughout the service life. Proven programs can therefore be constantly improved. "

"At the ISH show two years ago, we launched our intelligent water safety system, GROHE Sense, to prevent water damage, and we have experienced a steep learning curve since then. business model "said Michael Rauterkus. "Initially, we were confident that our new product would be very popular with end users. At the same time, we are working with several insurance companies to supply devices to thousands of customers, thereby reducing the high cost of water damage. " During this time, the CEO of GROHE devotes as much time to GROHE's digital activities as to traditional areas of activity, thus acquiring a very personal vision: "Listening is crucial - it allows you to open up to new ideas, experiences or opinions".

Driving digital transformation in business

Christoph Keese, CEO of Axel Springer hy GmbH, stressed the importance of developing a digitization strategy and thinking about the future. "Digitization has completely transformed entire industries. Axel Springer, for example, now derives around 80% of its profits from its digital business." Those wishing to participate in future markets have three options: create new disruptive industries or companies that may challenge their original core business, form new partnerships or invest in existing companies. "Go digital and stay optimistic, the possibilities offered by digitization are greater than its risks", concluded Christoph Keese. "Don't rely too much on your own experience, but identify and find people who can make a difference."

Achim Berg, president of Bitkom and moderator of GROHE, from the round table of Miele and Viessmann, said: "In my experience, the digital transformation of a company can only be driven by its CEO. It cannot be delegated to either the digital manager or the CFO" According to him, digitization is an exponential development: If the pace of the business is not changed, serious problems will be encountered at the latest in the coming years. According to him, open platforms, such as the Intelligent Living Summit, are one of the keys to success.