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Case Study: High-Tech Manufacturing

Carl Zeiss AG:
A global rhythm for worldwide precision

How ZEISS used Smartsheet to build a digital operational heartbeat that connects quality standards from Oberkochen to Shanghai in real time.

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In video

Carl Zeiss AG: Global Precision with Smartsheet

The challenge

When excellence is not scalable

“Precision” is in ZEISS’s DNA. But before the transformation, the teams faced a classic challenge: the link between headquarters’ strategy and execution on the shop floor had been severed.

01

Lack of transparency: Status updates were often already out of date by the time they reached management. Without real-time data, precise control was virtually impossible.

02

Manual effort: Project managers spent valuable time on the tedious task of collecting data instead of focusing on the strategic management of projects.

03

Inconsistency: Each facility used isolated templates and processes. Without common standards, a global comparison of quality was virtually impossible.

The solution

From a local factory to a global standard

The transformation at ZEISS was not only technical in nature. It changed the way collaboration is conceived. These are the three pillars of success:

Time to action

When data flows in real time, reactive reporting becomes proactive control. Management no longer waits for outdated monthly reports, but makes decisions based on the current reality.

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One Global Standard

At ZEISS, quality is non-negotiable. Through Blueprints, Smartsheet ensures that processes in Shanghai run just as smoothly as they do in Oberkochen. Consistent standards eliminate deviations immediately.

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High user adoption

Even the best software is useless if no one knows how to use it. Thanks to the familiar spreadsheet interface, shop floor employees and engineers were able to get to work right away without months of IT training.

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The result

Measurable Transformation

Your contact person

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Nico Röpnack

Nico Röpnack

Founder & Managing Director, Lighthouse Consultings

Answers for decision-makers

What Decision-Makers Need to Know

The questions that operations managers most frequently ask us before a project like the one at ZEISS.

Do we already need to be using Smartsheet?
No. We can build on existing Smartsheet environments or start from scratch. If you’re currently working with Excel pivot tables or scattered spreadsheets, we’ll take the data structure and seamlessly migrate it to a Smartsheet solution that your team can then maintain on their own.
What do you use n8n and automation for?
n8n connects the systems that currently require manual data transfer—such as Smartsheet, HubSpot, email, and ERP. Recurring tasks like status updates, notifications, and reports then run automatically in the background, rather than taking up someone’s time every day.
How do you approach the topic of AI, and does it make sense for small and medium-sized businesses in the DACH region?
We use AI specifically where it provides a measurable benefit—such as in classification, forecasting, or decision support—rather than as an end in itself. At FEW Automotive, we’ve used it to replace manual analyses that used to take days to complete. Every solution remains transparent and manageable for your team.
What are the regulations regarding data protection and the GDPR?
Data protection is an integral part of every project, not an afterthought. We clarify at the outset what data will be processed and where it is stored, enter into a data processing agreement if necessary, and prioritize components that process data within the EU. Sensitive data is only used where it is legally and contractually well-protected.
How long does a project take, and how much does it cost?
A first functional version is usually ready within a few weeks, and many projects begin with a clearly defined pilot. The investment required depends on the scope and level of integration. During a brief initial consultation, we’ll assess the effort and benefits for your specific situation before you make a commitment.

Related Solutions

ReferencePalfingerHow a mechanical engineering company uses Smartsheet to centrally manage over 450 projects. SolutionDigital Obeya & KPI ManagementA global rhythm: real-time visibility across all locations. SolutionEngineering Change ManagementManaging change in a structured way, from Oberkochen to Shanghai.

Next step

Global standards—for your processes, too .

Schedule an appointment right away—it’s free and there’s no obligation. We’ll discuss where your greatest opportunities lie and how we can help you capitalize on them.

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