Efficient process digitization at Geobrugg with Microsoft 365

Future-proof architecture and high user acceptance

Together with Online Consulting AG, Geobrugg has successfully digitized a number of complex business processes. The aim was to replace manual workflows and historically evolved processes with transparent, structured and user-friendly workflows. The focus was not only on efficiency and automation, but also on high user acceptance and a future-proof architecture that can be flexibly expanded.

Geobrugg is a leading global provider of protection solutions for people and infrastructure. For over 70 years, it has been developing and producing high-strength steel wire mesh for protection against natural hazards such as rockfall, debris flows and avalanches. Its solutions are also used in tunnel construction, mining, motor sports, coastal protection and special industrial applications. With over 500 employees worldwide, production facilities on all continents and projects in over 50 countries, Geobrugg stands for proximity to its customers, innovative strength and the highest safety standards.

The digitalization project created the basis for standardized, system-supported handling of processes, from order entry to investment approval. At the same time, a modern and intuitive user interface was developed to provide targeted support for all those involved in the process.

The solution

The following central business processes were successfully digitized as part of the project:

• Internal Sales Order: Structured entry and release of sales orders via a central form with automated forwarding to the responsible departments
• Deviation report: Reporting and tracking of deviations, including escalation logic and complete documentation
• Investment Proposal: Digital approval process for investments with clear decision history and systematic filing
• Staff Changes: Management of personnel changes such as new hires and departures, including distribution of tasks to subsidiaries
• Item Creation: Standardized process for creating new items with mandatory fields, central data storage and validations
• Item Change: Change process with comment function, version history and automatic notifications

The solution was technologically implemented using Microsoft 365 tools:

• PowerApps: A user-friendly interface was created for recording and viewing data
• SharePoint Online: Storage and organization of data via structured lists as well as automatic generation of folders and document structures per process instance
• PowerAutomate: Mapping of complex process logics, from approvals to reminders and escalations
• Azure Functions: For serverless automations such as task validations and JSON-based handovers between systems

How Geobrugg benefits from the new solution

Clear processes and responsibilities
The digitized processes are now clearly defined, from input to approval. This reduces queries and simplifies day-to-day work.

Automated approvals
decisions are triggered based on rules, which saves time and increases transparency at the same time.

Traceability and data quality
All steps are documented and can be traced in an audit-proof manner, including history, comments and attachments.

High user-friendliness
Intuitive forms and role-based views ensure a positive user experience without the need for training.

Scalability for future requirements
The architecture enables easy expansion to new processes and business areas, even in an international environment.

The success story of Geobrugg shows:
With clearly defined processes, a user-centered interface and the targeted use of Microsoft 365, a future-proof solution was created that brings efficiency gains and at the same time provides a sustainable digital basis for further growth.