Mendix Makers | Mendix helps Siemens’ native digital factory become lean and efficient

SNC is Siemens China’s first native digital factory, showcasing Siemens’ full-process digital solutions through the development and production of general motion control and motor products. I am part of the Lean Digital Excellence department, where my work involves identifying opportunities for digital technologies within the factory, implementing digitalization projects, and enabling business departments through IT-OT integration.

As the Mendix topic and Community Owner at SNC, I oversee Mendix-related development, promotion, and enablement, helping business teams adopt low-code digital tools to enhance efficiency and quality in their daily tasks.

MX: What tools did you and your team primarily use before adopting Mendix? What were the limitations?

Before Mendix, we primarily used tools like IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, Visual Studio, and database management tools such as Navicat and DBeaver. These tools required a solid IT programming foundation, making them complex to use. Development involved multiple stages—requirements gathering, testing, development, deployment—and collaboration among tools for front-end, back-end, and database operations. This made the process lengthy and cumbersome.

Mendix, on the other hand, integrates the entire software lifecycle into a single platform. It simplifies the process from requirements to development and deployment, making it accessible even to non-IT personnel.

MX: How did you get introduced to Mendix?

During my internship, I used low-code tools for software development and later learned about Mendix’s capabilities through Siemens’ official website. After joining SNC in June 2023, I became the Mendix Community Owner. My first project was developing a smart management and scheduling system for blue-collar workers using Mendix. This experience highlighted Mendix’s model-driven and graphical interface, significantly reducing development complexity while boosting efficiency.

MX: How has Mendix impacted your team’s work compared to traditional development methods?

Mendix has enabled business teams to independently develop software solutions, reducing reliance on IT resources and lowering development costs and timelines. Business users can now create systems tailored to their needs, fostering enthusiasm for digital transformation. It also enhances collaboration between IT and business departments.

MX: What applications have you developed using Mendix?

Our department has developed several applications:

• 3i Rationalization Suggestions Platform – for lean digital operations.
• PFEP Management System – supporting logistics planning.
• SNC Digital Platform – for digital integration.
• Blue-collar Worker Scheduling System – enhancing workforce management.
• Motor Production Scheduling System – optimizing production schedules.

These systems support internal lean operations and improve factory business processes.

MX: Which Mendix components/modules have you used? What are your impressions?

We frequently use the following components:

• Excel Importer/Exporter: Simplifies data transfer from Excel to Mendix.
• Email Connector: Enables automated email notifications.
• Mx Model Reflection: Streamlines data model management.

These components simplify complex functionalities and accelerate development. When challenges arise, resources like Mendix’s Docs, Academy, and developer forums are invaluable.

MX: Which application are you most proud of? Could you elaborate?

The PFEP Management System is a standout project. It is a key tool in lean logistics, aiding material supply planning for each part. Previously, manual input and Excel-based processes made data collaboration and quality challenging. The digital system now facilitates online management, improving data accuracy, workflow standardization, and rapid updates through agile development.

Key benefits include enhanced packaging strategies, optimized storage and distribution, and improved resource utilization.

MX: What are Mendix’s main advantages compared to traditional development?

• Visual Programming: Reduces the learning curve compared to traditional languages like Java or C++.
• Component-Based Development: Speeds up development with reusable components.
• High Code Quality: Ensures stable and maintainable applications through standardized components.
• Microflow Logic: Simplifies logic implementation and enhances readability, especially for frequent updates.

MX: What unique advantages does Mendix have over other low-code platforms?

• Comprehensive Learning Resources: Offers detailed courses, documentation, and an active community.
• Rich Component Library: Includes built-in functionalities like user authentication, workflows, and data management.
• Strong Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrates with ERP, CRM, and cloud services.
• Flexibility and Scalability: Allows extensive customization and supports elastic cloud deployments.

MX: Would you recommend Mendix to others? Why?

Absolutely. Mendix empowers both developers and business users to engage in digital transformation. Its user-friendly visual interface and robust ecosystem make it ideal for developing scalable, efficient, and innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving IT landscape.