IFS launches IFS Applications 8 for efficient service and asset management

IFS, the global enterprise applications company, presents the new core version IFS Applications™ 8 featuring new and enhanced functionality for modern service and asset management. The new version has been developed in close collaboration with early adopter customers and includes innovations within mobile workforce management, contracting, product component maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and performance-based maintenance.

As the mobile workforce among service providers is growing rapidly, the need for efficient management solutions is increasing. In order to remain competitive and profitable, service providers must constantly maximize the efficiency of their mobile field workers. With the 360 Scheduling component, IFS Applications 8 offers a powerful solution for the mobile workforce that ensures full control over business-critical parameters such as response times, route planning, resource productivity and utilization, and average travel time per assignment.

Another important trend within the asset-intensive industries is the need to facilitate collaboration between companies and their partners. This is driving the demand for solutions that can make asset data and application processes interactive and accessible for partners and subcontractors. The Contracting component in IFS Applications 8 is designed to communicate requests for tenders to preferred and evaluated subcontractors. Contractors can submit web-based tenders, and the selected contractor will be able to access work instructions and job execution reporting via the web interface. Back-office processes such as work orders, RFQs, purchase orders, and accounts payable have been enhanced and extended by a B2B web interface.

With the new Component MRO feature, IFS Applications 8 also includes a best-practice solution for service providers specializing in product repair, as well as manufacturing companies looking to expand their revenue by providing aftermarket services. The solution covers the complete aftermarket repair process, from agreement, receipt and repair to shipping and invoicing.

In few other industries is the need for accurate, predictable and on-time maintenance as great as within aerospace and defense. The new Heavy Maintenance component was developed based on first-hand industry feedback to offer any MRO-oriented company first-class functionality. Enhancements specific to performance-based logistics ventures within the aerospace and defense industry include the ability to combine tasks into work packages that are grouped based on the accessibility of the aircraft, ship or vehicle in question. The solution also includes the capability to print work order documents, work order journals, status on work order operations, work order operations dispatching and clocking functionality, work order progress reporting, and support for Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM).

“IFS Applications 8 offers world-class service and asset management all across the board, from efficient management of field workers to facilitating subcontractor collaboration. This comprehensive solution reflects IFS’s long-term commitment to providing industry excellence within the varied field of service and asset management,” said Thomas Säld, VP Research & Development, IFS.

About IFS

IFS is a public company (OMX STO: IFS) founded in 1983 that develops, supplies, and implements IFS Applications™, a component-based extended ERP suite built on SOA technology. IFS focuses on industries where any of four core processes are strategic: Service & asset management, manufacturing, supply chain and projects. The company has 2,000 customers and is present in approximately 60 countries with 2,800 employees in total.

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