From complexity to clarity: FLSmidth’s journey to growth with AI-driven data
The challenge
FLSmidth’s operations hinge on a vast array of parts and components. Reliable data is the lifeblood of the system, yet the company faced challenges with disjointed systems that caused delays and inefficiencies. With many parts having similar counterparts across platforms, there was potential for confusion and occasional slowdowns. The need for a structured Data Governance (DG) framework became clear to support growth and operational clarity.
The solution
We stepped in as the partner for FLSmidth’s first large-scale DG project, crafting a strategic framework to harmonise the data system. How did we do this? By mapping global part lifecycle processes, defining clear ownership, and aligning stakeholders on a single system of record. We streamlined data management by standardising part definitions and key application relationships and oversaw the development of AI-driven duplicate detection, which boosted accuracy and efficiency.
The Outcome
The impact was immediate. During the pilot, the AI model achieved 96% accuracy in identifying duplicate entries. This enabled clearer visibility into parts data and supported smarter decision-making across procurement, inventory, and service delivery. After the pilot, data cleaning drove ongoing improvements in quality and efficiency. By embedding governance and automation into daily work, FLSmidth created a scalable, long-term solution for managing critical data.
When the crusher breaks down, the entire mining operation comes to a standstill. The right spare part is promptly needed to minimise business disruption. As a global leader in providing productivity and sustainability solutions to the mining industry, FLSmidth must ensure that clients have swift access to the necessary components for maintenance and repairs. The company recognised that a structured approach to harmonising Master Data was needed to streamline operations and strengthen customer service.
Turning complex data into a strategic asset
With over 140 years of innovation, FLSmidth has transformed from a local machinery supplier into a worldwide leader in full flowsheet technology for the mining industry. Committed to shaping a more sustainable future, FLS delivers advanced equipment and lifecycle solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
“Initially, we worked with FLSmidth on another project, where the goal was to collect data from various departments to gain a comprehensive product view and facilitate quick sales. While working on this project, it became clear that a more structured approach to data was the key to unlocking even greater value,” says Viet Pham, CTO of Transformation Öresund at Sofigate.
“Recognising the strategic importance of reliable data, FLSmidth took the initiative to further elevate data quality and governance. As we were already working with them on projects that delivered value across both technical and business dimensions, they chose us to lead this transformation project, building on our successful collaboration.”
A whopping 96% accuracy in duplicate detection
Accurate, well-structured parts data is the backbone of efficient inventory management, pricing, and customer service. However, when data is dispersed across platforms, inefficiencies disrupt the flow.
How did this manifest? Engineers spent a lot of time searching for the right part, sometimes leading to maintenance delays and inefficiencies in procurement. A lack of consistent data across systems also made it difficult to maintain unified visibility and coordination.
“Our primary goal was to eliminate data fragmentation and duplication to provide precise parts information across the organisation. To achieve this, we managed the development of an AI-powered deduplication model that analysed datasets across multiple platforms, identifying and merging unneeded records with a 96% validity,” Pham explains.
This turning point changed the way FLSmidth handled its parts data. As a result, inventory, pricing, and aftermarket sales all improved. Procurement teams and engineers now rely on a single source, reducing manual work and ensuring data consistency across all systems.
From a challenge into an advantage
Yet cleaning the data was just the beginning. To create a permanent impact, strong governance was essential. We guided FLSmidth in building lasting data ownership and accountability.
By aligning leadership and fostering cross-departmental collaboration, FLSmidth successfully integrated governance into their daily operations. This framework ensures sustained data quality and continuous improvement, transforming data from a challenge into an enabler.
With 67% parts reuse, accurate AI results for duplication control, and optimised pricing, FLSmidth now makes faster, more informed decisions. Embedding AI-powered governance enhances efficiency and reduces costs over the long term. This approach helps them scale intelligently while boosting revenue growth.
“Valid data is a lot more than just numbers, it’s a competitive advantage,” says Loris Battistello, Head of Master Data Management & Data Governance at FLSmidth.
Bridging business and IT for success
Together, we helped FLSmidth revolutionise its approach to managing parts data by establishing a structured and scalable DG framework. This transformation optimised global operations, eliminated redundancies, and ensured long-term consistency. As a result, data became a trusted asset, driving business growth and empowering informed decision-making.
Our role extended beyond project management: we ensured the entire transformation aligned with company goals and was embedded into daily operations. With clear frameworks, shared accountability, and deep collaboration between business and technology, FLSmidth is now well equipped to turn data into a driver of growth.
“Sofigate’s expertise in business technology helped us bring structure and efficiency to our complex data landscape. Their ability to bridge business and IT was crucial for the success of this transformation,” Battistello concludes.
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