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With the new data centre, located
approximately 10km from TDS headquarters in Neckarsulm,
we create additional resources for
operating your IT systems.
TDS is committed to ensuring its
data centres meet the highest possible security standards. For this
reason, the new facility will be
equipped with state-of-the-art
fire-alarm, intrusion-detection and
biometric access control systems.
>> read more in "Building a secure future"
Swiss aircraft manufacturer renews outsourcing contract
11, - December 11,2009
Stans/St. Gallen, 11 December 2009. Pilatus Flugzeugwerke AG has extended its SAP outsourcing contract with TDS AG, a one-stop provider of IT outsourcing, IT consulting and HR services. The number-one manufacturer of aircraft in Switzerland, headquartered in Stans, has been a TDS outsourcing customer since 2004. Now, the contract has been renewed for a further four years, and the scope of services expanded. TDS operates Pilatus’ SAP systems landscape and provides the very high level of reliability and security essential for this industry.
Focus on availability and flexibility
During its call-for-proposals process, Pilatus considered several IT service providers for the operation of its SAP environment, and for the expansion of the corresponding IT infrastructure. Christoph Büeler, CIO at Pilatus AG, comments: “Three major factors influenced us to continue working with TDS: cost, our positive experience with the company regarding reliability, and the service provider’s high level of flexibility.”
Pilatus has very high demands regarding security, reliability and availability, and this is evident in its strict service level agreements. Downtimes in SAP systems have a direct impact on Pilatus’ manufacturing processes, delaying delivery of aircraft, and resulting in contractual penalties. As the enterprise has production facilities around the globe, 24/7 availability is of utmost importance for ensuring smooth operations.
To fulfill these stringent requirements, TDS operates systems that support development, production and quality control in its own data centers, backed by extensive certification and validation. What’s more, existing systems have been extended as part of the new contract. For example, TDS has installed a leading-edge storage area network (SAN). The entire IT infrastructure can be easily expanded, and additional resources can be provided flexibly and on short notice.
Complex requirements, straightforward collaboration
Pilatus values flexibility not only when it comes to its IT platform, but especially in day-to-day collaboration. Christoph Büeler explains, “TDS staff have demonstrated that when our needs change, or unexpected events occur, they can respond quickly and efficiently. Direct and personal contact with experts, rapid decision-making, and a focus on customer service are very important.” This is why services are provided on-site by TDS’ Swiss subsidiary TDS MultiVision AG. Its employees ensure smooth operations, and advise Pilatus regarding expanding and enhancing its SAP systems. For example, they recently implemented SAP Solution Manager, a tool for comprehensive monitoring of SAP installations. They are currently working with Pilatus on planning the launch of a new SAP NetWeaver portal.
