Poka > Case Studies > Streamlining Operations and Reducing Downtime at Bunge with Poka's IoT Solution

Streamlining Operations and Reducing Downtime at Bunge with Poka's IoT Solution

Technology Category

Networks & Connectivity - 5G
Platform as a Service (PaaS) - Application Development Platforms

Applicable Industries

Agriculture
Equipment & Machinery

Applicable Functions

Maintenance
Quality Assurance

Use Cases

Personnel Tracking & Monitoring
Time Sensitive Networking

Services

Testing & Certification
Training

About The Customer

Bunge is a global leader in the food and agriculture industry. The company has over 23,000 dedicated associates, more than 300 diverse facilities, and a presence in over 40 countries. Bunge is the world leader in oilseed processing and a leading producer and supplier of specialty plant-based oils, fats, and protein. The company is committed to improving operational efficiency, worker engagement, and communication across its facilities. Bunge's collaboration with Poka is part of its continuous improvement efforts to reduce unplanned downtime, streamline shift handovers, and maintain high operational standards.

The Challenge

Bunge, a global leader in the food and agriculture industry, was facing challenges in operational efficiency, worker engagement, and communication. With over 23,000 associates, 300+ facilities, and a presence in more than 40 countries, the company needed a solution to directly connect workers with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and facilitate communication. The primary goal was to reduce unplanned downtime, streamline shift handovers, and improve the quality of inspections. The company was also looking for a way to improve the mean time between failures (MTBF), which would lead to longer intervals between major equipment breakdowns. The challenge was to find a solution that could address these issues efficiently and effectively.

The Solution

Bunge turned to Poka's digital platform to address their operational challenges. They trialled four of Poka’s modules: Connected Worker Platform, Knowledge Hub, Skills Management, and Communication. The Connected Worker Platform and Knowledge Hub provided up-to-date SOPs/SWIs all in one place, while the Skills Management module offered a Skills Matrix for blended training. The Communication module facilitated easy reach to experts across shifts and departments. Bunge rolled out Poka on two production lines and within a few months, they experienced a significant reduction in unplanned downtime and an increase in MTBF. This was attributed to the operators' ability to address minor issues promptly, communicate them efficiently, and prevent them from escalating into larger problems. Poka also improved the quality of shift handovers and inspections by offering features that support form scheduling and quality, increasing completion rates.

Operational Impact

The implementation of Poka's digital platform led to significant improvements in Bunge's operational performance. The solution not only reduced unplanned downtime but also improved the quality of shift handovers and inspections. The easy access to SOPs and the ability to communicate efficiently across shifts and departments led to better problem-solving capabilities among operators. The platform also fostered a culture of excellence among the workforce, empowering them to take initiative and continuously improve operations. Even in the test pilot phase, Bunge witnessed significant improvements in operational efficiency, communication, and problem-solving capabilities.

Quantitative Benefit