Aachen Road and Transport Days 2025: HELLER demonstrates how digitalization creates real added value in maintenance management

At this year's industry meeting in Aachen, Henning Balck presented approaches to digitizing road maintenance management. Digitization is much more than just new technology or additional data—it is a key factor in ensuring transparency, goal orientation, and professional and effective infrastructure management.

The focus was on the current challenges facing administrations: a lack of information for effective management, widely varying conditions of road networks and budgetary constraints, as well as increasing pressure due to scarce resources and rising demands. Numerous examples clearly illustrated how a modern asset management system in accordance with ISO 55001 creates structures, strengthens responsibilities, and paves the way for strategic decisions.

Balck emphasized that data only has value if it is processed, interpreted, and integrated into processes. HELLER presented specific digitization components for this purpose—from automated process chains and cloud-based knowledge and project management systems to the intelligent linking of different data sources such as ZEB, point clouds, and floating car data.

Particular emphasis was placed on the need for responsible use of AI-based approaches: only traceable, compliant, and quality-assured processes can gain the trust of the public sector in the long term.

The presentation concluded with a clear appeal: the future of road infrastructure depends crucially on understanding digitalization not as a buzzword, but as a strategic tool – tailored to the goals, processes, and people in the organizations.