As a Software Architect PC, Erik Smits translates our customers’ and product manager’s functional questions and requirements into technical solutions. In addition, he works closely with our system architect to see how we can further standardise our software across all disciplines (PLC, Robotics, and PC).

What is the most important skill you have developed at CSi?
“I believe it is important to think beyond my field of expertise when considering the best technical solution for our systems. By taking a broader view and contributing ideas about software solutions, we can achieve the best end product. A PC solution is overarching; we must always keep the functioning of the entire system in mind. By taking each other into account, we can create a better solution for the customer.”

What makes this particular role at this company so enjoyable?
“Developments in IT never stand still. PCs are increasingly being used in industrial automation projects, which brings new challenges and opportunities to devise effective and user-friendly solutions for our customers. Because CSi supplies systems for many different types of products worldwide, the requirements and solutions are never the same. This requires flexibility and makes it fun and challenging.
I also enjoy going to the customer’s site for commissioning. Officially, this is not part of my job, but it gives me the opportunity to keep learning. Seeing how the solution works in real life provides many valuable insights and allows me to realise things that I would not have thought of sitting at my desk. It also allows me to talk to the customer and see their reaction, which I learn from every time.”

How does your work contribute to the larger company mission?
“Standardisation of the PC software had multiple advantages for CSi. Optimised software makes a palletising system faster and more stable, enabling us to improve our customers’ logistics processes. It also reduces the time we spend on site during commissioning. Furthermore, standardizing the software improves the MOre software suite because we are building on existing code and keep improving it. Also, we’re currently in the process of creating energy consumption insights. By mapping data from the MOre software, we can see how much electricity and air are used in our systems. With this knowledge, we can look for improvements to reduce energy consumption and use the installation more efficiently.”

Our software engineers have a spot left for someone interested in Software / PC / PLC / Robotics. Is that you? Check out the job openings and find your match, or contact Erik Smits via LinkedIn.