Ballerstaedt & Co. OHG: Future-proof Output Management with InterformNG2
From a restricted print system to a flexible, platform-independent solution
Customer Overview
Ballerstaedt & Co. OHG, based in Rastatt, Germany, is a specialist manufacturer of sealing systems and closure technologies. Operating as a mid-sized industrial company with high quality and compliance requirements, Ballerstaedt runs a heterogeneous ERP landscape based on IBM i (AS/400), Linux and Windows servers. Reliable document output plays a critical role across production, logistics, and finance, making a stable and future-ready output management platform essential.
The Challenge
Ballerstaedt’s existing print solution had reached the end of its lifecycle. The software could no longer be updated because the original developer had ceased operations, creating growing compatibility risks with newer environments such as Windows 11. In addition, the system was limited to AS/400 output only, restricting flexibility and making it difficult to support modern, cross-platform processes.
Regulatory requirements added further pressure. In particular, ZUGFeRD-compliant e-invoicing could not be implemented with the existing setup. As a result, Ballerstaedt needed a modern, reliable output management solution that could support multiple platforms, meet legal requirements, and remain maintainable in the long term.
The Solution
Ballerstaedt selected InterformNG2 as a platform-independent output management solution capable of running seamlessly across Windows, Linux and IBM i environments. The breadth of functionality, combined with responsive and personal support from Interform, was a decisive factor.
The main project ran from April 2024 until the end of 2024. Implementation followed a structured, form-by-form approach. Two Interform consultants worked closely with three IT specialists from Ballerstaedt. While Interform collaborated directly with the IT department, internal alignment with other areas such as production, logistics, accounting and finance was managed centrally by Ballerstaedt’s IT team.
The first four forms were developed jointly to establish a solid foundation. Once these were completed, Ballerstaedt’s IT team was able to independently design and adapt additional templates. Interform supported the process through regular Teams sessions and hands-on guidance, particularly during the implementation of ZUGFeRD e-invoicing and the resolution of font and layout challenges. This approach ensured a smooth transition while building long-term internal expertise.
The Results
Today, InterformNG2 handles a wide range of document types at Ballerstaedt, including labels, production orders, invoices and ZUGFeRD-compliant e-invoices.
Document output is faster and significantly more reliable. Advanced logging provides full transparency, allowing the IT team to track every print job and identify potential issues before they affect production. E-invoicing validation ensures that invoices are always correct and compliant, reducing manual checks and rework.
Template development and workflow management are clearer and easier to maintain, and changes can be implemented productively within minutes. While no direct cost savings were quantified, Ballerstaedt has achieved noticeable improvements in process reliability, control and operational confidence.
Looking Ahead
With the foundation firmly in place, Ballerstaedt is now fully self-sufficient in working with InterformNG2. The IT team continues to develop and refine templates independently and is actively exploring further optimisation opportunities on its own, using InterformNG2 as the central platform for output management.
Quote: Frank Kiefer, IT Programmer and Administrator, Ballerstaedt & Co. OHG
“We can now implement production-related requirements within minutes. Interform has fully met all our expectations.”