Anja Piechnick, Managing Director at LA.S.T., vividly recalls the “before” and “after” phases of this transition. Previously, the company juggled multiple disconnected software solutions—one for machine control, another for administration, and a third for delivery notes. “It was chaotic and inefficient,” Piechnick shares. That changed with the introduction of Lantek Integra, an all-encompassing system that now handles everything from quotations to invoicing in a unified platform.
Starting with Expertise
The shift began with the adoption of a new LVD laser cutting machine equipped with Lantek Expert 2D CAD-CAM nesting software. “The software was remarkably intuitive compared to what we had been using,” Piechnick says. Even employees without extensive software expertise found it user-friendly. The subsequent addition of another LVD machine, this time with a rotary axis, required the integration of Lantek Flex3d to automate nesting for tubular and profile parts.
According to Cvijetin Vasiljevic, Lantek’s Regional Sales Manager, this is a common path for many customers: “They are introduced to Lantek via OEM partnerships and later discover that our solutions cover much more than nesting.” With over 35 years of experience, Lantek offers software that manages more than 4,500 machine models, making it a versatile tool for businesses with diverse manufacturing needs.
Recognizing the potential of Lantek’s solutions, LA.S.T. became one of the early adopters of Lantek Integra ERP software, later integrating it with Lantek MES for advanced production management. “Our previous ERP was cumbersome and unintuitive,” Piechnick explains. Now, the entire production workflow is controlled via Lantek, from order processing to real-time production monitoring.
“The system’s efficiency is unmatched,” says Piechnick. “Even complex orders with 50-60 line items can be entered and processed with just a few clicks. The seamless feedback from production to administration ensures we always have a clear overview.”
A Strategic Partner in Digitalization
Lantek didn’t just provide software—it became a partner in LA.S.T.’s digital journey. During the initial implementation, Lantek’s team conducted a thorough analysis of LA.S.T.’s processes and suggested improvements, tailoring the software to fit their needs. Comprehensive employee training was also part of the package. “The training sessions brought many ‘Eureka moments,’ helping us fully grasp the software’s capabilities,” Piechnick recalls.
The benefits of this collaboration are significant. Lantek’s software has optimized material usage, reduced administrative burdens, and streamlined the entire production process. “The integration between the modules gives us full control and visibility, minimizing unnecessary movements on the shop floor and enabling better cost calculations,” Piechnick notes. Additionally, Lantek’s plate management feature has reduced material waste, allowing LA.S.T. to operate with a smaller inventory and eliminate the need for separate warehouse management software.
Ready for the Next Chapter
Even after 14 years, Lantek continues to support LA.S.T.’s growth. Recently, the company integrated a Trumpf laser into its machine fleet, with Lantek software facilitating its seamless incorporation. Next, Piechnick plans to explore Lantek Bend, a solution designed to simplify complex bending tasks, further enhancing LA.S.T.’s productivity.
“Lantek’s solutions have become an integral part of our operations,” Piechnick concludes. “It’s the kind of software that quietly runs in the background, letting us focus on what matters—delivering exceptional results to our customers.”