Shimizu Corporation Integrates Workato for Enhanced Data Utilization and AI Usage

Introduction

Shimizu Corporation has recently implemented Workato, an iPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service) solution provided by Hitachi Solutions, to boost its data utilization capabilities and facilitate automation through the use of AI technologies. This initiative is part of Shimizu's broader mid-term digital transformation (DX) strategy, which emphasizes the importance of data utilization in the construction industry.

The Challenge

In its efforts to achieve a digital transformation, Shimizu Corporation recognized the inherent challenges posed by scattered data residing across various systems, whether on-premises or cloud-based. Traditional methods of data extraction were time-consuming, as employees often struggled to locate the necessary information. To address these issues, Shimizu decided to establish a robust data utilization foundation, beginning with data virtualization solutions to manage accurate and up-to-date information. However, the increasing demand for large-scale data processing and intercloud data connectivity made it clear that further enhancements were required.

The Workato Integration

In light of these needs, Shimizu Corporation opted to adopt Workato due to its impressive array of over 1,000 connectors capable of integrating SaaS, on-premises systems, and generative AI technologies. This platform supports the implementation of diverse automation recipes that can be developed by employees with no coding experience, thus driving internal automation initiatives.

For example, Shimizu has successfully deployed a system where maintenance notification emails are analyzed using Large Language Models (LLM) to automatically send alerts to operational personnel through chat tools, prioritizing messages based on urgency. This capability allows for improved responsiveness within operations, demonstrating the potential of Workato as a standard environment for AI-powered business automation.

Future Outlook

Shimizu Corporation holds high expectations for the role of Workato in fostering data utilization and AI-powered automation throughout the organization. They aim to accelerate their business processes across the entire company, further contributing to their digital transformation goals. Hitachi Solutions will continue to support Shimizu in harnessing AI technologies to push forward their DX initiatives and achieve sustainable management practices.

Client Feedback

Mr. Yoshitaka Okazaki, Executive Officer of Shimizu Corporation’s DX Promotion Office, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, "Hitachi Solutions provided valuable insights based on their own experiences with Workato, which gave us confidence. In the future, we plan to expand its use beyond data integration to develop AI agent environments. We look forward to working closely with Hitachi Solutions to explore a variety of use cases."

Conclusion

The construction industry faces critical challenges related to productivity and labor shortages, underlining the urgent need for effective digital transformation strategies. Shimizu Corporation's commitment to developing a comprehensive data utilization platform through the integration of Workato marks an important step in addressing these challenges. This initiative not only improves operational efficiencies but also positions Shimizu as a leader in embracing digital innovations within the construction sector.

Further Information

For more details on the implementation and outcomes, feel free to visit the following links:

Hitachi Solutions aims to provide cutting-edge digital solutions in tandem with customers. Their collaborations extend across global regions, including Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, enhancing their capability to solve complex challenges faced by businesses. Through these efforts, they aim to contribute to creating safe, secure, and sustainable communities.