Tailored instead of off-the-shelf: The ERP system for small and medium-sized enterprises
Interview with Clemens Maier, CEO of Dontenwill AG
Dontenwill stands for flexible, scalable ERP solutions and true customer intimacy. For over 40 years, the company has been accompanying SMEs on their journey into the digital future: collaboratively, practically, and always at the pulse of the industry. Customers appreciate the software with best-practice modules, individual customization options, and flexible technology. The Munich-based company specializes in ERP solutions for small and medium-sized manufacturing and trading companies. CEO Clemens Maier talks about individual customization, AI integration, remote work, and sustainable growth, for digitalization with substance and practical benefits.
What began in 1978 as an electronics mail order business is today an established ERP provider for industrial production and logistics-intensive sectors. Under the leadership of Clemens Maier, son of the company founder, Dontenwill has evolved into a modern software house with around 65 employees. "Our goal has always been not just to deliver software, but to understand and specifically optimize processes as a whole,” says the executive board. This philosophy characterizes all areas: development, consulting, and implementation are performed completely in-house, without external partners.
A distinctive feature is the ability to implement individual adjustments in an update-capable manner. "Some of our customers have been working with the same solution for 20 years and still continuously benefit from new features and stability," says Clemens Maier. This combination of stability and technological progress is particularly valued by medium-sized companies that rely on reliable partnerships.
Flexible and Close to the Customer
Dontenwill offers ERP systems for production-wise demanding and logistics-intensive enterprises – such as in medical technology, machining manufacturing, or plant engineering. The solutions cover the entire value chain: from product development through purchasing, production, and logistics to aftersales and CRM. "We make it possible to digitize even highly complex processes – from machine connectivity through warehouse automation to IoT integration," says Clemens Maier.
Another advantage is the modular system architecture, which enables both hybrid and complete cloud solutions. Instead of forcing migration, Dontenwill offers a gentle transformation with maximum investment security. AI is used both internally for software development and externally for automations such as document recognition. "Especially in small and medium-sized enterprises, there is often a lack of skilled workers – this is where our solutions come in to automate processes and specifically relieve employees," explains Clemens Maier.
Growth with a Vision
Despite technological advancement, people remain the focal point at Dontenwill. Since the pandemic, the company has been largely organized remotely – a change that has significantly strengthened the bond with its employees. "We have an extremely low turnover. Trust and flexibility are a lived practice for us," says Clemens Maier. This culture is also reflected in customer loyalty: More than 300 projects have been implemented, with an average partnership duration of over 15 years.
"Many of our customers come through referrals, because we are considered a reliable, personal partner," says Clemens Maier. Dontenwill continues to focus on organic growth. By 2030, the number of employees is expected to increase to around 105 – with a clear focus on expanding specialization for manufacturing companies. The goal remains to not only digitalize the medium-sized businesses but also to make them sustainable and future-proof – as a long-term, reliable transformation companion.