Johnson Controls' Technology Management Recognized by Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology

BURSCHEID, Germany, February 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

Automotive supplier participated in Europe-wide benchmarking project

Johnson Controls, the global leader in automotive seating and seating components, has been named one of five winners of the "Successful Practices in Technology Management 2012" consortium benchmarking in technology management conducted by the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology (IPT) in Aachen, Germany. A total of 160 companies from across Europe took part in the project, which was led by the IPT for the fourth time.

"We are absolutely delighted to have been recognized by the Fraunhofer IPT. Being named one of the best companies in Europe for technology management is both an endorsement and incentive," said Dr. Andreas Eppinger, group vice president of Technology Management for Johnson Controls Automotive Seating. "Participating in the consortium benchmarking has given us numerous valuable insights and momentum for our work."

The IPT joined a consortium of renowned partners to analyze technology management in a multi-stage process at 160 companies that volunteered for the nine-month benchmarking project.

It evaluated the organizational structure of technology management, strategic technology planning, early recognition of new technologies, industry-spanning innovations using developments from other industries and open innovation approaches that involve external developers in the innovation process.

Johnson Controls impressed the jury with early recognition of new technologies, which was considered advanced compared to the other participating companies.

The consortium also recognized Johnson Controls' support for technology management through IT tools as well as its excellent performance in all other categories.

"Johnson Controls has impressively demonstrated that technology management can definitely be put on a successful footing in even a short space of time given the necessary management attention and appropriate resources. Well-thought-out, globally standardized processes with specific IT support have proven the key to its success in this instance," said Prof. Dr.-Ing. Günther Schuh of the Fraunhofer IPT at the closing conference for the consortium benchmarking in Aachen.

- Cross reference: Picture is available at epa european pressphoto agency (http://www.epa.eu) and http://www.presseportal.de/pm/19526/

Digital images are available online from http://www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk/press

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About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful.

About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience

Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive seating, overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior electronics. We support all major automakers in the differentiation of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. With 240 locations worldwide, we are where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort and style of our products, from single components to complete interiors. With our global capability we supply approximately 50 million cars per year.

For more information, please contact:
Johnson Controls GmbH
Automotive Seating
Industriestraße 20-30
51399 Burscheid
Germany
Oliver Herkert
Tel.: +49-2174-65-4348
E-Mail: oliver.herkert@jci.com

Internet: http://www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk