Case study

    Transforming steel slab handling for greater efficiency

    SSAB partnered with Nortal to design a digital slab handling system that improves efficiency and supports smarter, safer decision-making at the Raahe mill.

    Service

    Experience and Design

    Industry

    Manufacturing Industry

    SSAB is a global leader in high-strength steels and related services, with a bold goal to offer fossil-free steel by 2026 and largely eliminate carbon emissions in its operations by 2030, taking significant steps towards sustainability.

     

    As part of this commitment, SSAB initiated a project to modernize its slab handling system at the Raahe steel mill. The goal has been to replace an outdated, manually driven system with a digital solution that optimizes workflows and prioritizes the needs of its users. The research, design, and prototyping phases of this project have been successfully completed, setting the stage for implementation in the next phase, where the full benefits of a user-centric approach will be realized.

    Understanding the need for change

    SSAB's existing slab handling system has served its purpose for decades However, it relies on multiple software tools and heavily manual processes, such as radio and phone communication, to coordinate tasks. This approach no longer meets the demands of today’s modern steel production environment, where faster response times and more flexible and scalable workflows are essential.

     

    To address this, SSAB, a long-term partner of Nortal, collaborated with Nortal to design a modern slab handling system tailored to today’s demands. From the beginning, the project prioritized a design-driven approach, ensuring that the solution goes beyond technical functionality to genuinely enhance the worker experience.

    A design-driven, user-centric approach

    To build a strong foundation, our team conducted an extensive user research, engaging directly with SSAB employees who interact with the slab handling process daily. Our team identified several areas where user-centric improvements could drive significant value. The research phase provided crucial insights into their daily routines, the obstacles they face, and what they need to work more effectively. Out of the 100 workers involved in slab operations, around 60 took part in interviews. Their input helped us understand how slabs are handled, from movement to processing and storage.

    Taneli Kulo, Senior Service Designer, Nortal

    “This project stands out in my 30-year career as one where design and user experience have truly taken centre stage. While I’ve seen the value of user-centricity in other projects, this one has been exceptional in its deep focus on the service journey, not just technical details.”

    The research phase was followed by concept development and prototyping. During this phase, we identified key process disruptions - such as equipment malfunctions, unclear markings, and communication challenges - that were slowing down inspectors and maintenance staff while increasing workload and safety risks. To address these challenges, we designed an interface concept that offers real-time guidance for slab handling, with an emphasis on clear communication and ease of use, as well as the ability to adjust to different situations.

    Instead of directly controlling machinery, the system serves as a decision-support tool, offering actionable recommendations based on real-time data. This design enables workers to make faster, smarter decisions while reducing reliance on inefficient manual communication.

    By shifting from a technology-first mindset to a user-first approach, SSAB ensures the system is built around actual user needs. We created a strong prototype that will significantly enhance workflow efficiency once implemented. The system will simplify daily tasks, reduce friction in operations, and better support the people who handle slabs as part of their routine.

    Next steps: turning design into reality

    With the research, design, and prototyping phase now completed, the next critical step is system implementation. This is where the full impact of the user-centric approach will be realized.

    When fully implemented, the system is expected to:

    • Reduce training time for new employees by providing an intuitive, easy-to-use interface 
    • Minimize errors by delivering relevant, real-time data to workers 
    • Enable faster decision-making with clear, actionable recommendations 
    • Improve overall production efficiency by streamlining workflows 
    • Reduce unnecessary movement around the factory floor, enhancing safety 
    • Ensure adaptability to integrate with future technologies and evolving production needs 

    By prioritizing user experience, collaboration, and real-time data utilization, SSAB is taking a forward-thinking approach to industrial digitalization. This initiative marks real progress in improving how slab handling operations are carried out, with a clear focus on long-term adaptability and performance.

    Laying the foundation for a smarter future

    The work done during the research, design, and prototyping phases has laid a solid roadmap for implementation, helping to ensure that the system rollout will support both user needs and production targets.

     

    SSAB's commitment to user-centricity in this project sets a new standard or how digital solutions can enhance industrial operations. As the implementation phase beings, the impact of this approach will soon be visible in how slab handling is carried out, bringing meaningful improvements to both safety and performance.

     

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