How Softhouse built a global platform for real-time traceability of 100 million items
How Softhouse built a global platform for real-time traceability of 100 million items
This is a case study of how we work with nearshore software development to build scalable systems for industry and logistics.
The challenge
A global industry leader faced a clear operational challenge: managing over 250,000 unique products and 100 million individual items across a network of more than 15,000 organizations. Without a unified tracking system, operations were marked by fragmented data, manual processes, and limited visibility into the product lifecycle — from design to recycling.
This type of challenge is common in larger industrial organizations, where systems, data, and processes have evolved over time without a cohesive structure.
Our solution
We developed a digital ecosystem that connects physical industrial assets with the digital world. By creating digital twins for each item, it became possible to track products in real time and establish a unified view of the entire lifecycle regardless of location.
The solution acts as a real-time platform where data from multiple sources is collected, validated, and made accessible across the organization.
- Scalable architecture for real-time systems: A dual-database solution capable of processing and synchronizing over 200 million items in real time.
- Flexible identification of products and components: Support for QR, RFID, and Data Matrix scanning, enabling use across different environments and scenarios.
- Integration with business systems and logistics flows: Bi-directional integration with SAP ERP and logistics providers such as UPS, enabling a more connected supply chain.
- Security and compliance aligned with established standards: Built according to industry standards, with support for Auth0 OAuth and SOC 2 Type II logging.
Impact and results
- Increased traceability: Up to 90% of products can now be tracked throughout their entire lifecycle, improving conditions for sustainability initiatives and circular flows.
- Reduced manual work: Automation reduced manual processes by 85% and lowered operational costs by 40%.
- Built to scale: The platform currently manages over 200 million items and is designed to grow alongside the business.
- Stronger brand protection: Improved authentication and the ability to detect counterfeits increase security for both the company and end users.
The result is not only more efficient processes, but also a solid foundation for working in a more data-driven way — for example within sustainability, supply chain optimization, and future AI initiatives.