Following the acquisition of Norwegian-based Vianova Systems, and before that, Finnish Tekla and others, Trimble's Nordic organization now counts nearly 600 employees – in addition to a solid dealer network. In total Trimble has over 8,000 employees worldwide.

Trimble has slowly but surely become a "superpower" to count on also on the software side. While the enterprise primarily may still be perceived as the world's leading manufacturer of GPS-based instruments for surveying, mapping and machine control, has Trimble in recent years greatly expanded its software portfolio – software solutions for the whole building and construction industry.

Forceful product strategy

“Now it´s the holistic thought that counts”, says Idar Kirkhorn, general manager of Vianova Systems. “Trimble is committed to providing tool solutions that cover all disciplines and phases within building and construction – from planning and detailed design, through construction, to operation and maintenance of the completed project. Both machine equipment and software solutions must therefore cooperate in perfect harmony to cover all aspects well. But the trend is more and more software.”

Trimble's expansion has largely occurred through acquisitions of strategic companies and products – in addition to extensive in-house development. The company has purposefully attracted pioneering companies that have complementary product philosophies and vision, and with similar quality standards and values.

Oslo – centre for infrastructure solutions

One of these are Norwegian-based Vianova Systems, a pioneer in the development of BIM solutions for transport infrastructure. The company's portfolio of Novapoint^DCM and Quadri^DCM tools includes solutions for road, rail, WS, landscape, construction, bridges and tunnels etc. – tools for consulting engineers and contractors, as well as the project owners.

”These are solutions that Trimble now wants to "export" to the whole world”, says Kirkhorn. “Our Oslo office has become the centre of excellence for this business. The products are now developed further and being internationalized for the global market.”

Market-wise the office has been given responsibility for EMEA – Europe, Middle-East & Africa. Work is therefore going on intensively to integrate Novapoint^DCM and Quadri^DCM with Trimble´s related productivity tools – crucial for processes and workflow optimalization – from the design phase to the finished project.

Besides in Oslo, Trimble´s Vianova business also has its own offices in Gothenburg, Stockholm and Aarhus (sales, support and some development) – in addition to resellers in Finland, France, Benelux, Italy and Iceland.

Helsinki – centre for building solutions

As with Vianova Systems, also Finnish-based Trimble Solutions, formerly Tekla has become a part of Trimble's global operations. Tekla Structure, 3D tools for building construction, has for years led the development of BIM software for the building industry. Now when Trimble has taken over both Tekla and Vianova Systems the development is focused further – both to strengthen Trimble´s position in the building sector and to leverage the tools across industries. Vianova Systems in Oslo will therefore be cooperating extensively with the Finns.

“It´s clear that with even two other Trimble centres for civil software, one in Denver, USA and one in Melbourne, Australia, it's comfortable to take the short trip over to Helsinki”, says Idar Kirkhorn. “We have much to learn from each other and communication is good.”

Stockholm – total stations and apps

In Danderyd outside Stockholm Trimble develops and manufactures total stations and laser scanners for the geodesic market worldwide. Opto-electronics and GPS-based instruments for field surveying, mapping and related applications. Trimble has had development and manufacture of these high-tech instruments in Sweden for many years.

In Stockholm you also find another exciting software company that Trimble has recently taken over: Pocket Mobile delivers advanced mobility solutions to businesses that have personnel in the field. With the scalable application platform PreCom customers can optimize their business processes in mail and logistics, field services and inspection, and security and surveillance.

Solid dealer network

In addition to Trimble´s organization for direct sales to customers, Trimble has also a separate dealer network for its geodesic instruments and accessories – among which you have: SITECH, which is an authorized reseller of Trimble machine control and survey products for the construction industry. And Norgeodesi AS, which is a distributor of Trimble GPS and total stations, Spectra Presicion, Trimble 3D laser scanners and Trimble's GIS software. Both companies offer sales, service, support and training on these products.

Global solutions – rooted in the Nordics

“With a very good collaboration within Trimble we will now be able to offer even better products and solutions to our customers – both in the Nordic countries and in the global market”, says Idar Kirkhorn. “Locally, we are especially looking for PPP projects and turnkey contracts where close interaction between contractor and consultant is key. There, Trimble can now play an even greater role.”