Covestro is one of the world’s leading companies in the polymer and materials industry. With strong markets in APAC and EMEA, Covestro operates in a highly regulated, innovation-driven environment. Its portfolio ranges from engineering plastics to coatings, specialty films, and medical plastics. The company places a particular focus on electromobility, sustainable materials, and a consistent circular economy strategy. As a strategic partner, Covestro supplies numerous key industries worldwide. Collaboration with customers includes consulting, joint material development, and technical implementation support.
Complexity as a daily reality
The international organization brought with it widely dispersed translation needs. Numerous departments worked in parallel, each with different technical and stylistic requirements. It was difficult to ensure consistency in terminology, corporate language, and processes. At the same time, the highest security requirements applied to sensitive development and corporate data. This complexity called for a solution that would provide structure without sacrificing flexibility.
The call for a solution based on partnership
Covestro wasn’t looking for a standalone service provider, but rather a reliable system partner. The goal was to centrally manage all translation processes while ensuring full transparency and control. Corporate language, data security, and global scalability were all equally important priorities. Business units should be able to work independently while still feeling like part of a shared system.
A platform as a unifying element
KERN fulfilled this goal with the launch of portal4client. The portal was established as the central interface for all translation requests. A structured onboarding process guided the line departments step by step through the new way of working. Early live roadshows at the corporate headquarters built trust and fostered a sense of ownership—going far beyond mere tool training. As a result, portal4client became not just a system, but a shared workspace.
Common standards, global impact
The portal enabled a self-service model that was available at all times for international teams. More than three million words were processed securely and systematically each month. Consistent terminology and clearly defined workflows strengthened the Group’s consistent public image. At the same time, the effort required for coordination between departments was noticeably reduced. The platform combined efficiency with a commitment to quality, security, and premium excellence.
Conclusion: Brand loyalty through a reliable partnership
This case study demonstrates how technological solutions can foster trust and a sense of belonging. KERN positioned itself as a long-term partner for sophisticated global communication. Shared standards, security, and scalability became the foundation for a sustainable partnership. This resulted not only in efficiency but also in genuine brand loyalty built on mutual respect.
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