Custom software and middleware that ties it all together

The situation

For more than six decades, Chicago Coding Systems has specialized in marking, coding, and labeling technologies, providing customized solutions for industries nationwide. With complex and unique integration needs, they turned to Mr. IIoT to create seamless connectivity across the many platforms and devices used in their processes.

The challenge

In a landscape of fragmented systems and specialized devices, Chicago Coding Systems needed a partner who could handle complex integrations across hardware, software, and middleware. “The real challenge,” explains President Rob Wienhoff, “is connecting all these disparate systems into a single working platform.”

The company required custom middleware to bridge devices — such as Zebra printers — with client networks that needed to scan, identify, and label products in real time. Off-the-shelf solutions couldn't meet these demands, and projects often involved custom-built hardware needing bespoke software to run.

The solution

Chicago Coding Systems chose Mr. IIoT based on Mr. Wienhoff's longstanding relationship with founder Chris Misztur and the results of past projects. “Chris and his team listen, understand, and interpret our needs to create a customized solution instead of pushing some canned thing,” he notes.

“I built the hardware and electronics, and then Chris and his team wrote all the software to make it run… Mr. IIoT wrote all the middleware programs to allow us to scan, print, and apply these labels for our clients.”— Rob Wienhoff

Mr. IIoT built a “middleware toolset” that connected systems seamlessly, letting devices like barcode scanners and printers work together with client networks. Their process included:

• Detailed needs assessment — discovery and collaboration to create a comprehensive scope of work.
• Customized integration — middleware and custom software connecting factory equipment to client databases.
• Responsive project management — clear communication and regular updates throughout.

The result

Mr. IIoT's integration work let Chicago Coding Systems deliver more cohesive, efficient solutions to its clients — reducing bottlenecks and improving labeling accuracy and speed. It expanded their capabilities by:

• Enabling real-time communication between machines and networks, reducing delays.
• Increasing the efficiency of product labeling, especially on custom-built hardware.
• Supporting diverse client needs with adaptable middleware, serving a wider array of demands.

Rob Wienhoff reports complete satisfaction, awarding a five-out-of-five rating and emphasizing the reliability and communication that lead him to recommend Mr. IIoT to other clients.