Case Study: How OutSystems Fostered Toyota's Digital Transformation

A Decade of Transformation

It all started in 2014 when Toyota decided to tackle one of its biggest hurdles—modernizing its legacy systems. For a company with such a massive global presence and intricate operational frameworks, this was no small feat. But with OutSystems in the driver’s seat, Toyota didn’t just aim for a routine upgrade; it sought to revolutionize how it approached software development across the board.

The journey began with a modest but critical application known as the “Sheet Metal System.” The results were immediate and impressive—a 30% reduction in work hours compared to traditional development methods. Encouraged by this success, Toyota began to scale the implementation of OutSystems across its various departments, eventually extending to the entire Toyota Group by 2020.

From Legacy to Leading Edge

By 2023, 23 Toyota Group companies globally, from Europe to Asia-Pacific, had adopted OutSystems. Over 70 projects at Toyota Motor Corporation alone leveraged this platform, making OutSystems an integral part of their digital strategy. The applications weren’t just limited to modernizing old systems; they also included new front-end developments that connected legacy systems with users in innovative ways.

Toyota’s digital transformation wasn’t just about updating software; it was about reshaping the company’s entire approach to development. The adoption of Agile methodologies, supported by OutSystems’ flexible environment, marked a significant shift from the traditional waterfall model. This change was driven by the realization that today’s car buyers are looking for more than just vehicles—they want a seamless mobility experience powered by cutting-edge technology.

Numbers That Tell the Story

- 30% reduction in work hours: The initial OutSystems project slashed development time by nearly a third, setting the stage for broader adoption.

- 23 Toyota Group companies: A clear testament to the platform’s scalability and effectiveness across a global enterprise.

- 70+ projects delivered: From legacy modernization to new app development, OutSystems has been the backbone of Toyota’s digital projects.

The Bigger Picture

Toyota’s partnership with OutSystems isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about leading the way in digital innovation. With 40% of Asia-Pacific’s top 2,000 organizations expected to derive revenue from digital products and services by 2026, Toyota’s digital transformation is setting a benchmark for the entire industry.

OutSystems’ low-code platform has become the go-to tool within Toyota for its ability to deliver high-quality applications quickly and efficiently. And the benefits are clear: faster development cycles, lower costs, and, most importantly, happier users. As Atsushi Inagaki, General Manager of Toyota’s DX Promotion Division, put it, “OutSystems has finally become everyone’s go-to tool within the organization.”

Looking Ahead

Toyota isn’t stopping here. The company is now focused on strengthening its OutSystems deployment, including establishing evaluation indicators for new projects and enhancing operational structures to fully harness the platform’s capabilities. The goal? To continue driving innovation in a world where digital transformation is not just an option but a necessity.

As Toyota continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, its partnership with OutSystems remains a key pillar in its journey from a traditional car manufacturer to a leading mobility company. The road ahead is undoubtedly filled with challenges, but with OutSystems by its side, Toyota is more than ready to navigate the future of mobility.