baramundi - Our history
Straightforward solutions for complex IT problems
A look back at 25+ years of innovation and growth
It all started in the late 1990s with the rollout of a new OS. Augsburg computer science students Bernd Holz and Tobias Frank were tasked with installing Windows NT 4.0 on thousands of computers at one German company.
They realized that manual installations would be far too time-consuming but discovered that no suitable automation solutions were available. As they began to develop one they saw that their work had even greater potential.
2000: An Augsburg, Germany start-up is born
The founding of baramundi software
That project laid the foundation for the success to follow. With a clever solution for the automated distribution of applications and operating systems, the two consultants founded baramundi software AG in Augsburg on 28 April 2000. The name ‘baramundi’ comes from a German regional pronunciation of “para el mundo,” meaning “For the world.” It perfectly described their motivation to create a solution that sustainably improves the IT and business worlds of their customers.
2007: From start-up to market leader
Product, sales and organizational growth
With numerous enhancements, the solution becomes a complete client lifecycle management system. The product is so well received in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria that baramundi achieves 56% sales growth within a year. To meet growing demand, baramundi builds a partner network providing customer training, certification, and sales and marketing support. The company also creates a training organization in cooperation with local universities.
2010: Moving into the Glaspalast
The founders bring in seasoned management
Continuing growth leads to the 2009 merger of baramundi software development GmbH into baramundi software AG and a move into the historic Glaspalast building in Augsburg. The company also expands its management team with the addition of sales professional Uwe Beikirch to the Management Board. Bernd Holz continues to oversee Development & Services while Tobias Frank leaves the Management Board to concentrate on supporting key accounts.
2017: Start of a new era
baramundi becomes part of the Wittenstein Group
As baramundi becomes a leading UEM provider in the DACH market, it expands into Poland in 2014. Recognizing baramundi’s growth and expertise in IT and OT infrastructure management, family-run mechatronics specialist Wittenstein SE adds baramundi to its portfolio of independent companies in 2017. Dr. Lars Lippert assumes the role of Chief Development & Services Officer from Bernd Holz. In 2018, baramundi begins a major new phase of growth by planning expansions into the North American market.
2020: Immediate help for admins
Rising to the challenge
In addition to the health dangers and disruptions to everyday life caused by the coronavirus pandemic, businesses worldwide struggle with interrupted supply chains, a sudden shift to remote work and deep economic uncertainty. As baramundi prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the company launches an emergency aid campaign giving organizations use of the baramundi Management Suite free of charge for up to six months. baramundi solutions enable organizations globally to make the rapid transition to remote work and ensure business continuity. The emergency aid offer is especially welcomed in Italy, one of the first Europeans countries to experience the acute effects of the deadly virus in early 2020.
2023: Continuous change
Product growth, a management change and a new company structure
With Wittenstein as its sole shareholder, baramundi changes its business structure from an AG or corporation to a GmbH. The company also moves into its new state-of- the-art headquarters, the Software Factory. Uwe Beikirch steps down from the Management Board after 13 years. He is succeeded by Michael Huber, who, together with Dr. Lars Lippert, continues to drive the company’s growth in new market segments. The product portfolio also expands with a new Digital Employee Experience (DEX) solution.
2025: 25 years of baramundi… and counting!
A special milestone for the ‘coolest workplace in Augsburg’
Having grown from a start-up to an international market player renowned for its comprehensive software solutions and superior customer support, baramundi today is consistently recognized as one of the best employers in Germany. The company has been ranked as a top 100 ‘Great Place to Work’ in 12 annual surveys of employees across Germany. The company celebrates its 25th anniversary with a traveling roadshow in a unique truck bringing the unmistakable baramundi spirit of inspiration and innovation to events throughout the country. Customers, prospects and others get to experience first-hand what baramundi is all about and share in the celebration of 25 years of IT excellence!