Family run tech firm sets the benchmark for tailor-made IT solutions and innovative products
Leading software development firm OKsystem is blazing a trail through the public and private sectors courtesy of its outstanding advanced technology solutions
With the Czech Republic transforming its strong industrial base towards a knowledge-based economy, highly successful OKsystem is seeking to build on its work in the digitalization of state services by expanding its impressive international presence, as Chairman, Martin Procházka, explains.
Please tell us about your crucial role in the development of U.S.-based site www.vacaymyway.com.
The founders [of the vacation accommodation site] saw the opportunity to establish something new. They envisioned the system, but needed to find somebody who could develop it.
One of our former employees recommended OKsystem and our abilities and expertise to the founders. Initially, we only intended to create the code for the application that would be invented and designed completely in the U.S.
However, we moved from the position of coders to designers, analysts, and partners of the project. Over time, they understood we could add more value and we were entrusted with delivering the design and complete development of the system. It has been a great honor and we were offered the opportunity to become not just a supplier, but also a partner in the project.
We made a reasonable investment and continued the development in exchange for shares. I became a member of the board of VacayMyWay and am now responsible for overseeing the future development, influencing strategy and design of the system.
What about your global solution Checkbot which focuses on robots?
This project also began in an informal way. One of our employees was a friend of a technician at the Czech branch of Yaskawa, part of the global leading producer of industrial robots.
This technician recognized an opportunity for specialized software that could help clients. Together, we realized that this solution could be replicated across customers and that we needed to create a suitable software product.
We developed an application to monitor the work of robots online and perform real-time analysis of operations, tasks, signals, maintenance functions, production features and more.
Checkbot is now used in 15 countries and in 2024 alone we completed our first client installations in the U.S., Italy, Finland and France. The product is very relevant and trendy. It represents an exciting opportunity for us.
“The opportunities for investors are highly rewarding. The mastery of technology and IT expertise is high, but the cost of workers still competitive.”
Martin Procházka, Chairman, OKsystem
Image credit: OKsystem
Making business operations simple and easy to handle is a key aim. What makes OKsystem competitive in this regard?
As a partner of leading global technological companies, we embrace new technologies, development systems, databases, artificial intelligence (AI) and more. We are very flexible and follow the latest technological advances. Innovations are quickly integrated into our projects. This adaptable approach gives us a significant advantage.
We have been profitable for all but one of our 34 financial years and are frequently approached by global investors, but wish to continue as a Czech family business. We have more than 500 employees and an annual revenue of about $45 million. We provide a very wide range of products and services and are successful in several segments.
Investor appetite for tech companies is higher than ever, with AI at the top of that list for prospectors. What are the challenges for software firms in 2025?
The challenges concern how to use the new technology and how to employ AI, robotics and other trends into the existing and future solutions. However, the basic requirements remain the same.
The software should be user-friendly and not require complex training. When the software is used by a greater number of clients, it needs to maintain its response time, be flexible and its user interface updated smoothly. These are important features.
What is your policy for talent spotting, training and retaining staff?
The IT job market has become highly dynamic, making it challenging to attract and retain specialists. Despite the talent shortage, we are successful in this area. We care about our employees, have a great benefits system and maintain a good company culture.
Should U.S. investors focus more on the trade and investment opportunities taking place in your country?
The opportunities for investors are highly rewarding. The mastery of technology and IT expertise is high, but the cost of workers still competitive.
This is why many global companies are establishing their development centers in Prague and Brno, and also why enterprises like OKsystem compete with them for experts. It is a good prospect for investors and there are still plenty of opportunities to expand.
What is your main goal for the company for 2025?
To be as successful internationally as we are nationally. We have the ability to use our expertise and experience at an international level, building on our work with international projects such as vacaymyway.com and Checkbot.
What is your final message to the readers of Foreign Policy on why they should choose the Czech Republic for business and to invest?
Prague is one of the best and most beautiful cities in the world. It has a great history and a good environment, with very flexible and capable people. This is something that supports international business and is one of the many reasons to invest in the Czech Republic.
Download the PDF