As part of our process development initiative, the design and implementation of Cargotec’s business processes and support processes continued during 2011. This involved establishing process governance in support of the implementation and continuous improvement of processes. Common processes enable the identification of synergy benefits and create a uniform, customer-driven approach shared by everyone in Cargotec. A common way of working also brings more transparency to the company’s activities, and helps in sharing important information throughout the organisation.
To support common processes, Cargotec began to build a common business system platform. This is one of our key development projects over the next few years and our largest process implementation effort. Setting up a global and transparent system will help manage resources and facilitate the flow of information between all business functions across the organisation. In 2011, the first countries to prepare for roll-out of the new system were Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Austria in the EMEA region. More countries will follow in clusters during 2012: the goal is to have the common Cargotec business platform in place globally by the end of 2014.
Internal clarity is also being sought through another strategic initiative: the creation of a project management culture and competencies based on the Cargotec project model. Common project management methods and processes enable effective resourcing and ensure that all development projects support strategy execution.
Internal clarity is closely linked to our human resources management and strategy, also known as Cargotec's people strategy, which is further enhancing Cargotec's strong focus on leadership development and employee engagement. In 2012, effective change management and internal communications will play an important role in the implementation of our new operating model.
Strategy communication formed an integral part of enhancing internal clarity. Our strategy was shared with employees with the support of a key message – our strategy is up to people making it happen, and as a company Cargotec is as strong as its people. This message was communicated in team meetings throughout the organisation and directly linked to our personal development planning processes.