It’s a win-win situation

Pump motors were repeatedly failing at the Worms site. Each time they did, a service technician had to travel to repair the motors – or replace them straight away. Then, an employee had an ingenious idea: that the motors’ ball bearings could be replaced within a quarter of an hour. Using a tool that cost €270. “It’s an idea that not only quickly fixes a problem, but is also highly beneficial,” remarked Stephan, who is responsible for ideas management together with Gerlinde and Martina. Last year, the team received numerous ideas from individuals or groups. The year 1 benefit is around €1.1 million in total. But the savings alone aren’t the only things that count. “Ideas that increase safety at work or make everyday processes easier are just as valuable,” Stephan confirmed.

He added: “The workforce is contributing to the business’ success with their ideas”. “And you benefit yourself”. A share of the year 1 benefit is available to those who provide highly beneficial ideas. “It’s a win-win situation”. Creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, a sense of responsibility: all the CORE values come into play in ideas management. “Open communication is especially important,” commented Stephan. Because, without open communication, not all creative individuals would dare to make suggestions. At present, it is mainly Production colleagues who are submitting ideas; that one department is the source of 80% of ideas. “HR, IT, Procurement… Even in Administration, there’s also tremendous potential we can leverage.”

The team itself is leading by example. Until now, several ideas management systems historically existed side by side. They are set to be standardized in the coming year. Smaller changes have already been implemented. Since the end of October, video clips have explained how interested individuals can post their ideas online with submission groups. The roots of ideas management lie in the company suggestion scheme, which will have been around for 150 years this year – in German-speaking countries, at least. The concept is less common elsewhere. That’s why, in Asia, Röhm presents the “Recognition Award”, which is also to be introduced in North America in 2022. Not only does this award acknowledge good ideas; it also acts as affirmation of the likes of projects that have run exceptionally well.