| Running a successful company combines qualified employees and an effective, active management team. A constructive management style allows employees to participate in the process of optimising the company’s achievements. They follow the aim of the collective organisation and assure a competitive position within the market. ‘Investors in People’ is a European standard in which companies are recognised for their achievements in applying processes to the way they work. Since December 2007 WILA Lichttechnik GmbH has been accredited with IIP recognition.
IIP originates in the UK; created as a project by the British Government in 1993, today IIP is a tool for human resource development all over Europe. “Our organisation in the UK has held this accreditation since 1997” reports Andreas Henrich, CEO WILA Lichttechnik GmbH. “IIP is not as well known in this country as for example the ISO 9000 quality standard, and as one of the first companies in Germany to receive IIP accreditation, we have used this standard to aid us in continuously advancing and improving our business. Simultaneously we clarify the high European level and establish a border between us and markets with poor labour conditions.” The IIP certification has been granted for a period of 3 years, after which time the company will once again undergo a vigorous testing period.
Transparent Processes
When WILA was taken over by its current shareholders in 2005 the management style changed. “In the past the different departments did not know much about the operation area of others”, says Henrich “Today all processes show a high degree of transparency.” Employees will be informed about the company’s current situation and the ongoing development on a regular basis. Furthermore the business plan is accessible for every member of the company.
“WILA stands for Service, Quality and Innovation. We can keep this benchmark because our employees will always be further educated and trained.” says the CEO. During the IIP accreditation process the company developed a Human Resource Development plan which included individual training for every employee – orientated along the company aims. Thereby WILA analysed among other things the benefits of further education.
Regular Communication
Regular communication is important. The management team meets every second week, departmental meetings are held once a month and the company meets as a whole every quarter. Employees are encouraged to participate in company decisions and to come forward with new ideas for improvement. 12 employees, who act independent from the management team, supervise an IIP-forum to implement and communicate wishes, meanings and initiatives from colleagues. A project scheme for new ideas and suggestions is currently being implemented. Responsible action is not only part of the management style: WILA products hold the “efficiency plus” seal. They are made out of ecologically compatible, authentic and durable material. For years the company has set a benchmark on innovative and economical light production – in combination with power supply units, which increase energy efficiency and extend the lights durability.
The current catalogue 2008 has been produced ecologically friendly; printed with mineral oil free ink on PEFC paper – PEFC attests sustainable forest cultivation. This is a fundamental activity in which WILA have acted to help protect the environment.
About WILA
WILA Lichttechnik GmbH, Iserlohn, develops innovative light solutions for a modern workplace. With its “Intelligent Light” concept WILA focuses on the optimal balance of light quality, high design standards and sustainable environment – to the good of mankind. The company, established in 1857, focuses on high standards of Quality, Service and Innovation. In cooperation with light planners and architects WILA designs customised solutions to receive more light- and life quality for office, administration and education buildings. WILA Lichttechnik is an international operating company and present in 35 countries, with its main focus on the European markets. The company trains its employees and is characterised by its efficient Management team – therefore WILA has been awarded with the “ Investor in People” label.
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