Efficient Internal Communication for Companies With Mobile Employees

Initial Situation

Lauber IWISA AG was founded in 1933 by Alfred Lauber in Raron, Canton of Valais. The company expanded 30 years later by opening its first branch in Naters. Over time, Lauber IWISA AG grew to employ approximately 200 people, focusing on the planning and construction of buildings as efficient complete systems. The company's diverse service offerings include consulting, planning, and installation, reflecting the decentralized nature of its workforce.

Objectives

The management team at Lauber IWISA AG recognized the need for a more efficient internal communication system to ensure important information was shared quickly and consistently across its dispersed workforce. They aimed to eliminate issues caused by an overload of email communication and prevent critical information from being lost. Additionally, the company sought to distribute information selectively to specific departments or user groups and make vital documents easily accessible to all employees.

Implementation

In early 2018, Lauber IWISA AG implemented the IWISA StaffApp to streamline internal communication. This app allowed the company to distribute internal news, information about employee events, and conduct small surveys. A key feature of the app was the ability to create user groups, enabling targeted communication for specific departments. It also provided integrated document storage, ensuring that important materials, such as occupational safety guidelines, were readily accessible. The app also served as an address book for employees.

Outcome

The introduction of StaffApp has improved communication within Lauber IWISA AG by allowing targeted dissemination of information and ensuring that essential documents are easily available. While the app has been largely successful, there is still room for improvement. Pascal Ebener, a member of the management board, notes the potential for further optimization by translating the app into multiple languages to accommodate the diverse workforce, many of whom do not speak German. This initiative is expected to increase the app's usage and further enhance communication within the company.