What are self-directed work teams ?

Self-directed work teams are the most advanced form of empowerment, offering a waterproof answer to the need for increased flexibility and responsiveness. Typically members of self-directed work teams plan and schedule work, take action on problems, make production and/or service related decisions and handle job assignments in an autonomous way.

How does Stanwick help me and my organisation to develop self-directed work teams?

1. We help you gain insight in a clear 'proof of the need' concerning a team-based organisation and an aligned overall strategy.

2. The start of the change process is based upon a structured assessment using the TAO methodology. The TAO methodology is a unique, integrated and well-tested approach developed by Stanwick to assess and implement teambased organisations (T=Teamwork, A=Autonomy, O=Organisation).

3. Based upon the results of the assessment a concrete vision and a change path are defined by the management. This results in a committed milestone plan. The implementation process will typically consist of 4 sub-phases allowing teams to follow 'a journey to increased empowerment'.

4. Our consultants support you in the development of your teams towards sound, autonomous units with sharp targets, clear roles and pragmatic work agreements.

5. In order to prepare the first line managers, a development program (CTC: Coach-the-Coach) is set up. The new 'team leader role' differentiates significantly from the traditional role of the supervisor ; after all supervising the day-to-day operations of the team will be largely done by the team members themselves. The team leader will mainly focus on boundary issues such as interface problems with other teams, representing the customer, supplier interactions, bringing training opportunities to the team.

6. Finally, in close collaboration with you we will consolidate the new developed organisational structure in order to secure all change efforts.

Recent client projects: Degussa (Antwerp), Interbrew (Leuven), Janssen Pharmaceutica (Beerse), Hercules (Dordrecht, NL), Philips Lighting (Turnhout, Lommel), Plastic Omnium Group (F)

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