Experiences in Building Self-Directed Teams for Operating World Class Assets, 2001 Coating Conference Proceedings

Timo Jortama--Stora Enso Fine Papers Oy’s WFC mill is located in Oulu, Finland. In 1995 the project of the new coated woodfree production, called Lumi 7, was begun with the capacity of 382,000 t/a. The technical target was set to build world-class assets. The targets for personnel were high, as well: the most effective modes of work. To achieve these targets, proceeding from two fronts was necessary: technical and personnel. The technical project succeeded as planned and the new mill started up in the April 1997. The personnel project was also successful, but it took about five years; the final stage was reached in the June 2000. The development had four stages: 1) Establishment of the basis, 2) Multi-skilled teams, 3) Specially trained teams and 4) Team management. The commitment of the organization through all levels was accomplished by having a common vision, measurable targets, agreements, working groups, public information, reporting, learning by doing, real changes step by step, and continuous working. As a result, the self-directed teams afford more mobility, resources and responsibility. This is the direction the development of the organization will take in the future, as well.