Title: The harmonisation of the suggestion scheme in an international industrial enterprise

Authors: Pekka Tervonen; Harri Haapasalo; Juha-Matti Helisten

Addresses: Rautaruukki Plc, Rautaruukintie 155, P.O. Box 93, 92101 Raahe, Finland. ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 4610, 90014, Finland. ' 3 M Finland Industrial Markets, Lars Soncin kaari 6, 02600 Espoo, Finland

Abstract: The objective of this study was to create a harmonised operating model for the suggestion scheme of an international industrial enterprise. A constructive research approach was used in this research. The cornerstones of a successful suggestion scheme are the swift and equal evaluation of the suggestions, encouraging rewards, recognition, and feedback. A supportive organisational culture will make it easier for the suggestion scheme to succeed. The support of the management is crucial for the activities. The management must allocate resources to such activities as, for example, the training of personnel, the maintenance and promotion of the suggestion scheme's transparency, and the implementation of suggestions. It is even imperative that the management require results from the suggestion scheme, so that the activities can be continuously improved upon.

Keywords: continuous improvement; suggestion schemes; reward; recognition; feedback; organisational culture; employee involvement.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2012.049537

International Journal of Business Excellence, 2012 Vol.5 No.6, pp.599 - 619

Published online: 31 Jul 2014 *

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