How to overcome change challenges: Case roastery investment
- Jori Kosonen
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 19
Case 1: Construction of a new production facility
nt journey, I have had the opportunity to lead large-scale projects and programs, including the construction of two greenfield production plants and several international company acquisitions. The fundamental characteristics of project and program management - uniqueness, uncertainty, and complexity – always increase both the likelihood and scale of challenges and risks in demanding investments.
Major investment – huge change for factory workers
The transition from factory that had served for decades and was partly outdated to a new environmentally friendly facility involved brand new processes, working methods, equipment and machines - an abundance of new learning in a new technological environment. The change affected mostly the factory’s practical professionals, whose skills were critical to achieving the desired production volume and quality in the new facility. For operational staff, the everyday change was smaller but the capability for change management and its importance was critical.
How to ensure acceptance and successful Implementation of change
Communicate openly from the start of the project: why, what, when
Use diverse communication channels: organize feedback collection and response sessions, information meetings, personal discussions and utilize active intranet communication as well as other digital tools
Be present and accessible to build trust: create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome to ask questions, express concerns and receive updates on progress
Ensure comprehensive change management training for supervisors to support their teams
Provide extensive training processes for learning and mastering new processes and equipment
Make leadership visible: engage everybody involved with open discussions and collaboration - to ensure daily support in solving challenges and smooth transfer of knowledge into practice
Concrete results
The factory experts were satisfied with the new, functional and safe working environment
The factory was up and running on schedule and within the targeted budget
Environmental and stakeholder goals were excellently achieved
Added value of an experienced expert
In my experience, strong expertise has a significant importance and effect in ensuring smooth implementation of projects as well as raising and transferring the necessary skill levels in customer organizations. Successful investment and change require professional project management - "which culminates in leadership, interaction, communication and coaching competencies."
Marja Laitinen
Experienced Project Management and Leadership Professional, trainer and coach
Talent Network
