Case Studies

• Himatsingka Seide Ltd.: Bangalore, India
• Launched Vetter: October 2023
• Employees: Over 10K

BACKGROUND

Company Overview: Himatsingka Seide Ltd. is a globally integrated textile major involved in designing, developing, manufacturing, distributing, and retailing a wide array of textile products with a workforce of over 10K employees.

PROJECT LEADERSHIP

To boost employee engagement and innovation at Himatsingka, Shrikant Himatsingka, the Executive Vice Chairman and Managing Director, proposed the implementation of the Idea Box platform. The project was subsequently led by Major (Retd.) Kumud Kumar, President - Human Resources & Group CHRO, and Shreya, Senior Manager of Human Resources (Learning & Organization Development).

THE CHALLENGE

Pre-Vetter Scenario: Before partnering with Vetter, Himatsingka employees mainly shared ideas at the Town Hall communications meetings. However, this method was not ‘always available’ like Vetter and was insufficient to meet the company’s needs.

• Limited Availability
• Lack of a Formal System
• Decreased Employee Engagement
• Inconsistent Implementation
• Operational Hurdles

The absence of an Idea box meant there were few opportunities for employees to share their insights and ideas, particularly those on the frontlines who interact directly with production processes and customer needs. A structured mechanism was needed to enhance employee engagement and morale.

Implementing a centralized system for gathering and analyzing Idea would help Himatsingka make consistent changes across its various departments and locations, improving the company's ability to respond swiftly to operational challenges and market demands.

THE VETTER SOLUTION

Transition to an Online System: Himatsingka sought to address these challenges by partnering with Vetter to implement an online Idea box, officially launched in October 2023 following a successful pilot program.

Features and Implementation:

• Easy Accessibility: Vetter provided a systematic process with defined template to instantly access platform.
• Increased Awareness: Customized posters were placed around the plant, and information about the new system was included in the company newsletter and daily huddles.

Himatsingka's adoption of Vetter's online Idea system has not only streamlined idea submission but has also sparked a wave of innovative proposals from its workforce. Ideas like hands-free drinking water dispensing taps to conserve water, a plastic-free pallet transit solution, and in-house production of cloth bags highlight the company's commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency.

Additionally, we introduced the Kudos Card Appreciation Idea in our workplace, which has boosted morale, and created a positive work environment. This Idea has led to higher motivation, a more positive workplace culture, better employee engagement and retention, encouraged the right behaviours, and improved relationships between managers and employees. These initiatives not only showcase the creativity and problem-solving capabilities of the team but also contribute to Himatsingka's broader goals of environmental stewardship and continuous improvement across its operations.

Himatsingka's adoption of Vetter's online Idea system has ushered in a new era of innovation and efficiency within the company. Employees have embraced the opportunity to contribute ideas that enhance sustainability efforts, improve operational processes, and promote a safer workplace environment. These initiatives reflect Himatsingka's commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and environmental responsibility. By harnessing the collective creativity and problem-solving skills of its workforce, Himatsingka not only drives operational excellence but also advances its broader goals of sustainability and employee well-being across all facets of its operations.

CONCLUSION

Himatsingka's partnership with Vetter has transformed their approach to continuous improvement and employee engagement. By shifting to an online Idea system, Himatsingka has not only realized substantial cost savings but has also fostered a culture of innovation and inclusivity, ensuring that every employee's voice can contribute to the company's ongoing success.