Scheme pushes productivity

The programme engages with all levels of staff Troy McParland A new scheme aimed at increasing productivity through high performance working practices is welcomed by local businesses.

The High Performance Working Initiative (HPWI) is a Department of Labour funded initiative, partnered with the new economic development agency, Business Hawke's Bay, to help firms engage specialist business consultants who can work with them to increase productivity.

It is a general approach to improving workplaces, involving high levels of employee engagement and enhanced workplace practices to raise productivity.

CEO of Business Hawke's Bay Murray Douglas said HPWI fitted perfectly with the regional organisation's goals to enable the growth of medium sized businesses. "We're advocating for well-trained and engaged staff who can deliver sustainable business growth, which in turn creates real jobs," he said.

Classic Sheepskins factory manager Troy McParland said they had embarked on the 12 month scheme as a way of utilising low cost initiatives to increase productivity.

"The programme engages with all levels of staff to promote ideas to enhance business performance and the external pressure helps management maintain momentum.

"We are confident by generating and acting on ideas from within the business we will empower our staff, helping to keep our costs low and productivity high, which is essential for us to compete effectively in our export markets," he said.

Business Improvement Specialists Glenn Manahi and Glenn Allison from Smarter Better Faster have been contracted to help 10 Hawke's Bay firms develop and implement the HPWI processes.

SBF will spend at least one day a month working with employees to "raise the floor" as well as well as promoting the sharing of ideas, technologies and results amongst the participating firms.

It is expected that a further 10 firms will enter the scheme in 2013 and 2014.

Plant manager of Medallion Petfoods In Central Hawke's Bay said he could see the benefits of the scheme, with real efficiency gains.

"It's an opportunity to take advantage of some exciting new possibilities for us in Central Hawke's Bay."