When the
lighting group Fagerhult decided to implement Antura Projects in 2010, one
major criterion was the ability to grow with the tool. Seven years on, growth
within the group remains high, driven particularly by the ongoing technical
change within lighting, where LEDs are seen as the most energy-efficient
technology for the future. Great demand for innovative lighting systems calls
for continuous product development, both to enhance existing products and to develop
new ones.
–Our
product development is much affected by legislation and new technology. It is
incredibly important for our products to meet the latest safety requirements
and standards, says Håkan Elvingson.
Production
has to take account factors such as environmental impact and electrical safety
as well as the customer’s specific needs. Furthermore, it is very important for
the lighting systems used to integrate well into the setting where they are to
operate. For example:in hospitals the effect of lighting on the health of both
patients and staff needs to be carefully considered, while fittings in sports
halls need to be very robust; and utdoor lighting needs to satisfy the needs of
road users in various types of vehicle as well as people using sidewalks and
bike paths. Before any delivery, comprehensive light measurements and quality
tests are undertaken to assure the quality and efficiency of the light fittings
in a given setting.
A common
project tool for reliable international delivery
The
business is run mostly from Sweden, with some production in China where the
market is growing at record speed. Running all development projects related to
the Fagerhult brand in the same system ensures that the projects proceed
according to the project model established within the company. This also makes
it easier to create and maintain common processes, regardless of role, function
or geographical location. Knowledge transfer and exchange of experience are
also more organized. All of this creates the right conditions for quality and
reliable delivery.
–All
project-related work within the Fagerhult brand is covered by Antura Projects,
which is very valuable to us. A common project tool provides a good overview of
our product development projects and facilitates global cooperation, says
Håkan Elvingson.
In his role
with strategic responsibility for project activities, Håkan Elvingson spends a lot
of time on monitoring and analysis. He is particularly pleased with the
document management within the project tool and the facility for reporting time
and results. Integration with the finance system makes it easier to monitor
budgets, outcomes and forecasts. Future integration of the group’s
time-stamping system with time reporting in Antura Projects would make this
task even more efficient. The possibility of extended functionality and the
continuous dialog and exchange of experience with Antura’s consultants are
greatly appreciated:
–It is
always rewarding to come to the annual event ‘Antura Day’ and pick up ideas for our work going
forward. Antura Projects is a really important system for us and I see great
benefits in using it more widely in our business, says Håkan Elvingson.