Agile Ways of Working for Vestforbrænding

Context

Vestforbrænding is the largest municipally owned waste management company in Denmark. It is owned by 19 municipalities in the Copenhagen area and North Zealand. Its main activity is a large incineration plant in Ejby near Glostrup, a combined heat and power plant. The plant produces electricity equivalent to the consumption of about 80,000 households and district heating for approximately 75,000 households.

Vestforbrænding recognized the need for agile methodologies to enhance collaboration, learning, and transparency within its operations. Eager to embrace a more adaptive approach to work, it sought to implement agile methods across various departments.

The primary objective was to cultivate a culture of agility within the organisation, empowering teams to collaborate better and respond effectively to changing demands.

Journey

Our approach focused on simplicity and flexibility, understanding that each team within Vestforbrænding operates in unique contexts with distinct needs. The following steps were taken:

Needs assessment: We worked closely with each team or department's manager to understand each department's specific challenges and opportunities, ensuring tailored solutions.

Training and workshops: A series of seminars and training sessions were organized for key teams, including HR, Communications, The Learning Center, Work Environment, Sustainability, and Emergency teams. These sessions equipped participants with foundational agile principles, tools, and techniques.

Customized Implementation: Recognizing the importance of adaptability, we facilitated a collaborative process wherein teams were encouraged to experiment with agile practices in their respective workflows. This allowed them to identify what worked best for their unique circumstances.

Ongoing Support and Coaching: Teams were provided Continuous support throughout the implementation phase. We conducted follow-ups with teams to offer guidance, address challenges, and refine approaches as needed.

Results

Enhanced Collaboration: Teams experienced improved communication and collaboration, breaking down silos and fostering cross-functional synergy.

Continuous Learning: Agile practices facilitated a culture of continuous learning and improvement, empowering teams to adapt and respond to feedback and changing requirements.

Increased Transparency: Transparent workflows and open communication channels enhanced visibility into project progress, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions.