Continuous learning ensures competitiveness
At Spectris we believe that continuous learning is a critical business requirement to ensure that we remain competitive in a changing environment. A focus on learning is essential for innovation: what we learn from our customers, from our associates and partners and from our own experiences contributes to the future direction of the business.
Within Spectris, knowledge sharing between the operating companies has led to various initiatives. Examples include better business practices such as shortening the sales cycle, reducing inventories and product development times; looking at macro-economic factors such as how to adapt to the impact of globalisation; and supplying information on how to do business in specific industries, such as pharmaceuticals and cement, or different territories such as China, South America and India.
Knowledge sharing is supplemented by a network of external alliances and partnerships which bring additional expertise to the business. For example, Malvern works with a number of universities on joint research projects into particle characterisation. PANalytical has just signed a cooperation agreement with DSM Research Analytical Services in The Netherlands which offers new possibilities for the application of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Fusion is involved in a number of research projects, one of which culminated in a 3-D modelling tool for the UV curing of objects such as cars.
Our companies hold seminars and courses, not only for their customers to learn about specific products but also to understand how to use the products to achieve greater payback for their company. PANalytical’s application courses not only provide an opportunity to gain knowledge of their products but also serve as meeting points where specialists from the analytical X-ray industry discuss ideas on the theory and practical application of XRD and XRF techniques. At the Brüel & Kjær dedicated University seminars, advanced courses and product training are held to spread sound and vibration-related knowledge worldwide. Microscan’s online University includes web-based courses and seminars on bar codes and their applications as well as technical courses relating specifically to the company’s scanners. Particle Measuring Systems’ Particle College provides seminars on the fundamentals of particle counting and its applications. Companies such as Red Lion Controls offer on-line conferencing and scheduled training sessions to customers via the internet. In addition, many Spectris employees are recognised experts in their respective fields and are often asked to speak at seminars and conferences, or to advise on new international standards and directives.
As part of our investment in management training, a new initiative will soon see senior managers undergo training in product management with IMD, one of the world’s leading business schools. The 2003 annual Presidents Meeting to be held in Lausanne, Switzerland, will also be supported by IMD, with lectures and workshops to help the heads of our global businesses to better understand the companies’ leadership roles to enhance and exploit competitive advantage.
Acting on what we have learnt is fundamental in converting knowledge into value: implementation is key.
Hans Nilsson
Chief Executive