Successful at Viessmann with agile change support
How frontrunner projects propel transformation
As a leading manufacturer in heating, Viessmann Climate Solutions redefined itself in 2019/20 as an integrated provider of intelligent climate control, heating, and energy solutions. A new Target Operating Model (TOM) was introduced to support this shift, but full adoption required agile change support in 2021/22 to achieve lasting transformation.
To kick-start this change, a Transformation Management Office (TMO) was established, taking charge of central project management, planning, and change communication. An agile, iterative approach with weekly stand-ups, regular check-ins, and flexible reprioritization of work packages enabled the team to quickly adapt to unexpected challenges, including geopolitical impacts and supply chain disruptions in Eastern Europe. Through Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), the TMO tracked and communicated project progress and the effects of change measures across the organization.
Two primary levers proved crucial for the project’s success:
- By immediately applying the new Target Operating Model within key ongoing development and product projects, Viessmann catalyzed change from the ground up. Central to the TOM were two newly introduced roles, designed to lead cross-functional teams collaboratively in an agile tandem. Instead of theoretical workshops, these new collaboration models were directly embedded into the teams’ daily work through close, practical support. With rapid feedback and learning cycles, the approach was gradually extended to additional projects and product lines.
- A digital wiki was created on the Viessmann intranet to document all changes centrally, making them accessible across the organization. More than just an information source, this wiki helped to humanize the change process. Teams shared their experiences and insights from the new collaborative model through video messages, offering a relatable narrative for others to follow along their change journey.
These measures not only stabilised the teams and improved efficiency, but also contributed to a significant reduction in absenteeism and staff turnover. The wider organisation was activated, and the transformation was successfully driven forward.
"The implementation of the new Target Operating Model, supported by agile change practices, has helped us to foster a culture of transparency and collaboration."
Frauke v. Polier
CHRO and Member of the Executive Board
Facts about the Company
Viessmann is a global leader in heating, cooling and air conditioning. Founded in 1917 in Allendorf, Germany, Viessmann has evolved into a global group offering innovative, sustainable energy solutions. Its product range includes state-of-the-art heating systems, industrial energy systems, cooling solutions and air conditioning solutions, all designed to optimize energy use and reduce CO2 emissions. With over 12,000 employees and a presence in 74 countries, Viessmann is renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Combining traditional engineering expertise with cutting-edge technology, the company meets the increasing demands of the energy transition.
In April 2023, Viessmann announced the acquisition of its Climate Solutions division by US-based Carrier Global. This division, which includes heat pump production, accounts for 85% of Viessmann's revenue and plays a central role in Carrier’s growth strategy for residential and commercial climate solutions in Europe.
Highlights
Broadening perspectives - further topics
Successful organisations are characterised by a common direction, effective positioning, committed employees, efficient managers, high-performing teams, a constructive culture and experience with change. These characteristics are closely interlinked and reinforce each other.
Change Management
Significant decisions within organizations often require profound change, whether triggered by strategic shifts, restructuring, efficiency programs, acquisitions, or organizational transitions. Successful change is more than executing a blueprint; at its core, it involves people and the ways they must adapt their behaviors and collaborate differently. True change succeeds only when both elements—systems and people—align.
TOM: Setting the Foundation for Success
All prerequisites for effective sales work are in place: a new organizational structure with business units (BUs) clearly focused on customer segments and corresponding sales roles; integrated sales management for channel and product management; and carefully developed target processes within a process framework. Additionally, dedicated change managers are on hand. The initial launch proceeds smoothly—yet the anticipated performance improvement has yet to be realized.
Agile Consulting
Agile working is a flexible, adaptive method characterized by short, iterative development cycles and a strong focus on customer needs. It is built on principles of self-organization and continuous learning, with teams regularly reflecting on and adjusting their approach to become more efficient and effective.
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