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RMIT
Transforming Work Culture: RMIT University Implement Adaptive Ways of Working
SoudCoh partnered with RMIT University to integrate Adaptive Ways of Working (AWOW), fostering agility and collaboration across departments, resulting in a 208% increase in productivity and a 25% reduction in defect rates university-wide.
Date
March 4, 2024
Topic
RMIT

In a dynamic partnership between SoudCoh and RMIT University, a transformative journey unfolded as Adaptive Ways of Working (AWOW) was integrated into the fabric of the institution. Unlike conventional methodologies that prescribe rigid frameworks, AWOW offered a flexible approach tailored to meet the diverse needs of teams and departments. Together, SoudCoh and RMIT University embarked on a collaborative endeavour to foster a culture of agility, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Through a series of strategic interventions and targeted initiatives, AWOW permeated every facet of the organization, paving the way for unprecedented growth and innovation.

"What we were striving for ultimately was not just different approaches to achieving speed in delivery, but actually tackling the perceptions that people had about the way they performed, too – a shift in mindset. SoudCoh were vital to the breakthrough that we had with our teams,” says the University.

Key Highlights

  • Flexible Framework: AWOW provided a versatile framework adaptable to various workflows and organisational structures.
  • Strategic Implementation: Rather than imposing standardized tools and processes, SoudCoh worked closely with specific teams to identify areas for improvement and tailor AWOW principles accordingly.
  • Exemplar Team Pilot: The selection of an 'exemplar' team, such as the ServiceNow team, served as a testbed for piloting AWOW methodologies, allowing for iterative refinement and continuous learning.
  • Leadership Empowerment: A dedicated AWOW leadership team was established to champion the adoption of AWOW across departments, driving alignment and fostering collaboration.
  • Measurable Impact: The adoption of AWOW resulted in a significant increase in productivity, with teams delivering a third more valuable work. Additionally, quality improvements were evident, with a reduction in defect/technical task rates by 25%.

As the journey unfolded, the impact of AWOW reverberated across RMIT University, transcending traditional boundaries and catalysing organisational excellence. Through a blend of strategic foresight, collaborative effort, and a commitment to continuous improvement, SoudCoh and RMIT University laid the foundation for a future where agility, innovation, and adaptability reign supreme. In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education and beyond, AWOW stands as a testament to the power of embracing change and unlocking the full potential of teams and organisations.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving workplace dynamics, organisations are increasingly seeking flexible and efficient methods of operation. RMIT University, a renowned institution at the forefront of education and innovation, recognised the need to adapt to the changing landscape of work. This is the story of how SoudCoh partnered with RMIT University to implement Adaptive Ways of Working (AWOW), bridging the gap between traditional waterfall methodologies and agile practices.

The Project

AWOW served as the conduit for RMIT University to navigate the complexities of modern work practices. Unlike rigid methodologies that prescribe specific tools and processes, AWOW offered a flexible framework tailored to meet the unique needs of each team and department. SoudCoh collaborated closely with RMIT University to identify areas where AWOW could drive significant improvements, focusing on enhancing productivity, collaboration, and quality of work.

Implementation Approach

SoudCoh approached the implementation of AWOW at RMIT University with a strategic mindset. Rather than imposing standardized tools and processes, the focus was on working with specific teams where AWOW principles could yield maximum benefits. This approach ensured that the transition to AWOW was seamless and aligned with the organization's existing workflows and culture. Training and uplift sessions were provided to teams as needed, empowering them to embrace the new way of working.

Exemplar Team and Pilot

The project commenced with the selection of an 'exemplar' team to pilot the AWOW methodology. The ServiceNow team, responsible for administering and developing RMIT University's ServiceNow platform, served as the initial testbed. Utilising an Agile 'test, learn, and improve' approach, SoudCoh and RMIT University collaborated closely to pilot AWOW principles within the ServiceNow team, serving as a model for the broader organization.

AWOW Leadership Team

Central to the success of AWOW implementation was the establishment of an effective AWOW leadership team. SoudCoh worked alongside RMIT University to create a dedicated leadership team tasked with guiding and championing the adoption of AWOW across various departments and teams. This leadership team played a pivotal role in driving alignment, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the successful rollout of AWOW initiatives.

Impact and Benefits

The benefits of AWOW were profound and far-reaching, extending beyond IT to non-IT areas such as finance, human resources, occupational health and safety (OHS), facilities, and campus services. The university-wide adoption of AWOW resulted in a remarkable 208% increase in productivity, with teams delivering a third more valuable work. Additionally, quality improvements were evident, with a 25% reduction in defect/technical task rates.

Conclusion

The collaboration between SoudCoh and RMIT University exemplifies the transformative power of Adaptive Ways of Working in modern organisations. By embracing flexibility, collaboration, and continuous improvement, RMIT University achieved significant enhancements in productivity, quality, and value across its workforce. As organizations continue to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of work, AWOW stands as a beacon of innovation, empowering teams to thrive in a dynamic and evolving environment.