Flexibility as a promise: an interview with Dr Torben Birker
For TECOSIM, flexibility is a key promise to its clients. In this interview, Dr Torben Birker, Member of the TECOSIM Group Management Board, explains how the engineering services provider increases client satisfaction thanks to its prompt, diverse solution proposals. To ensure this is the case, the team draws on both international resources and its employees’ specific expertise. Flexibility also shapes the development of new products and services by allowing employees the freedom to innovate. This dynamic not only improves project work, but also promotes a varied, global working environment.
Torben Birker, what exactly does flexibility mean for TECOSIM and what can clients expect?
Flexibility is crucial for client satisfaction and therefore a core promise by TECOSIM. More specifically, this means our clients may expect us not only to respond to requests promptly but also offer several solution proposals or implementation approaches. This concerns the resources and expertise that we use among other things. We work on an international scale and always select the best solution for the client, whether in relation to costs or our employees’ know-how. Our offers also include reasonable project ramp-up and ramp-down phases.
How is flexibility integrated into the development of new products and services?
We give our employees a free rein to develop ideas. For instance, we provide the time and technical resources and assist them through training. We also have a strong network with relevant business partners such as software or platform providers. We draw on these partners as needed to provide our clients with the best service. Some years ago, we established in-house competence circles comprising the best experts worldwide. These teams develop ideas and implementation approaches for the transition towards sustainable energy and transport.
How does flexibility further improve client satisfaction?
We continuously incorporate customer feedback into projects and processes. We listen to our clients attentively and carry out surveys. This leads to a measurable increase in client satisfaction.
How does the value flexibility characterise the culture and work environment that new employees encounter at TECOSIM?
We are the right choice for engineers who love variety and want to form part of an international group. Our employees work in varying project teams for different clients. Their work environment may also change – their desk may be in one of our branches, on site at a client’s or even in another country. We are represented in six countries on three continents. Flexibility also means thinking outside the box and identifying multiple paths to a good solution. On the flip side, we are also flexible as an employer. We always have an open ear for our employees’ needs and, depending on the situation and project, will find ways for them to reconcile work and private life.
Can you provide an example where a flexible approach to project implementation resulted in measurable success?
Sure. We are currently developing a new electric vehicle for an international client. TECOSIM employees in four countries are working together on this project. We flexibly assign the employees who are most suited for each specific task. This way, we ensure the best possible results and the most attractive price for the client. The great endorsement for me in this case is that our client has continuously increased the project volume since it started.
And how does flexibility help to overcome future challenges?
We adapt our portfolio and services flexibly to meet demand and constantly develop our services further. This is also accomplished thanks to a trust-based working relationship with new and existing partners.
Many thanks for talking to us, Dr Torben Birker.
