From planning to maintenance, CKW Gebäudetechnik offers innovative solutions for photovoltaic and solar systems, battery storage, and solar contracting. Since the Energy Strategy 2050, the promotion of renewable energies has been a priority, which is why the solar technology industry is experiencing strong growth, thanks in part to financial support from the federal government and the cantons.
CKW is headquartered in Lucerne. With numerous offices, it serves not only Central Switzerland but also German-speaking Switzerland from Winterthur to Basel. CKW Gebäudetechnik's solar technology division employs around 40 people. The resource planning for the implementation of photovoltaic systems is characterized by numerous short assignments as well as long-term and planning-intensive work steps.
Pascal, where and how did you learn resource planning?
My studies at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) in the field of building electrical engineering were helpful in this regard. In addition, resource planning is an activity that requires a great deal of accuracy, flexibility, and good communication. Ultimately, I learned everything through learning by doing.
How did you hear about Vanillaplan?
I was searching online for resource planning software and came across Vanillaplan.
How did you do resource planning before Vanillaplan?
With Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Excel.
How did you get started with Vanillaplan?
We entered the basics into our dashboard together with Vanillaplan during the internal introduction phase. We also held an internal training session on the program. During this session, we communicated the date from which resource planning would be carried out entirely via Vanillaplan.
What were the challenges?
Ensuring that all users knew how to use the program and were aware of the possible applications of Vanillaplan.
Who is responsible for resource planning, and how is capacity and resource planning organized in your company?
At our company, each project manager plans the resources for their projects independently in Vanillaplan. At a weekly coordination meeting, the planning for the entire department is discussed, any changes are made, and decisions are finalized for the following week.
What do you like about Vanillaplan?
On the one hand, the drag-and-drop planning. On the other hand, the app, which keeps all employees informed at all times. And the range of possibilities that the program offers.
What is the biggest benefit for you?
The overview of capacity utilization, the fact that duplication can be avoided, and that construction personnel are always directly and immediately informed about their assignments.
Thank you very much for the interview, Pascal Schmid!
ckw.ch