How can SME makers leverage their core strengths (economic, environmental and social) to create value for the future? To answer this question, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Midpoint Brabant, REWIN, Koninklijke Metaalunie and FME conducted the action research "Broad productivity through the eyes of the SME manufacturing industry in Central and West Brabant".
This two-year project consisted of four master classes for 22 SME makers. It resulted in an innovative dashboard. A practical tool that helps companies drive broad productivity. Multiple value creation strengthens the resilience and flexibility of SME makers in uncertain times. The research is part of Midpoint Brabant's Smarter Working programme, in collaboration with Avans University of Applied Sciences and with support from the province of North Brabant.
A new look at productivity
Labour productivity in the Dutch SME manufacturing industry is under pressure. Whereas large companies can more easily invest in growth and sustainability, smaller companies often lack the resources and knowledge to look at productivity more broadly.
Looking at new opportunities and risks
Sandra Doeze Jager, project leader and associate lecturer at Avans' Centre of Expertise Broad Prosperity & New Entrepreneurship, says: "This action research is helping SME-manufacturing companies for the first time to really look wider and identify new opportunities and risks. By applying Paul van Ruijten's multiple value creation model Impactful entrepreneurship in practice, they have concrete tools to not only grow financially, but also strengthen their entrepreneurial social and ecological impact."
Value creation in six areas
During the master classes, participants actively engaged with the multiple value creation model. Marleen Janssen Groesbeek, lecturer in Sustainable Finance & Accounting at Avans University of Applied Sciences, explains: "This model helps companies create value in six areas: financial, produced, intellectual, human, social and natural capital." Under the guidance of researchers and experts, entrepreneurs discovered how to apply broad productivity in their business operations. They applied the value creation model to increase their productivity, with an eye on sustainability and social impact. In addition, the track offered a valuable network, in which SMEs, researchers and experts learned from each other and new collaborations emerged.
Dashboard for SME makers
The insights from this action research have been translated into a dashboard that helps SME makers to get a sharper picture of opportunities and risks. This practical tool supports entrepreneurs in making strategic choices based on broad productivity and corporate social responsibility.
More focus on data
The value creation model has also helped high-tech company Smink Group. Research by Avans students found that more focus on predictive data and insight into customer fluctuations helps Smink Group respond more agile to market developments.
Sustainability and being a good employer
Steelstone shows that growth is not only about economics, but also about sustainability and being a good employer. By investing in green energy, recycling materials and a nice working environment, the company not only builds strong steel structures, but also a future-proof organisation.
Practical and concrete approach
The successful completion of this action research shows how SME manufacturing companies in central and western Brabant can take concrete steps towards a more sustainable future. Saskia Boelema, deputy of the province of North Brabant: "The approach is practical and concrete for SMEs. It ensures that organisations are prepared for CSRD sustainability reporting requirements. And it contributes to new earning capacity and a sustainable and inclusive manufacturing industry in Brabant."
Source: Midpoint Brabant
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The model helps companies create value in six areas: financial, produced, intellectual, human, social and natural capital.Marleen Janssen Groesbeek, lecturer Sustainable Finance & Accounting at Avans University of Applied Sciences
About Midpoint Brabant
Midpoint Brabant is the link between companies, educational and knowledge institutions, governments and civil society organisations in the Central Brabant region. With combined forces, we work towards a smart and sustainable region and the broad prosperity of our country. Our motto: entrepreneurship and innovation with people at the centre.
