Operational Risk Management in Demergers
Manufacturing Sector
Complex demergers introduce operational challenges that can derail productivity, disrupt services, and compromise data integrity. KanBo provides a structured platform to manage IT separation, maintain communication flow, and ensure scalable operations throughout the demerger process—from pilot to full rollout.
Company’s Overview
Industry:
Manufacturing
Key Focus Areas:
800 (split between two new entities)
Size:
4 facilities
Challenges:
Operational stability, secure transitions, future scalability
Stakeholder Perspective
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
As the COO of a multinational manufacturer undergoing a complex demerger, I witnessed operational synergies breaking down, fragmented communications, and data security concerns. KanBo was chosen for its ability to provide a structured, transparent workflow and centralized task management platform to minimize disruption.
How the Organization Uses KanBo
KanBo offers a comprehensive toolset that enables organizations to manage every phase of a demerger while maintaining continuity, ensuring data protection, and preparing for future growth. Key functional areas include:
I. System Separation & Dependency Management
- Spaces & Cards: Map all IT separation tasks and identify cross-system dependencies.
- Task Status Views: Monitor progress and deadlines for critical system shutdowns.
- Integration Roadmap: Track ERP and database decoupling milestones.
II. Shared Services Monitoring & Transition
- Dashboards: Maintain visibility into shared services like HR and Finance.
- Gradual Handover Cards: Track transfer tasks and responsibilities.
- Cross-Entity Collaboration: Enable secure coordination during overlap periods.
III. Data Security & Document Control
- Role-Based Permissions: Limit access to sensitive files during system splits.
- Document Storage: Store SOPs, operational policies, and compliance data.
- GDPR/ISO Compliance: Ensure security and legal integrity throughout the demerger.
IV. Regulatory & Compliance Assurance
- Audit Trail: Activity Streams provide real-time visibility into decisions and actions.
- Policy Review Cards: Schedule compliance reviews tied to system transfers.
- Exportable Logs: Generate evidence for regulatory audits.
V. Employee Engagement & Communication Continuity
- Notifications & Spaces: Ensure teams receive updates based on role and region.
- Feedback Loops: Use structured Spaces for open communication and change adoption.
- HR Communication Workflows: Maintain clarity during internal transitions.
VI. Future Scalability & Change Enablement
- SOP Preservation: Archive knowledge to support both new entities.
- Brake Point Momentum: Transition from pilot to full rollout with structured evaluations.
- Post-Demerger Training: KanBo-led sessions ensure long-term adoption.
Roadmap for Implementation
Planning and Setup
Pilot Phase
Pilot Evaluation
Full Rollout
Project Highlights
Full Rollout Timeline:
18 months
Tool Integrations:
Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, ERP Systems
Outcomes:
30% downtime reduction, 20% increase in data security, 25% higher employee engagement
Real-World Applications in KanBo
IT Separation Roadmap
Cards track and assign tasks for infrastructure decoupling, completed ahead of schedule.
Shared Services Transition Boards
Spaces monitor progressive transfer of internal functions to new organizational structures.
Knowledge Repository
SOPs and critical documents archived for operational continuity across both entities.
Benefits of Using KanBo in Demerger Scenarios
Minimized Operational Risk
Control disruptions with structured, real-time task and communication management.
Secure Data Handling
Maintain confidentiality and compliance throughout the separation process.
Seamless Transition Execution
Keep workflows on track and monitored across locations and business units.
Scalable Future Operations
Prepare both new entities with robust, flexible systems and knowledge foundations.
Security and Installation Options
On-Premises & Government Cloud Deployment
Ensures compliance with national security regulations.
Role-Based Access Controls
Restrict sensitive investment data to authorized personnel.
Data Encryption & Audit Logging
Protects against cyber threats and ensures transparency.
KanBo – Work Coordination Platform
KanBo is a work coordination software designed to help self-organizing teams work smarter and faster. You can see KanBo in action by accessing our demonstration environment.