New modell improves the conditions for research

In August 2001, MTT started introducing a process-based operating model. The model aims at improving the conditions for research and increasing research efficiency. An enlarged management group initially defined the core and support processes, and towards the end of the year more detailed definition of the core processes was begun. The core processes are the research and marketing processes and processes for information and technology transfer. Support processes include operational planning, resource management, IT management and accounting.

Number of service units reduced to two

MTT's internal services strategy was reformed during 2001. In accordance with the new strategy, the number of service units was reduced from four to two: Administrative Services and Research Services.

The areas of responsibility of the Research Services unit include research support services, the chemistry laboratory, information services and the Jokioinen experimental farm. The expertise of the Research Services unit is being improved specifically in project planning and the drafting of funding applications. Bringing research services under the umbrella of a single unit enables services to be developed on common principles and based around the needs of research.

The Administrative Services unit is responsible for personnel and finance, centralized procurement, and maintenance of the real estate at Jokioinen. The new service organization was introduced at the beginning of 2002.

Electronic signature introduced

The central administration launched electronic preparation and signing of documents. The system was launched on a pilot scale in one of the operating units towards the end of the year. The new system allows accelerated, streamlined and more efficient handling of business, at the same time making operations more transparent. It enables simultaneous decentralization of decision-making and abiding by common rules.

Closer monitoring of secondary occupations

The corporate policy on granting permission for secondary occupations was revised and the different kinds of secondary occupations to be covered by the permission policy were determined. Staff members will be required to provide more detailed accounts of their secondary occupations. Permission may be granted either to the extent applied for or in more restricted form, or it may be denied altogether. Permission can be granted for a maximum of three years at a time.

A risk monitoring assessment was commissioned from external auditors, covering risk assessments for planning and monitoring systems, corporate governance and core and support functions. The assessment will provide a basis for including risk charting as a part of normal operations.

For further information please contact Maritta Yläranta