In recognition of its commitment to innovation and efficiency, Aboitiz Group’s Super Ditch Day has clinched the prestigious Quill Award of Merit for Communications Management in Internal Communication. This internal transformation campaign has not only disrupted the conventional ways of working within the organization but has also garnered recognition for its excellence in communication management.
Super Ditch Day (SDD) was more than an initiative; it was a rallying cry for Aboitiz team leaders and members to break free from bureaucratic shackles and embrace a culture of innovation. Spearheaded by AEV’s Transformation team, the program served as a platform where leaders and members alike submitted ideas aimed at overhauling outdated processes and rules.
SDD was a transformative experience for our teams. It wasn’t just about discarding obsolete practices; it was about fostering a mindset of critical thinking. The Quill Award affirms our commitment to open communication and collaboration within our organization.
—Dea Franko Csuba, Vice President of Transformation, AEV
A remarkable 1,971 ideas flooded in from the 13,000-strong team members across the Aboitiz Group. Out of this vast pool, 392 ideas were selected for elimination, resulting in streamlining of about 19% of the processes across the organization in 2022 alone. This impressive outcome underscores the effectiveness of SDD in identifying and discarding redundant practices, making way for a more efficient and agile work environment.
Moreover, Super Ditch Day fostered a culture where every team member had a voice. The inclusivity of the initiative welcomed ideas ranging from the simple to the complex, and even the unconventional. Csuba emphasized the importance of a well-defined game plan in activating the process of collecting and reviewing entries. “The key was to create a space where everyone felt empowered to contribute, regardless of the nature of their ideas. SDD was a testament to the power of collective innovation,” she noted.
The success of the program not only lies in the streamlined processes and increased efficiency but also in the engagement and empowerment of the workforce. Participants were not only recognized for contributing ideas but also for the successful ditching of those ideas on the same day, creating a sense of ownership and achievement among the A+ people.
What’s more, the Super Ditch Day initiative serves as a catalyst for cultivating a “ditch culture” within the organization, promoting simplicity and speed while embracing core behaviors. As we strive to solidify these efforts, various SBUs are also gearing up to reimagine their own programs, further enhancing the organization’s overall dynamics.
Learn more about the ditch culture in the video below:
Looking ahead, innovative initiatives like Super Ditch Day position the Aboitiz Group as a trailblazer in the Philippine business landscape. With a commitment to embracing technological advancements and fostering a culture of innovation and openness, Aboitiz is well on its way to becoming the country’s first techglomerate, leading the way in transforming traditional business models and processes to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
