Why this case matters
ABS shows that one configurable research infrastructure can support several related improvement programmes while the network retains ownership of the substantive models.
The challenge
ABS already had a business-comparison process when C2C became involved in 2019. Historical information needed to remain usable, while the process itself had to become easier to operate and extend.
After ABS appointed a consultant for business comparison in 2021, the benchmark was developed further. Additional research applications followed, including CO2 research and quality audits. The challenge was to support these different programmes without turning every new application into a separate manual Excel process.
The approach
C2C took over the existing comparison structure and imported usable historical data. The Survey Tool became the technical infrastructure for recurring collection, comparison and reporting.
For the quality audit, an auditor can use a separate branch login to record findings for five dossiers. The branch then receives its individual audit report automatically, including the configured judgement. This replaced a process in which information and reporting required considerably more manual Excel work.
ABS develops the substantive content through its own business-improvement expertise. C2C does not present itself as the developer of the benchmark, CO2 methodology or audit methodology.
Who does what?
ABS Autoherstel — Defines the substantive content, improvement methodology and use of the results. Its consultant for business comparison checks and discusses results with locations.
Compare to Compete — Provides the Survey Tool, historical-data support, automation and technical/research-platform support when required.
What the programme delivers
Locations receive their own results and can compare development over time and, where configured, with the network. ABS can use the aggregate information to support network-wide improvement.
The broader value of the case is architectural: one research infrastructure can support several related improvement processes instead of creating a separate tool for each one.