Mapping and Improving Administration Processes in an R&D Environment A Case Study of the Internal Vehicles at Volvo Cars

Abstract

Administrative processes exist in all kinds of companies. The administration processes are, however, seldom a prioritised area for improvement. The automotive industry is experience increased competition as an effect of the digitalisation and improved development processes. The car manufacturers need to develop new car models more rapidly. The development of cars is expensive therefore it becomes of the uttermost importance to improve all processes connected with the research and development. This thesis aims to map and improve an administration process at Volvo Car Corporation’s research and development department. A single case study can provide a deeper understanding of both the specific case and method used. The study included a literature study, several interviews of the participants of the process, observation of included activities, studying of internal documents, analysis of the collected data as well as mapping the process according to business process management. The process was described by several process maps as well as the stakeholder of the process were identified. The analysis highlighted some areas of improvement. One area was the use of physical forms, which partly was an effect of the second identified improvement area, the need for physical signatures. Another area of improvement is the use of different IT system. The thesis concludes that by reducing the use of physical documents, the approval process and final archiving activities can be reduced and less resource consuming. Furthermore, the administration process can become more efficient with an electronic approval system as well as with a further developed system integration. Finally, it can be concluded that process mapping is a useful method for companies to create understanding and to improve their internal processes.