Engineering management as a service for Valmet

The project aimed to create a new, modern, and compliant roll testing equipment for Valmet. The project was part of a larger program that had multiple suppliers, schedules, numerous stakeholders and interfaces. Managing and scheduling such a complex project came with its own set of challenges.

Etteplan took on the responsibility of managing and executing the engineering and commissioning for Valmet. Scope of the project included all points from top-level definition to detailed engineering and technical support for the assembly phase. Etteplan was responsible for creating engineering framework content, system engineering, implementation, and technical documentation. In this context, interdisciplinary system engineering included mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and automation engineering, as well as strength calculations.

Etteplan defined roles and built an organizational structure tailored to the service requirements. Valmet's Project Manager served as the top authority in the management structure, while Etteplan's Engineering Manager operated beneath them, handling operational daily management. Seamless and effective exchange of information and data occurred between Valmet and Etteplan as well as third parties. Etteplan's Engineering Manager took charge of leading their execution team, which consisted of dedicated lead engineers for each discipline.

From the beginning of the project, Etteplan facilitated requirements specification, created design specifications and architectures from all disciplines which allowed for an engineering framework to be developed. Design specification and system architecture documents ensured quality of the project execution and daily engineering management, providing a communication framework between all disciplines and stakeholders within the project.

Daily management was facilitated through regular meetings where each designer shared progress updates, ensuring a cohesive team effort. Cross-disciplinary communication played a pivotal role in guaranteeing seamless integration across different engineering areas.

This resulted in efficiently overseeing daily engineering tasks, ensuring optimal resource allocation, and closely monitoring engineering progress. By effectively organizing engineering activities and working hand-in-hand with Valmet, Etteplan provided valuable insights into critical paths within the design process.

As the engineering process progressed, new requirements emerged. Etteplan addressed these changes by accurately defining their consequences, updating the necessary documents, and communicating any schedule and resource adjustments to Valmet. The document-based management approach ensured that everyone involved had an up-to-date understanding of the project's progress, activities, and future needs.

By leveraging digital tools, Etteplan created a comprehensive overview of the project’s engineering. This enabled them to collaboratively manage and prioritize tasks based on the specific needs of different stakeholders. From individual assignments to complete work packages, Etteplan's digitalization efforts ensured transparency and facilitated better decision-making for both parties involved.

Etteplan's approach extended beyond service management by fostering cross-functional collaboration within Valmet's organization. Etteplan incorporated concurrent engineering management principles along with quality control measures for product structures. The goal was to develop a system which consists of reusable sub-systems that would enable efficient reusability for the future.

The partnership between Etteplan and Valmet exemplifies the power of collaborative engineering management services. By leveraging digitalization, cross-functional collaboration, and a focus on product structure quality, Etteplan empowered Valmet to achieve greater efficiency and agility in their roll testing processes.

One of the key outcomes of this collaboration was enabling reusability of engineering outputs of this project as well as improved ways of working including visibility and transparency. By implementing rigorous quality management practices, Valmet and Etteplan established a seamless pathway for roll testing development plan. This approach not only improved roll testing equipment reliability but also enhanced Valmet's ability to adapt quickly in response to various market demands.

Although the project involved various complexities such as scheduling, supplier management, and technical support, the service was successfully delivered on time and is now effectively supporting Valmet's business operations. This reference story serves as a testament to Etteplan's commitment to driving meaningful progress and delivering lasting change for its customers across various sectors.

Etteplan's defined methodology for engineering management and execution emphasizes harmonious workflow, efficient roles, operational management methods, and digital tools. This combination supports effective, proactive, and transparent service as well as efficient change management.

“Etteplan's comprehensive engineering management services exemplify our commitment to delivering high-quality, multidisciplinary solutions," says Jyri Lyytikäinen, Senior Manager at Etteplan Managed Services.