Efficient project management for broadband expansion
Success story from e.discom Telekommunikation GmbH
We were looking for PM software that could map our IPMA standard. With BCS, we can map our projects from the initialization phase to project completion. Customer-specific requirements are also taken into account and implemented in the ongoing development of the BCS tool.
e.discom: Fiber optic expertise in northeastern Germany
e.discom Telekommunikation GmbH is a wholly owned subsidiary of E.DIS AG and was founded in 1996. We are an established provider in the fiber optic industry with extensive know-how and expertise in the field of network construction, operation, and telecommunications. Our main areas of business are the provision and management of data transmission paths, Internet services, VoIP, and security solutions.
From Kap Arkona to Jüterbog, e.discom's network area covers Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Brandenburg and has one of the most modern and powerful high-speed networks. The fiber optic network covers over 14,000 kilometers and is a secure foundation for the digital infrastructure of both federal states. In addition, e.discom builds and operates radio masts that support the 450 MHz network, making it a reliable partner when it comes to protecting and maintaining critical infrastructure. e.discom operates 725 technical sites, colocation areas for carriers, radio masts, radio sites, and multi-service networks in its network area.
In addition, we have been involved in the subsidized broadband expansion program since 2018 as part of the German government's “White Spots Program.” Over 200 employees in the region ensure that this fiber optic network not only continues to grow, but also guarantees maximum reliability and fast, effective customer service. As a provider for regional companies, public institutions, and city administrations, e.discom's high-performance transmission routes form an important basis for securing and developing a strong economy in the region.
Broadband development is a high priority for e.discom, because with the ongoing development of a gigabit society, high bandwidths are a prerequisite for numerous applications that determine or will determine everyday life and work for broad sections of society.
Tool for complex projects
Until 2020, we planned, managed, and evaluated our projects using Excel lists and presented them using PowerPoint slides. Since our projects in the telecommunications and broadband expansion sectors are highly complex and require precise coordination and management, it was challenging to track the current status of projects, and the different reporting formats made it difficult to consolidate and analyze project data.
Furthermore, there was no way to manage and compare multiple projects simultaneously, which led to inefficiencies, e.g., in communication and resource planning. BCS came out on top in the selection process because it is Office 365-compatible and able to meet our individual requirements from our specific project work.
Projektron's project management software is a central platform where all project information is always up to date and accessible. This gives us the ability to better monitor and control projects, which leads to greater efficiency and quality.
By using BCS, we can ensure that our projects are completed on time and within the project scope, which is crucial for the success and competitiveness of our company.
From pilot project to company-wide solution
The introduction of Projektron BCS began in November 2020. First, our funding projects were integrated into the system. In close cooperation with Projektron's user support team, we gradually rolled out the standard functions for the first projects. The focus was on the structure plan, team plan, material cost plan, and reporting functions. These functions were thoroughly tested by our project managers and the PMO.
Due to the complexity and size of our funding projects, additional requirements were identified and implemented with the support of Projektron BCS. This implementation process lasted until August 2021.
After the successful implementation of the funding projects, we began to incorporate additional projects into the BCS tool. The functions were expanded to include the effort plan, environment analysis, and portfolio management. In addition, we integrated interfaces for importing and exporting data, which greatly facilitates data transfer between different systems and ensures the consistency of information.
Another important step was the creation of our own dashboard report. The dashboard provides a customized overview of all relevant project metrics and data.
Effective implementation
After implementing Projektron BCS, we conducted comprehensive training to ensure that our employees could use the software effectively. This training covered both project management according to IPMA standards and role-specific training on how to use the project management software.
Project management according to IPMA
Projektron BCS provides all the necessary tools to carry out our projects in accordance with IPMA standards. The software supports us in every phase of project management, from initiation and definition to planning, implementation, and completion. With features such as project proposals, structure, team, material cost, and expense plans, milestone trend analysis, and comprehensive reporting functions, we have everything we need to manage our projects efficiently and successfully.
Seamless system integration
In addition to the standard functions of the PM software, we use the import and export functions in particular for our complex infrastructure projects. This enables us to capture large amounts of data from other systems, such as SharePoint and SAP, in a structured and error-free manner in the BCS tool without much manual effort. The interfaces specially developed for us are also taken into account with every release change and update.
Automated notifications
Another valuable feature is email notifications, which are automatically sent when a defined milestone is reached.
Given the strict regulations in the funding environment, it is crucial that certain milestones are reached on time. To ensure that we can respond to potential delays in a timely manner, we have implemented the email notification feature. These notifications are sent automatically before a milestone is reached, giving the project manager sufficient time to take corrective action and adjust the project schedule if necessary.
In addition, an email is generated as soon as a specific milestone is set to “Closed” status by the project manager in the structure plan. This email contains detailed instructions for the entire project team and informs them of the tasks that must be completed by a specified deadline. This ensures that the entire project team knows exactly who has to do what and when in order to efficiently implement the next steps.
Overview at the touch of a button
The “Project overview” and “Costs” views provide an excellent summary of the project status. They allow us to see at a glance where we stand with our project, which tasks need to be completed, and what the next steps are.
We use these views for regular meetings with the project team and stakeholders. These review meetings are crucial for giving all stakeholders the opportunity to provide feedback, develop further steps, and participate in the development process.
The highlight of our implementation is the dashboard created specifically for us. In short, it is the ultimate all-in-one tool that meets all our requirements and provides us with a comprehensive overview of all relevant project metrics.
Strong project management thanks to Projektron BCS
The introduction of Projektron BCS has significantly improved our project management. Projektron BCS enables us to obtain meaningful and up-to-date information about our projects at the touch of a button. The tool, as a central platform and customized dashboard, provides a comprehensive overview of all relevant project metrics.
With Projektron BCS, we have a platform that offers all the necessary functions to carry out our projects in accordance with IPMA standards. Overall, Projektron BCS significantly supports our project management activities, which is crucial for the successful execution of our complex and extensive projects.
It should be emphasized that Projektron BCS is flexible and adaptable, so it can be tailored to the specific needs and requirements of our projects. This is particularly important for the complex and extensive projects in our company.
