On a cold, wet, miserable February morning I set about one of the day’s least exciting events – a company visit to Arena Instrumentation Ltd. From past experiences with the company, my expectations were somewhat low. When I first visited the company some years ago my first impression was it looked a little run down; old vans, messy workshop, and a very untidy office. Looking closer there was a sound work base of customers but co-ordination of people and work seemed somewhat haphazard.

At the time, I spoke to the Directors who, with an air of enthusiasm, had a vision of bringing their company into the 21st Century. They needed an injection of new ideas, motivation and positive changes into the business and workforce. With a flare for grasping an opportunity they enlisted the expertise of two new Directors whose experience, knowledge and drive would support their vision and realise their dreams. Two directors became four.

As I now drive up to Arena’s new purpose built premises surrounded by grass and sapling trees, I get the clear impression that things have changed. Gone are the old ‘workshop’ facilities and worn out company vans. A row of blue &white emblazoned vehicles proudly display their logos in the car park of a modern bright building.

I check in at reception and observe the smartly dressed personnel; a friendly smile greets me with a warm welcome. I am led to the busy open-plan offices, where I observe a vibrant, enthusiastic workforce. After discussions with a number of employees I find they have an open minded approach, flexible, are clearly driven, have mutual goals, sharing of problems and are supportive of each other.

I sense a team working close together dealing efficiently and effectively, along with a pleasant atmosphere, it is no wonder Arena were successful in obtaining ‘Investors in People’.

The quarterly newsletter highlighted social events and celebrations indicating they were both entertaining and well organised. Employees, family and friends attended typical outings to Alton Towers, Chester Races and London; friendships were forged, memories were made along with some embarrassing photographs.

Picking up the company brochure I get the impression of a “successful, prosperous, and well established business”. It is with interest I note the large diversity of industry sectors that Arena are involved with. Their diversity not only applies to industry sectors but the types of work within each sector ranging from Basic Instrument Support through to Complex Engineering Solutions – unique in today’s market place.

Is this why Arena command trust and respect from its many clients?

I was curious to see if this was all a charade or had Arena really changed for the better? I decided to have a closer look. I was presented with copies of recent external company audits, client testimonials and certificates of accreditation, which convinced me the improvements I was witnessing were genuine.

Having spoken to one of Arena’s Personnel they explained that over the past few years the Company had evolved from a ‘family-run partnership’ into a well established company.

This was achieved by an ambitious change program incorporating the services of an external consultant and the formation of a change management steering group, involving a cross section of the workforce.

A commitment was made to train the workforce to the highest standards required allowing each member of staff to convey a professional image to its clients and giving the workforce the ability to be flexible in their approach to problem solving. Attitudes are positive and personnel have an air of accountability about them, proud to work for Arena. This translated into a Company that provides a diverse and flexible resource, ideal for today’s ever demanding customer requirements.

The Staff Forum, 1st Line Management meetings and workforce toolbox talks provide Arena with a good communications network, which has meant that staff gets a clear and consistent understanding of where the business is going, and provide assurance that the Company is on a sound footing.

Following a series of brainstorming business strategy meetings, the workforce were introduced to ownership of clients and problems.

Major improvements have been introduced through the introduction of systems and procedures.

With the improved working practices now in place, it has led to Arena becoming more efficient, consistent and adopting a reliable way of working.

The New IT Network which was introduced some years ago has expanded to allow all Arena personnel access to all relevant documentation.

A major contributing factor of Arena’s success has been recognising the importance of teamwork; this has been achieved through as series of team building events.

The success of the change program has been achieved in no small part by the understanding from the Directors.

Due to their many years experience of industry, from the shop floor through various Line Management positions, they fully appreciate the value of the commitment and contribution the staff have made to the business.

Through personnel development Arena Staff are committed and confident to tackle technical and relationship issues. This along with “customer focus” has built relationships whereby Arena has become a trusted and reliable service provider.

Someone once quoted to me that “A Company is only as good as the people they employ”. This is a sentiment that Arena has grasped wholeheartedly and through various management and training techniques have instilled this principle into their valuable workforce, allowing for healthy career progression for those staff who demonstrate a desire to improve.

It is very clear to see why Arena is successful. They have developed a culture where the staff pride themselves on being the best, and are rewarded accordingly. They operate a “no blame” culture that encourages constructive criticism and feedback.

As I drive away from my pleasant visit, I recognise that Arena has changed. They now clearly belong in the 21st Century. Long may it continue.