How do our customers use Vanillaplan? We asked them – and in our new interview series, we provide insight into its everyday use. Michael Lindauer from Lindauer AG kicks things off.
Mr Lindauer, please tell us a little about your company and your role.
We are a carpentry and kitchen construction company based in Steinen in the canton of Schwyz with over 40 employees. Our focus is on kitchen construction and interior design – this includes cupboards, doors and floors, but also furniture such as shelves, tables, chairs, beds and bathroom furniture.
I am the team leader of the project managers and take care of our IT. I am also responsible for the personnel planning of our project managers.
How did you organise planning before using Vanillaplan – and what prompted you to introduce it?
We used Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Outlook. However, this meant that our personnel planning and production planning were not carried out in the same tool and everything was somewhat scattered. As our business grew, we had more and more projects to manage – and it became increasingly confusing.
How did you find out about Vanillaplan?
It was during a training course. A construction company (door manufacturer) recommended Vanillaplan to us – we took a closer look at it and were convinced.
How did the implementation and introduction of Vanillaplan go?
We tested Vanillaplan over several months. During the paid trial period, we worked with our own master data, which was very helpful. Of course, it always takes some time for everyone to get used to a new system. Some found it intuitive right away, while others had to familiarise themselves with it first. But now it's running smoothly and everyone is finding their way around.
In which areas do you use Vanillaplan?
We use Vanillaplan for all our personnel and production planning. We currently have around 200 projects in the system – so you quickly realise how important a centralised solution is.
How do you use the dashboard in your company?
We display the resource planning as a large overview for all employees – which is very helpful. This way, everyone can immediately see who is assigned where and what is coming up. The notes that can be added to each employee assignment are particularly practical. This allows even minor notes or information to be communicated directly – a simple and time-saving way of communicating.
What do you personally consider to be the greatest added value of Vanillaplan?
For me, it's the overview. You can filter by various categories or show and hide individual areas – exactly as you need it. This saves time and makes planning much clearer. Overall, Vanillaplan simply gives us a better overview of our staff and projects.
And finally: how is the service and support?
Very good. We have always dealt with Ingrid or Remi, and our concerns have been quickly taken on board and addressed.
Thank you very much for the insights into your planning practice, Mr Lindauer.