Case Study: 3M boosts employee engagement by 7% and achieves 99% program participation with Achievers

How 3M brought a single online solution to a diverse, offline workforce

3M, a global innovation company with over 88,000 employees in more than 65 countries, faced the challenge of reinforcing its LEAN culture across a highly diverse workforce—nearly a third in manufacturing, a geographically dispersed sales force, a mix of union and non-union staff, and employees at every career stage. HR needed a rewards and recognition solution that worked for both desk-based and frontline workers and could unify many disparate local programs.

In January 2009 3M and Achievers launched the We Are 3M program, consolidating sales incentives, safety and service awards into a single, points-based platform with peer-to-peer recognition, kiosks and offline communications for non-desk employees, and greater manager autonomy. The program drove measurable results: employee engagement rose 7% (2010–2012), program participation reached 99% of the company, manufacturing became the highest usership group, and administrative costs fell—helping embed recognition into 3M’s culture and employer brand.

3M

Amy Grant

Human Resources Professional