Si on s’y mettait?

The word productivity comes up a lot in business discussions, but it’s rarely well understood. In an auto repair shop, it’s often assumed that this means working harder or faster. In reality, true productivity is working in a great environment, with happy, motivated and engaged employees. 

Productivity on the shop floor: what if happiness at work was the key? 

Take for example of a shop where several technicians take turns working on a vehicle: bodywork, painting, reassembly, etc. A 10% increase in productivity doesn’t always come from new equipment. It often comes from a better team spirit, a healthy work atmosphere, and the pleasure of doing a good job. 

Productivity starts with people 

Two well-known Quebecers have written about this: Lucien Bouchard, former Premier (born in Saint-Cœur-de-Marie, my hometown), and Jacques Ménard, former president of BMO in Quebec (born in Jonquière), with his book Si on s’y mettait? Both remind us that collective success starts with individual well-being. 

Organizational happiness improves cycle time 

Jacques Ménard went further by talking about organizational happiness. When team members are happy, they naturally give more.. The result: better productivity, reduced lead times, and better profitability. 

Now, imagine what 10% more productivity would mean in your shop. Less stress. Better cycle time. And perhaps less need to recruit employees abroad. 

Happiness at work is not a luxury. It’s a real performance booster. 

So… How about we get started?