The way we work

Digital tools are a mainstay in office environments around the world. Robotics are streamlining operations in factories, while evolving creative processes are driving innovation across industries. Amid this evolution, a new star is rising: AI. As the landscape of global business transforms, GF is at the forefront of integrating advanced technologies and innovative work styles to stay competitive and create a stimulating environment where its employees can grow and thrive.

Through the experiences of four employees across our divisions, we explore what it means to work efficiently, creatively, digitally and with connection. Their stories show how new approaches are not only improving individual performance and well-being, but are also driving our company toward a promising future.

Ashley has been a member of the Sales Development team at GF Piping Systems for three years. Recently, the company implemented the Customer Service Workspace app for Customer Relationship Management (CRM), which included the installation of a database integrated with the phone system, enabling all sales staff to work more efficiently across the organization. “This makes us much more efficient; processes are better defined and we can respond to customers more quickly,” says Ashley. Her team was the first at GF to integrate the CRM tool into their workflow. “Our learning curve was steep as a result. This allowed us to provide feedback and ensure that the functionality was tailored to our needs.” One process in particular, Ashley says, was significantly shortened as a result. “We wanted to be able to create a case right away. Previously, we would have to create a call, open it in a separate tab and then convert it to a case. Now we can create the case directly from the call log tab, which is very helpful. We use it every day.”

Her team receives a lot of customer calls – whether they’re about order status, price or delivery of products. With the new application for Customer Relationship Management, these inquiries are directly integrated into a workflow process. Ashley uses it to track her open cases and handle them efficiently.

“Dashboards help us see what we need to do. Whenever a customer calls, we have instant visibility, meaning we can answer questions directly and resolve issues faster. We are always able to provide information. Orders get to their destination faster, and consequently our customers give us very positive feedback.”

Ashley appreciates the fact that digitalization and innovation is making work processes at GF even smarter. However, when she needs to discuss something with colleagues, she still prefers to go to their offices rather than send an e-mail or arrange a virtual meeting. “Personal contact is important to me and it‘s also a better way to understand how everyone works together here at the site. Our culture is one of mutual support. I really like that.”