These groups are provided minimal funding for communication and occasional get-togethers. On a more formal basis, the company sponsors regular internal conferences for best practice exchange. Networks and best practices groups may form either around technologies or around functional specialties. Some networks address future trends or focus on emerging developments in science and technology. Roughly 5,000 copies of the original paper-based map were distributed.
Cost effectiveness is high since linkages can be built quickly and easily for enriched connectivity.
One key aspect of these efforts is their power to bring together a relatively dispersed and decentralized company. The implementation of best practices sharing initiatives has met with excellent results in multiple areas. While Chevron admits that half its competitors used to manage capital projects more effectively than it did, it now claims to be one of the top performers. Greg Hanggi, an internal consultant for Chevron Refining, points out that efforts to transfer best practices have helped his organization overcome political and geographic barriers that once stood in the way of widespread productivity gains. It's an initiative that has been embraced by the refining area for about five years, producing both qualitative and quantitative benefits.