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Breaking down functional and generational silos to revitalize the organization

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Problem statement

The client wanted to inject new dynamics into their teams by breaking down silos and allowing "historical" groups of collaborators to open up to new interactions with more recent recruits.

Context

The client, the IT department of a French public administrative establishment, comprises around 80 collaborators spread across several floors of the same building. The structure is divided into teams with limited transversal interactions, involving collaborators of all ages, blending young recruits and long-standing employees. This organization isolates teams and hinders overall cohesion.

Key Figures

  • 78 collaborators engaged as players in the experience
  • 3 weeks of immersive experience
  • + 90 % participation rate
  • + 1,000 solo and team actions completed and published on the platform

Provided Solution

The FeelGoodFellows team proposed the client the DNA Experience, a three-week program of primarily collective challenges designed to encourage cohesion and break down silos. Mixed and random teams were formed to foster new connections. During the experience, each group chose a captain and created a team identity with their own values and symbols, aiming to forge a close-knit group capable of tackling all challenges. The program also included a whole range of fun and creative activities that allowed everyone to participate according to their talents, encouraging exchanges beyond usual professional roles.

Results

At the end of the three weeks, more than 90 % of collaborators actively participated, with over 1,000 shared actions. The experience created common memories and strengthened human bonds, generating new friendships and a lasting team dynamic. Feedback was unanimous: the atmosphere within the department is more positive, and teams now know each other much better, which has facilitated exchanges and collaboration. Teams now seem full of ideas and energy to sustain this dynamic, bringing a fresh breeze and increased motivation, with collaborators enjoying interaction daily, both professionally and personally.

Key Learnings

  • Managerial Engagement: The support of managers and motivating communication are essential to launch the experience and give it a strong impact.
  • Progressive Participation: Even initially reluctant collaborators eventually became actively involved, driven by the collective dynamic.
  • Creative Solutions: Participants adapted the experience to their preferences while respecting game constraints, such as wearing masks for those wishing to remain anonymous in photos.
  • Collective Kindness: Feedback and appreciation among collaborators were predominantly positive, encouraging an atmosphere of support and cooperation, a sign of a functioning group.

Building on this success, the client is now considering new experiences focused on engaging themes such as CSR and Inclusion & Diversity, in order to continue evolving the team spirit.