Customer Story: Tim Hortons: Employees' Daily Request - Inclusion in Broadcasts Sparks High Demand

Before installing OurPeople the company used text, emails and phone calls to communicate internally. The management team found this was manageable when they only had five locations all within five miles of each other. However, as they have expanded, their communication challenges have grown especially as their restaurant locations are now widespread, often with a distance of 50-60 miles between them.

Widespread Locations Posing a Challenge

Just over a year ago they came to the decision they needed a platform where all employees can communicate with each other.

Luckily, following a successful sales outreach approach, they agreed to bring OurPeople on board.

They found the rollout was pretty easy, but it definitely took time for everyone to get used to the functions. Some employees found it a bit overwhelming at first, so the team just broke it down and introduced more of the simple functionality to start with. As employees became more active on the platform, they introduced a greater range of tools.  

Popularity Companywide

Companywide, the Broadcasts are the most used function. They view it as their own company social media. Employees are always keen to have their pictures taken to be used on Broadcasts. In fact, the managers are constantly asked by staff members to get their phones out and snap away. They get asked daily.

Every level of the company sees the Broadcasts and engagement levels on a daily basis are high.

The Chat function is used more by specific groups such as individual locations, districts or the management office group chat.

A Much Used Daily Ritual

Whatever an employee’s function is within the company, using OurPeople is seen as a daily ritual.

Having such a widely used platform has made communication easier. Having messaging that is well received, understood and comprehended is invaluable to them. Broadcasts have been able to simplify this process.

If they are trying to send out a new launch or new item, it is reassuring to know the entire company will see it. They no longer have to rely on the ripple effect of relaying information down through departments.

OurPeople has also really helped rolling out new procedures. Again, knowing that employees have understood step by step has made it so much more simple.

When asked to describe OurPeople, Cody Blaisdell, the Director of Operations replied:

‘It can be your company’s social media. We see it as our platform. It kind of makes people famous in the company. People see a broadcast of someone they’ve never met before and now they know them. It really helps employees stay informed and be more engaged. I would highly recommend OurPeople.’