SEA-Invest

From fragmented knowledge to a single clear picture

Sea-Invest asked Humaniti to thoroughly examine its fruit division. Due to high turnover, new employees, and fragmented knowledge, no one knew exactly how the daily operations actually ran. Therefore, we chose an approach where we figuratively "traveled along on the pallet" through the process: from arrival at the quay to final invoicing. Every step was analyzed and critically questioned each time: why is this done this way?

This approach resulted in an exceptionally detailed current state analysis, in which both the operational and financial sides were fully mapped out. The resulting playbook was the first time in years that all stakeholders knew exactly how the division truly operated.

A partial foundation for improvement and focus

After the analysis, Humaniti used a MoSCoW exercise to investigate which processes were essential, which improvements delivered the most business value, and where the greatest risks lay. SEA-Invest originally intended to start a full future-state transformation based on this, but decided to temporarily postpone that step. As a result, the focus shifted to concrete improvements that were immediately tangible while simultaneously preparing for that future.

Quick wins that save time every day

Twelve quick wins were developed and implemented. One of the most impactful concerned the invoicing service, which—thanks to structured data, new work order flows, and automated reporting—could be reduced from eight to three employees without loss of quality. Another important improvement was the introduction of a complete work order flow at the terminal, where previously no structured registration or execution existed. Port workers could now only start when there was a work order, and invoicing could rely on reliable data for the first time instead of phone calls and emails.

Additionally, Humaniti digitalized the processing of large wind turbine components: whereas this previously happened in Excel, an existing General Cargo module was now cleverly reused by treating the parts as large containers. This solution went live quickly and drastically reduced the margin of error. Shift management was also addressed: a system that previously worked entirely on paper was prepared for digital planning and follow-up, based on structured data.

Clear business requirements and smooth implementations

In parallel with these optimizations, Humaniti also defined clear business requirements for each project. By consistently asking further questions about what the business actually needed and why, requirements could be formulated much more sharply. This ensured that implementations, large and small, could proceed much faster and more consistently. This way of working created peace of mind, trust, and a stronger collaboration between teams.

From analysis to implementation, in Belgium and far beyond

Because Humaniti had deep insight into the company's operations through the analyses, our consultants were subsequently involved in the implementation of projects within the fruit division, but equally in other divisions such as dry bulk. Depending on the needs, they took on roles such as Project Manager, Business Analyst, or Change Manager. However, the collaboration did not stop at national borders: Humaniti also supported Sea-Invest internationally, including in Africa, where we handled the Project Management of new network architecture, workplace migrations, and security and camera installations. This broad versatility made Humaniti a fixture across multiple business domains.

A living blueprint and a stronger organization

The comprehensive process book compiled by Humaniti is still actively used today. Consultants and employees consult it whenever new projects start or when questions arise regarding processes. Furthermore, Humaniti remained available for advice, guidance, and knowledge transfer, always following the same vision: not just providing answers, but teaching people how to find answers themselves.

This human-centric approach not only increased the adoption of solutions but also ensured that Sea-Invest became structurally less dependent on external expertise.

While the full future-state transformation is currently on hold, the analyses, quick wins, and requirements mean Sea-Invest now possesses a solid foundation to take that step when the time comes. The company once again has the oversight, control, and data it deserves. Humaniti helped them evolve from fragmented knowledge to a clear structure and to be ready for the digital future, at their own pace.