Introduction
This fall, Stellium launched an exciting initiative, the Fit Challenge, bringing together our teams from Switzerland and Portugal in a fun and dynamic effort.
The objective was clear: to encourage everyone to adopt a more active lifestyle while strengthening interpersonal bonds. This challenge not only allowed participants to get physically active but also created an atmosphere of camaraderie and support among colleagues, transcending geographical boundaries.
Teams were made, and the points criteria was simple: each physical activity performed by a user makes a point for the corresponding team.
To bring this project to life, Inês Moreira, a Cloud Applications Developer at Stellium, took the lead as the main organizer. Her enthusiasm and commitment were essential in motivating participants and ensuring the success of the event.
An innovative approach using the Power Platform
At the heart of this challenge, technology played a fundamental role.
We chose to use Microsoft’s Power Platform to implement a simple yet effective technical solution. Here’s how we proceeded:
Creation of a customized application
Using Power Apps, we developed a Canvas App application in a Dataverse for Teams environment. This application allowed participants to easily track the points submitted by everyone in the challenge.
Automation of the points system
To make activity tracking more dynamic, we set up an automated points system using Power Automate. Each time a team member created a post with an attachment (print screen of the activity performed) in a specific Teams Channel, the automated workflow instantly awarded points to the corresponding team.
This eliminated the need for manual tracking, making the process transparent and fair. Participants could track their rankings in real-time through a dedicated section in the app, as well as the attachments submitted for each activity, both in the application and in the “Files” section of the Teams Channel.
Communication channels
To foster interaction among team members, we created communication channels in Microsoft Teams. Each team had its own discussion space to share tips and encourage one another. Additionally, a general channel allowed all participants to come together, exchange experiences, and celebrate collective successes.
Activity sharing
Participants were encouraged to share screenshots of their performances, whether from runs, gym sessions, or other physical activities. The app facilitated easy submissions in a dedicated channel, “Add Points”.
Each submission accompanied by proof automatically generated a point for the team, reinforcing the competitive spirit.
Tracking and reporting
Utilizing Dataverse allowed us to store and manage all data related to the challenge. This platform enabled us to easily monitor participants’ progress, generate reports, and analyze performance by team. It also facilitated data management and the creation of interactive dashboards.
Dynamic communication and cohesion
Beyond technology, the initiative also strengthened the bonds among employees. The combination of a friendly environment and a transparent performance-tracking system fostered a culture of mutual support. Participants motivated one another, sharing tips and experiences in a positive and engaging setting.
A powerful testimonial
“Organizing the Fit Challenge has been an incredibly enriching experience. Not only did we succeed in motivating our teams to be active and adopt healthier lifestyles, but we also forged valuable connections among our colleagues. Using the Power Platform to manage the event was a real asset, making the process smooth and engaging. I am thrilled with everyone’s commitment, and I hope we can continue organizing similar events in the future!“
– Inês, the organizer of the Fit Challenge
Conclusion
In summary, the Fit Challenge was much more than just a sports event; it embodied our commitment to employee well-being and our ability to innovate through technology.
By integrating the Power Platform, we created an interactive and motivating experience that perfectly illustrates how teamwork and innovation can come together to enhance the quality of life within the company.
We look forward to seeing what the future holds and continuing to promote initiatives that encourage the health and well-being of our teams.
Ready to bring innovation and team spirit to your organization?
Contact us today to discover how we can help you create impactful challenges like the Stellium Fit Challenge. Leverage the Power Platform to drive employee engagement, enhance team cohesion, and foster a culture of well-being and innovation.
Let’s work together to craft tailored solutions to inspire your team and elevate your workplace culture!