How EcoVadis is Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience

In the realm of procurement, accurate and timely data is pivotal. From tracking emissions to mapping supplier networks, advancements in procurement depend heavily on measurable insights. This data-centric approach similarly applies to social sustainability efforts within supply chains. Crucial metrics, such as labour conditions, are pivotal in driving sustainable advancements—some indicators need to reduce, while others require enhancement.

However, the utility of data is contingent on its accuracy and representation of real-world conditions. Without this, even the most meticulously crafted procurement strategy risks becoming speculative and ineffective.

Empowering worker's voices

EcoVadis, renowned for its expertise in sustainability intelligence, has been instrumental in assisting companies globally to monitor supplier sustainability. Now, the company extends its focus to social sustainability with the Worker Voice platform, created in alliance with Ulula, experts in worker feedback mechanisms.

The Worker Voice platform serves as a conduit for anonymous feedback from employees within global supply chains. Utilising mobile surveys, instant messaging and in-person questionnaires, it collects timely insights across various supplier networks.

The objective is to enable companies to gain a deeper understanding beyond what traditional audits offer. Unlike audits, which are often periodic, expensive and potentially overlook workers' actual experiences, Worker Voice bridges this gap effectively. It facilitates participation even in challenging or high-risk environments.

The platform emphasises accessibility and confidentiality to promote truthful feedback from workers. This feature safeguards contributors and supports companies in identifying and mitigating risks such as overwork, harassment or hazardous conditions early and accurately.

"Companies are under pressure to comply with new regulations and meet rising stakeholder expectations, but policy without visibility falls short of where it matters most – on the ground with workers," says Pierre-François Thaler, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of EcoVadis.

Insights for real-time risk management

Worker Voice's real-time analysis capabilities enable immediate processing of worker feedback, highlighting issues as they surface.

With survey durations under ten minutes and participation windows extending up to ten days, Worker Voice maximises participation rates. This continuous feedback loop affords organisations a clearer depiction of working conditions, facilitating prompt interventions—whether revising overtime policies or addressing harassment incidents.

Incorporating Worker Voice grants EcoVadis clients a 'worker verified' badge. Strong positive feedback from workers positively impacts their EcoVadis score.

This advancement not only ensures compliance but also substantiates ethical sourcing assertions with real-time updates, translating social commitments into tangible upgrades on the production floor.

"By combining these strengths, we're delivering a solution that goes beyond traditional audits and assessments and making it possible to surface risks that would otherwise remain hidden so we can support companies to act on them more effectively," says Antoine Heuty, Founder and CEO of Ulula.

Ensuring compliance and ongoing improvement

Worker Voice has been designed with regulatory conformity as a core aspect. As global standards evolve and human rights due diligence becomes imperative in numerous regions, the platform proves beneficial for entities striving to align with these requirements.

This includes adherence to legislation addressing modern slavery and other labour discrepancies, positioning Worker Voice as an essential resource in navigating compliance amidst fluctuating economic conditions.

By rapidly acquiring and interpreting frontline data, Worker Voice represents a strategic transition for supply chains—from a periodic compliance activity to an ongoing, worker-empowered enhancement process.

The platform is a testament to Pierre-François Thaler's efforts since EcoVadis's inception in 2007. Thaler has been pivotal in transforming EcoVadis into a reputable data provider for sustainable supply chains.

Drawing from his executive experience at Ariba and B2Build, coupled with his role as Director of e-Procurement at Alstom Power, Thaler continues to leverage data, driving environmental and social change through initiatives like Worker Voice, aimed at establishing transparent and accountable labour standards.

Worker Voice underscores a significant evolution in procurement and supply chain management, facilitating enhanced labour standards and compliance across global networks.

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