Flexible Accommodation for the Changing Needs of Project Work

Umacon carries out industrial demolition and heavy lifting projects across Finland, which means the company often has multiple worksites operating simultaneously in different parts of the country. Project durations range from a few weeks to as long as a year, and the number of employees requiring accommodation can quickly grow to several dozen. In this type of environment, planning ahead is essential, but not everything can be predicted. That is why having a reliable accommodation partner with nationwide coverage is so important. Kotimaailma provides flexible accommodation solutions throughout Finland and can adapt quickly to changing circumstances, helping ensure the smooth execution of projects while making everyday life easier for employees working on site.

Project Coordinator Sanna Mikkola is responsible for all accommodation arrangements at Umacon. According to her, having a nationwide and flexible accommodation partner has become virtually indispensable in project-based work.

”Situations can change very quickly. Sometimes things are quiet, and at other times it feels like we’re playing a game of apartment Tetris almost every day,” says Sanna.

At Kotimaailma, the partnership is managed by Account Manager Santeri Rinta-Rahko, who has a deep understanding of Umacon’s needs, the nature of its projects, and the types of accommodation that work best for project teams in practice.

Direct Communication and Fast Solutions

One of the greatest strengths of the partnership is the effective communication between both parties. Sanna and Santeri approach matters directly, respond quickly, and focus on finding practical solutions.

”A good working relationship makes a huge difference. We both know what works and what doesn’t. We communicate openly and get straight to the point,” Santeri says with a laugh.

Their strong personal rapport is reflected in day-to-day operations. When working closely together and managing constant changes across multiple projects, clear communication makes everyone’s job easier. Both parties quickly understand what is needed and what kind of solution is most appropriate for the situation.

The collaboration also benefits from a healthy sense of humor.

”Even in the middle of a hectic schedule, there’s usually room for a bit of humor. When the chemistry is right and communication is straightforward, it’s much easier to solve challenges together.”

Project schedules can change at short notice. Sometimes a new accommodation requirement arises only a few days before work is due to begin, making speed and flexibility essential.

”I might call on a Thursday and say we need accommodation by Monday. Santeri knows our requirements, and communication is seamless. Decisions are made quickly on both sides, which makes a big difference,” Sanna explains.

Having a dedicated point of contact has also become an important part of the partnership for Kotimaailma. When the same person understands the client’s way of working, accommodation needs, and quality expectations, arrangements can be handled far more efficiently.

Flexibility in Challenging Situations

In long-term cooperation, situations also arise where everything does not go perfectly. According to Sanna, the most important thing has been that they have never been left alone with problems.

One memorable case involved a project in Lappeenranta, where some of the guests raised concerns about indoor air quality in the apartments. The issue was investigated and repairs were carried out, but in the end the solution was to provide entirely new accommodations.

”The matter was handled quickly, and replacement apartments were arranged for us. Complaints have always been addressed promptly and in a friendly manner,” Sanna says.

Fast response has also been required in unexpected practical situations. In one case, changes had been made to the locking arrangements at the accommodation site, and the information had not been communicated in advance. However, the situation was resolved quickly in close cooperation, and the guests were able to access their apartments smoothly without significant delays.

According to Sanna, active communication is also important towards the employees staying in the accommodation. When information is clearly and timely communicated, everyday arrangements run smoothly and any changes can be addressed quickly.

”Our employees are our most important resource. It is essential that they always know what is going on and that issues are resolved quickly.”

Practical Everyday Functionality in Project Work

At Umacon, particular appreciation is given to the fact that accommodation solutions are almost always available, even on short notice. For employees, the most important factors are a functional everyday living environment, a good location, and having everything needed ready upon arrival.

Not all projects require the same type of accommodation. Some employees stay for extended periods, in which case comfort becomes more important. In other cases, practicality and proximity to the worksite are the key priorities.

”Santeri knows very well what suits us and what doesn’t. That makes things much easier,” Sanna notes.

Accessibility also contributes to the smoothness of cooperation. When needed, support from Kotimaailma is available even outside office hours.

”Emergency situations are rare, but when they do occur, it’s valuable to have someone familiar answering the phone.”

Long-Term Partnership

The cooperation between Umacon and Kotimaailma has lasted for years, even though personnel changes have taken place on the client side over time. However, the effective working model has remained the same.

According to Sanna Mikkola, the best words to describe the partnership are reliable and flexible.