Process View to Innovate the Management of the Social Housing System: A Multiple Case Study

The article titled "Process View to Innovate the Management of the Social Housing System: A Multiple Case Study" was published by MDPI in the journal Sustainability. It is authored by Giovanna Mangialardi, Angelo Corallo, Mariangela Lazoi, and Barbara Scozzi. This paper explores the critical state of social housing in various countries, focusing particularly on Italy, and emphasizes the need for innovative management solutions.

Social housing is recognized globally as a fundamental right, yet many nations face significant challenges, including aging structures and inadequate services. In Italy, more than 60% of residential buildings were constructed before 1971, highlighting the urgent need for restoration and better management practices. This research investigates five regional public agencies in Italy responsible for managing social housing, using process theory and ambidextrous business process management as a framework for improvement.

The study identifies several key issues affecting the management of social housing. These include a lack of standardization across agencies, fragmented knowledge, outdated technology, and inadequate procedures primarily driven by emergency responses rather than preventive maintenance. As a result, regional agencies struggle to maintain their housing stock, which comprises approximately 54,600 public houses, many of which are over 40 years old and suffer from structural and energy inefficiencies.

A multiple case study approach was adopted, involving data collection through interviews, document analysis, and field observations. The authors developed high-level process models to standardize operations among the agencies, aiming to create a common vocabulary and improve overall efficiency. Critical issues were classified into five categories, revealing the operational complexities faced by these agencies.

The authors propose a 'to-be' model for improving the maintenance process based on two innovative approaches: Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Case-Based Reasoning (CBR). BIM technology allows for the centralization of asset information, facilitating better coordination and information sharing. Meanwhile, CBR enhances knowledge management by enabling agencies to draw on past experiences to solve new problems.

This study contributes to the understanding of process innovation and digital transformation in public administrations, particularly in the context of social housing management. The findings suggest that adopting a process view can significantly enhance operational efficiency, facilitate digital transformation, and improve stakeholder interactions. The research is seen as applicable not only in Italy but also in other Mediterranean countries facing similar challenges in social housing systems.

The paper concludes that a comprehensive, standardized approach to managing social housing is essential for ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of public housing systems. The combination of process theory and advanced management practices can drive meaningful change in how social housing is managed, ultimately contributing to better living conditions for vulnerable populations across Europe.