How can SMEs easily try out new software systems?
Some companies are already using digital technologies such as cross-platform development, the Internet of Things, Industry 4.0 or 5.0, mixed reality, blockchain, and artificial intelligence – but usually as isolated solutions for specific problems.
However, the barriers to entry for small and micro-enterprises are particularly high. To lower these barriers, FOTEC, the research company of the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, has now been awarded the contract for the project “ISI – Scientifically Evaluating, Testing, and Integrating Innovative Software Technologies for Industry” by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) within the framework of the COIN Aufbau program.
Evaluate, Test, Implement – Services for Companies
This project incorporates existing results from applied research in the technologies mentioned above. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have the opportunity to explore these technologies risk-free through use cases at FOTEC's Innovation Experience Lab (IXLab). Following a needs assessment, i.e., if the company's use case aligns with the available technology fields, it is evaluated for the company at the IXLab. Training on the technologies is also offered. Subsequently, the use case is adapted for the company so that it can be tested in a real-world business environment. This can also lead to access to other new digital technologies. The benefit for SMEs lies in the ability to engage with these digital technologies without having to train new staff or purchase expensive expertise. Once the use cases have been successfully tested within the company, they can be implemented economically.
What is the Innovation Experience Lab?
The so-called IXLab offers various areas that companies can utilize.
For example, augmented reality technologies connect VR headsets with mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. A range of sensors, processing, and transmission options are available to companies in the Internet of Things (IoT) sector. In the lab's "Assembly Area," a flexible manufacturing and order picking station will be set up. Modern technologies from the fields of augmented reality, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence will be employed here. Quality assurance is also addressed. The ability to automatically inspect goods, primarily using sensor technologies, is particularly interesting for the production sector.
The project started in January 2023 and is currently under development.
Further information can be found on the website, which is regularly updated. Stay tuned!
Link to the website: https://isi.fotec.at