DesignIT - An investment in interaction design for SMEs

Purpose

The aim of the project was for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region to strengthen their innovation capacity and their technological development through collaboration with researchers and other important players. Several SMEs developed their knowledge in interaction design, user experiences and user-centered development, and more companies buildt knowledge of and experience of innovation projects and of collaboration with researchers.

Challenge

Increased digitization in society and in working life means that more areas are using ICT, therefore investments in interaction design are needed in order for the innovations of the future to be competitive. A good understanding of the users, their driving forces and context is needed to develop well-functioning solutions. A design perspective on the interaction between people and new technology is central to the development of future applications and smart products.

Solution

Through a pre-study, the foundation was laid for how a successful project aimed at SMEs in the region should be organized. The project thus offers flexible forms of research collaboration and learning and with the possibility of different levels of participation, from innovation projects to workshops and seminars.

Effects                                                                                                 

The project contributes to sustainable growth in the regions, innovative SMEs, new collaborations between SMEs and researchers and new ideas and prototypes to further develop.