Handbooks supporting companies’ digital transformation
For industrial companies developing connected products, the interplay between software, hardware and systems is becoming increasingly critical. At the same time, requirements for cybersecurity, sustainability and effective collaboration across complex value chains are growing. Against this backdrop, the strategic innovation programme Smartare elektroniksystem (Smarter Electronic Systems) provides handbooks – practical tools developed by the industry itself – to strengthen capabilities and reduce risks in product development.
– The handbooks are ‘self-help tools’. They are filled with checklists, practical tips and real-world examples that make it easier to get things right from the start, says Anna Wibom, Programme Director of Smartare Electronic Systems.
An innovation programme reaches the finish line
After more than a decade of investments in innovation, collaboration and skills development, the Smartare elektroniksystem programme is now approaching its conclusion.
Since its launch over ten years ago, the programme has aimed to strengthen the Swedish electronics industry by bringing together actors from across the entire value chain. Its focus has included several key areas: innovation and research collaboration, skills supply, strengthened competitiveness in value chains and – in recent years – sustainability.
Five handbooks that live on
One of the programme’s most appreciated initiatives is the five handbooks developed in close collaboration with industry. They cover areas such as cybersecurity in IoT products, power electronics and medical technology, and some have been produced in cooperation with other strategic innovation programmes.
In regulated sectors in particular, the right knowledge can make a significant difference.
– If you get it wrong, it becomes very costly. The handbooks help companies avoid pitfalls and shorten time to market, says Anna Wibom.
More than 8,000 copies have been downloaded, and thousands more have been distributed through training programmes and industry events. Several universities also use them in their teaching. What is unique is how generously the industry has shared its knowledge. There is a strong willingness to contribute to something bigger – to strengthen the entire field.
Practical support for cybersecurity
One of the most pressing areas is cybersecurity in connected products. Here, the handbooks serve as practical support throughout the product lifecycle – from development to end-of-life.
– Today, cybersecurity is not only a technical issue, but also a geopolitical one. Connected products can be exploited by hostile actors and even state interests. That makes it crucial that every link in the chain is secure, Anna Wibom continues.
A tool for the future
For industrial companies working with digital solutions, the handbooks provide valuable insight into the interaction between software and hardware – something that is often underestimated. Software always lives in hardware. Understanding both perspectives is essential, not least when it comes to requirements setting and system design.
Although the programme is now coming to an end, the handbooks are intended to live on.
– They are not a documentation of what has been, but a tool for the future – for both new and established companies, says Anna Wibom.
What happens next?
As the programme concludes, several of the handbooks are being updated to reflect new regulations and technical requirements. At the same time, the work continues through new collaborations, including with Svensk Elektronik, which offers training based on the material.
Looking ahead, the key question is how Sweden can continue to strengthen its position in the electronics sector.
– Globally, we see major investments, particularly in the US and Asia. Europe is lagging behind, and Sweden needs to continue investing strategically. Electronics is a fundamental part of digitalisation – it cannot be overlooked, says Anna Wibom.
Within the programme, there is now a strong hope that the experiences from Smartare elektroniksystem will be carried forward into new initiatives.
– We have shown what works. Now it is about maintaining momentum, Anna concludes.