Norwegian companies are facing a challenging transformation where digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), green technology and uncertain markets are changing the way we develop products and services. Many businesses find it difficult to achieve effective collaboration across disciplines, and new technologies and ways of working meet resistance from established processes, practices and organisational structures.
To succeed in this reality, we need Transdisciplinary collaboration – a form of leadership that makes it possible to collaborate effectively across disciplines, value chains and businesses. The research at CELECT aims to contribute new knowledge on how organisations can lead innovation in complex ecosystems.
Brief summary
This research area aims to help Norwegian companies to:
- develop better business models,
- succeed with AI and digital transformation,
- build leadership and cross-disciplinary collaboration that can withstand complexity.
The goal is to strengthen companies' ability to innovate, adapt and create competitiveness in a time with high demands for both digitalisation and sustainability.
Why are we researching this?
Norwegian industry sees an increasing need to:
- develop new ecosystem-based business models
- integrate AI and digital systems into existing work processes
- handle rapid changes in technology, market and regulations
- create cross-disciplinary collaboration that actually works in practice.
Many businesses lack methodology, structures and leadership practices to do this in a coordinated, scalable and profitable way. Therefore, this research area builds knowledge that provides companies with concrete tools to manage innovation in complex systems.
What will we deliver?
We will develop a leadership framework for transdisciplinary innovation in complex systems. To achieve this, three key research contributions are being developed:
1. Ecosystem-based business model innovation
Companies succeed better when they see themselves as part of a larger ecosystem, not just as individual actors. CELECT will develop methods that help companies to:
- identify key actors and roles within the ecosystem
- develop business models that deliver economic, environmental and social benefits
- work interdisciplinary and learn across industries and organisations
The goal is to make ecosystem innovation concrete, accessible and practically applicable for Norwegian companies.
2. Change management for AI and digitalisation
Adopting AI is as much about people as it is about technology. Many organisations underestimate how much change is required in processes, roles, responsibilities and skills.
This sub-area explores how companies can develop:
- adaptable strategies for change management
- leadership practices that support integration of AI and digital systems
- models to handle rapid and unforeseen shifts in technology and market
3. Cross-disciplinary collaboration to solve complex problems
Innovation today requires cooperation between technologists, professionals, users, leaders and external partners. CELECT develops a framework for transdisciplinary collaboration that clarifies:
- which competencies and capabilities are needed
- how leaders can create structures that promote collaboration
- how to build trust – a foundation crucial for innovation in complex systems
Who are we collaborating with?
Our partners are leading players within defence, maritime and manufacturing – from large system suppliers to specialised engineering firms.
Would you like to know more or collaborate with us?
Contact our work package leader.
