Innovation in Industry
Contact person: Knut Aarvak
The R&D work focuses on innovation processes in those sectors/clusters which are prioritised in the region. This includes the food, packaging, energy / environmental and the ICT industries.
The research is primarily concentrated on innovation in the individual company, but in addition is supported by co-operation with other companies working with clusters and networks - and also by cooperation with external experts, including research institutes, public enterprises, etc.
One particular area of research focuses on cooperation and participation based organisation of innovation processes, both within the individual company, but also in interaction with other firms and external experts.
The research includes strategic analyses at company, branch and regional level, in order to clarify and prioritise innovation needs.
Other issues being worked on include integrative employment, with particular emphasis on sick leave, the integration of employees with reduced working capacity and the prevention of exclusion from employment.
The research is carried out in close co-operation with the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Health and Social Studies at Høgskolen i Østfold (Ostfold University College).