WP1 Development of the platform ecosystem’s cooperation model and orchestration method and description of platform services

Work Package 1 conceptualizes and guides the technical development of a collaborative platform ecosystem within the biogas industry. The aim is to design a digital platform that outlines the cooperation model and orchestration method to enhance collaboration among key stakeholders in the biogas value chain, including biomass owners, biogas producers, distributors, users, and technical solution providers. Led by the University of Vaasa, Work Package 1 will develop an operational model based on the interactions through digital connectivity by mapping stakeholder needs and identifying value-adding services. This advance will establish a digital platform for collaboration and innovation, enabling regional development in the biogas market and supporting scalable, flexible business operations, particularly in Ostrobothnia, Central Ostrobothnia, and South Ostrobothnia, the three regions involved in the project.

The work began in December 2023 with Task 1.1, which involved a literature review of platform ecosystems and services, including benchmarking existing digital platforms. This task has been successfully completed. Following this, Task 1.2 focused on mapping stakeholders’ needs. Through regular communication, including interviews and workshops across the three regions, the project team engaged major stakeholders to gather valuable insights into the challenges they face in the biogas industry. These interactions have provided a deep understanding of stakeholders’ needs and expectations, ensuring that the platform addresses these requirements and remains relevant to the industry.

Currently, the project team is working on two critical fronts: identifying essential services and functionalities for the platform and advancing Task 1.3 which aims to develop a collaboration model that defines the operational and orchestration model for the platform, incorporates the essential functionalities, and clearly outlines the platform’s services. The plan involves defining how the platform will be governed, including which entity or consortium will be responsible for its maintenance, and clarifying the operating principles and rules for stakeholders’ participation and data exchange. The goal is to determine how the platform can facilitate collaboration, add value, and improve communication between the biogas hubs of the three regions.

Stakeholder feedback continues to play an important role in shaping the platform. The aim is to turn their challenges into opportunities by offering relevant services through the platform, ensuring they meet their needs and support the project’s overall goals. The focus is on building the platform to ensure the project’s long-term success by keeping it relevant to real-world operations and challenges. This approach will help the platform serve as a sustainable tool for ongoing collaboration and improvement in the biogas industry.

Work package 1 publications

WP1 Development of the platform ecosystem’s cooperation model and description of platform services