New solutions often need to be tested to see if they work as intended and what impact they have on their environment. Sometimes the innovation is so groundbreaking that it can pose risks or create unexpected effects if implemented immediately. In those cases, we use system demonstrators, a tool to create safe, real-world test environments.
What is a system demonstrator?
Imagine we have a big problem that needs to be solved. We have a technical solution or a new process that could be the answer, but we don't know if it works in its context, and we can't unleash it in real life. To be able to change entire systems, we need to be able to experiment and test without risk of consequences. In such cases, the system demonstrators tool can be the solution.
A system demonstrator is a form of controlled reality where it is possible to test new solutions and processes that do not fit within the regulatory framework in a real environment. You could say that it is a form of controlled reality that opens up opportunities to develop new processes, systems and innovations for a sustainable future. It functions as a tool for testing a mix of innovative solutions in a controlled way in real environments – and taking into account the context in which it will function.
A system demonstrator can be a physical location and function, but also a process. It can deal with policy barriers and regulations, logistics, people's travel habits, business models or technical solutions. It should be implemented from a systems perspective where all aspects are taken into account, including user behaviors, business models, regulations and infrastructure.
An important tool for innovation
When a change and innovation is introduced, many different processes in our everyday lives are affected. In a system demonstrator, a solution is tested from many different angles. It is a way to understand what needs to change in society to achieve transformation, and thereby find the path to change. Only until we can take into account all the aspects that are required can we solve a problem.
Transformation of societal systems is fundamental to achieving our sustainability goals, and it needs to be able to be tested in practice in an effective way. Such testing requires greater breadth than what labs and other infrastructure can offer. We need to examine what regulations are needed, what user behaviors look like and what technology is required. The interaction between the solution and reality is a key factor in achieving true system transformation.
Examples of investments
