Creating a roadmap to success

Data analysis serves as our watchdog, it scans the information we generate by monitoring and measuring multiple parameters. From the insights derived from feedback, assessing conformity and product requirements, to tracking process, product characteristics and trends, and monitoring suppliers, audits, and service reports.

But why do we embark on this data-driven journey? Because it enables us to continuously improve the quality of our medical device development services and react more quickly to any changes. By establishing clear key performance indicators (KPIs) and goals, and measuring their fulfillment or improvement, we can create a ‘roadmap to success’. From corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) driven by customer feedback to the profound impact of advisory notices.

Determining key performance indicators

So how did we integrate this data-driven approach? We diligently monitor and measure feedback, gauging customers’ experiences through feedback and satisfaction measurements. In addition, we determine conformity to product requirements based on verification, testing, and inspection KPIs.

Recognizing the vital role played by our suppliers, we continuously monitor their performance as well through yearly audits and their quality evolution. Rigorous monitoring of internal audits, second-party audits (from suppliers or customers), and third-party audits (by certification organizations, notified bodies, or competent authorities) allows us to respond and take proactive actions.

Innovation and exceptional results are born from collaboration with various people and processes. To ensure the smooth functioning of our design process, our personnel is conducting yearly training, and gate reviews are conducted on medical projects continuously. Furthermore, we continuously invest in our team’s growth by monitoring the average quantity of training per full-time employee each year, while sharing knowledge through our internal master classes remains.

In essence, this data-driven approach fueled by ISO 13485 propels us toward a future where continuous improvement isn’t just a goal but a way of life for the projects of our customers.

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What sparked your interest in innovation and product development? Lynn Michaux, Consultant DesignLab

“As a problem-solving enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to opportunities that require analytical thinking and creativity. When I stumbled upon flyers about Product Development and visited the campus in Antwerp, I knew this was something for me. There, I learned that I enjoy talking with different stakeholders to analyze their needs and wishes and design products and services that truly cater to their unique situations. I’m happy this is something I can do on a daily basis as a design consultant at Verhaert.”

“On the other hand, I also like how diverse innovation can be. Each day presents a new opportunity to explore different fields and topics. For instance, one day I might be exploring how to renovate a house in a sustainable way, and the next day I could be immersed in the world of coffee. It keeps the innovation process new and exciting each time.”

What’s been your biggest career achievement, Emmanuelle? Emmanuelle Lloveras, Purchase Manager & Quality Engineer

“At Verhaert, we have a lot of different customers in different industries, each with their own unique needs and requirements. This is directly reflected in our projects and multidisciplinary teams. One of my proudest achievements has been identifying the most efficient ways to help our teams in sourcing their materials. Whether it’s finding the most qualitative subcontractors or sourcing hard-to-find items like out-of-stock items or combined technologies, I’m challenged every day to think out of the box.”

Alexandra, what’s been the biggest innovation challenge you solved? Alexandra Hnativ, Consultant InnoLab

“One of the biggest challenges I face as an Innovation Consultant is jumping from industry to industry to provide our clients with the solutions they’re looking for. It requires a versatile mindset, adaptability, and a fast but deep understanding (ever new and new for me) of industries, technologies, or trends.”

“In the past years, I tapped the waters of many complex industries: from consumer appliance development and paper packaging innovation, to digital measures in healthcare. Even without engineering degrees in my pocket, it’s my MBA in marketing and a strong dose of curiosity that help me tackle these challenges head-on. Nevertheless, I’m sure my biggest challenge is yet to come!”

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First of all, congratulations to you and your teams on winning the CASSINI Business Accelerator contract! Pieter, for anyone who hasn’t heard about it, could you explain to us what this contract is all about?

“Yes, of course. The CASSINI Business Accelerator is a program from the European Commission to accelerate space start-ups and make them competitive in the global market. With a budget of €8.5 million, the European Commission wants to pull European space companies out of the shadows of the highly-invested American and Asian projects.”

What will this mean in practice? How will this money be used?

“The program will offer support through both learning and acceleration support, and €6 million in seed money. So the largest part of the budget will be dedicated to supporting the accelerated start-ups and scale-ups financially after finishing the program. The acceleration journey itself will consist of learning (Verhaert) and acceleration support (Plug and Play, CIVITTA and Sting) in dedicated locations and markets of interest, as well as mentorship in key areas such as sales and business development planning, investment readiness, and market expansion.”

A well-rounded program with a clear purpose! Who will be eligible for this program?

“All starting entrepreneurs within the European Union that are working on space-related innovation projects can apply to this program. Twice a year, 20 start-ups or scale-ups will be selected to participate in the 6-month acceleration journey.”

Benoit, you and your team are taking on quite the challenge. Why is Verhaert’s OpenLab in such a good spot to shape and manage the CASSINI Business Accelerator?

“Well, the CASSINI Business Accelerator is definitely the biggest accelerator contract we’ve ever won, but it’s not our first time managing this type of initiative. Over the last decade, we had a big role in other space acceleration initiatives like setting up and managing the ESA Space Solutions Center Belgium, including technology transfer, business incubation and funding. On top of that, we’ve co-organized programs like FIRE, Point.IoT and recently the CASSINI Hackathons. All this experience gives us the confidence to take on this new challenge together with Plug and Play, CIVITTA and Sting.”

Based on your experiences, what’s one aspect people sometimes overlook when setting up this kind of program?

“Acceleration programs are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Even if you set up a thematic accelerator targeted to one market, you still need to allow room for tailored support. The larger the group of participants, the more different their needs will be. To make sure all teams are fit to become key players in the international market, you will have different gaps to fill. That’s why we’re so pleased that Verhaert Innovation Academy, part of the Verhaert group, will also support this. Customizable innovation courses are one of their key offerings and expertises.”

Dany, you must feel really proud of your team for reaching this milestone. So tell us, what does this mean for the Strategic Innovation team and Verhaert in general?

“This contract confirms that we’re not only leaving a mark in the Belgian, but also the European and global innovation landscape. It’s truly a milestone in our efforts to help boost the European capacity to innovate and puts us in the pole position to continue doing so. Innovation is a well-established growth strategy, but unfortunately, the return is often too low. That’s where we can help.”

So does this mean that this accelerator will also benefit other innovation domains?

“Definitely! What Formula 1 does for the automotive industry, space does for many innovation areas on Earth. Space has become a very dynamic industry: large private space companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic are inspiring many small companies to capitalize on the innovation wave too. It’s become a technological playground to develop new materials, systems, technologies and so much more. That’s why ESA Space Solutions Belgium, for example, has been investing heavily in transferring space technology into everyday applications. It’s the future for innovation on Earth.”

And a final question, why should European NewSpace start-ups apply for the CASSINI Business Accelerator?

“Getting your product or service to the market successfully is not a walk in the park. Doing it alone is nearly impossible. Regardless of how far your technology stands, you still need an entire ecosystem to make it ready to launch. And that’s the unique offer of the CASSINI Business Accelerator, a direct link to experienced industry experts to build your network and connect with investors.”

Special thanks to Pieter, Benoit and Dany!

	Pieter Deleye Manager Innovation Acceleration Services – Strategic Innovation
	Benoit De Vrieze Coordinator OpenLab
	Dany Robberecht Director Strategic Innovation

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The post How Verhaert is boosting European space innovation [Interview] appeared first on Verhaert Masters in Innovation.

Every Life Sciences event discusses digitilization. How do you choose between investing in digitizing new products for customers and developing digital solutions for effective and innovative clinical trials? A completely different objective, different users, and different insights. That’s not all. Potential revenues differ significantly and the risk isn’t comparable. Is creating a specific application to gain user insights in trials even worth the money? In this session with Cochlear, Tom Bertens, Director Research Algorithms & Applications at Cochlear, and Laurent Schauvlieghe, Manager Innovation Acceleration at Verhaert Digital, will give you some inspiration on how to tackle this paradox.

Watch the recording

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