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Economic Development Agencies: Best Practices You Should Know in 2024
Here's a little-known secret to fast-track your region's economic growth.
Economic development agencies hold the key to unlocking rapid regional growth. By adopting the power of digital platforms, they can supercharge their efforts and leave a lasting impact on their communities.
As the driving force behind local economic success, development agencies fund projects, support businesses, and magnetize investors. Economic development agencies work tirelessly to create thriving, innovative ecosystems that benefit everyone.
The secret weapon for economic development agencies?
Digital platforms.
Here are 5 ways digitalization can streamline operations, foster collaboration, and amplify impact, propelling your regions to new levels of prosperity.
What are Economic Development Agencies?
Economic Development Agencies (EDAs) are pivotal organizations tasked with stimulating local economies. Their mission? To enhance job creation, nurture business growth, and facilitate community development.
With a focus on attracting investments, providing resources for startups, and improving infrastructure, EDAs play a crucial role in shaping vibrant economic landscapes. They serve as essential bridges between government resources and business needs, ensuring the economy not only grows but thrives.
For example, EURADA (European Association of Development Agencies), focuses on establishing collaboration among practitioners in reg ional economic development in Europe.
They connect members with regional development agencies, business partners, and European authorities. EURADA is actively involved in projects across various programs like Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, and Erasmus+, aiming to drive innovation and sustainable development across the EU.
Key Challenges Faced by Economic Development Agencies
Economic development agencies often find themselves in a frustrating predicament.
Juggling the diverse needs of businesses, universities, and NGOs can feel like an uphill battle, leaving program managers stretched thin and wondering if there's a better way.
… And let’s not even get started with how information silos and missed opportunities are the silent killers of progress.
As if that wasn't enough, there are more reasons to make anyone want to pull their hair out:
- Relying on personal networks and endless email chains
- In-person services can only reach so far, limiting your impact
- Slow, frustrating, and costly IT processes make implementing changes a nightmare.
All of this can leave you questioning if you're truly making a difference.
But here's the thing: it doesn't have to be this way.
With the right tools at your fingertips, you'll be able to navigate the challenges with ease and leave a lasting impact on your community.
Let’s see how.
Best Practices for Economic Development Agencies in 2024
Promote Collaboration and Networking
Collaboration and networking are the keys to unlocking success in economic development.
By creating a dedicated Public Economic Development platform, agencies can encourage partnerships, facilitate knowledge transfer, and help businesses identify synergies.
Take a look at Business Metropole Ruhr: These guys are the masterminds behind matchmaker.ruhr, a LoftOS-built platform for regional innovation and matchmaking. They're supporting the Ruhr region on its way to becoming a modern and forward-looking business location, bundling the economic interests of 53 cities and municipalities.
And Startup.niedersachsen connecting businesses, startups, and investors like never before in the Lower Saxony area.
Imagine what a platform like this could do for your agency. You'll be able to promote collaboration, support SMEs, and attract investment with ease.
Talk about a powerhouse!
Strengthen the R&I Ecosystem
Fortifying that R&I ecosystem is also crucial for driving innovation and economic growth.
By investing in research and innovation hubs and connecting businesses with academic institutions, economic development agencies can create a thriving environment for joint R&D projects.
The Economic Development Agency Brandenburg (WFBB) is a shining example of how to support investors, companies, and startups. They offer comprehensive services for economic and employment promotion, making them a central hub for business development in the region.
When you have a platform that facilitates collaboration, networking, and innovation like LoftOS. With features like user profiles, organization databases, and the ability to host challenges and hackathons, you'll be well-equipped to strengthen your R&I ecosystem and drive real results.
LoftOS comes pre-built with Members and Organizations modules to make it easy to bring everyone together in one place.
Attract Foreign Investment
Developing targeted marketing campaigns that highlight regional strengths and streamlining processes for networking with foreign businesses can put your agency on the map. Offering incentives and support services for international investors sweetens the deal even further.
Check out the cutting-edge initiative NRW.Global.Connect, a LoftOS-powered global innovation platform born from a partnership between the Ministry of Economic Affai rs, Innovation, Digitalization and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and The Office of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia in Israel.
The platform connect companies, research institutes, clusters, hubs, and other actors from their region with innovation hotspots worldwide with a primary focus on Israel. By networking with international technology drivers, they're ensuring that their companies remain leaders in innovation and internationalization.
And let's not forget about Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI), the Federal Republic of Germany's international economic promotion agency.
They offer free confidential advice and project support to companies interested in expanding to Germany, making it easier than ever for international businesses to set up shop.
Now imagine what your agency could achieve by focusing on attracting foreign investment?
With the right tools and strategies in place, you'll be well on your way to creating a thriving, globally connected economy that benefits everyone.
Cultivate a Startup Ecosystem
Want to drive innovation and economic growth in your region? Then it's time to focus on cultivating a startup ecosystem.
When you create programs and resources that support entrepreneurs, like incubators, accelerators, and provide easier access to funding, you're laying the foundation for a thriving ecosystem that can sustain itself for years to come.
Just look at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), a government agency that's doing it right when it comes to supporting startups.
This program focuses on building partnerships within the Dutch ecosystem to improve facilities for innovative entrepreneurship. By bringing together private organizations, public institutions, and even municipalities and provinces, RVO is creating a collaborative environment where startups can thrive.
Support Digital Transitions
To wrap it up, let's talk about supporting digital transitions.
Because let's face it, if you're not helping your local organizations and businesses navigate the digital landscape, you're leaving them in the dark.
Take for example, France’s Regional Digital and Artificial Intelligence Agency (ARNia) coming together from the BFC region. Backed by ANSSI, the French national agency for information systems security, it support citizens, companies and communities in their digital transition and development.
See, it's not just about providing the tools – it's about empowering people with the knowledge and skills to use those tools effectively.
And when you do that, you're not just supporting individual organizations – you're building a stronger, more resilient ecosystem overall.
Providing guidance and incentives for businesses adopting digital practices is like giving them a roadmap to success.
You're helping them navigate the complex digital landscape, pointing them towards the tools and strategies that will help them thrive in an increasingly digital world.
And the easiest way to do it? With a digital economic development platform.
Leveraging Digital Platforms for Economic Development
If you've made it this far, you're clearly interested in taking your economic innovation efforts to the next level. And let me tell you, creating your own custom economic development platform is the way to do it.
Simply put, by embracing having your own digital public economic development platform, you're not just keeping up with the times – you're setting yourself up for success.
It's not just about having a digital presence. It's about centralizing everything in one place.
Imagine having all your resources, services, and opportunities available at the click of a button. No more hunting through endless emails or trying to remember where you saved that one important document.
With a centralized economic development software for governments, everything is right at your fingertips.
Now, I know what you might be thinking. Don’t IT projects take too long?
Well, think again.
User-friendly, no-code modular platforms like LoftOS are the future. Why?
They're easier to use, more cost-effective, and can be tailored to your specific needs without the headache of starting from scratch. As you can imagine, we like to say that, ultimately, buying software wins every time.
Speaking of software, we think you might be interested in what LoftOS can offer…
Introducing LoftOS’s No-Code Economic Development Software
With LoftOS, you can centralize all your initiatives, resources, and opportunities in one user-friendly platform.
Forget about bouncing between different systems or trying to keep track of countless spreadsheets. Everything you need is right at your fingertips, allowing you to collaborate more effectively, make data-driven decisions, and ultimately drive better results for your region.
Check out how LoftOS helped revolutionize Lower Saxony's startup scene with a centralized regional platform for innovation to streamline col laboration and drive real impact for their community.
And the best part? You can get started with LoftOS today, for free.
That's right, our economic development software template is ready and waiting for you to take it for a spin.
So what are you waiting for?
Ditch the outdated tools and embrace digital. Centralize your initiatives, collaborate more effectively, and watch as your region becomes a hotbed of innovation and growth. The future of economic development is here, and it starts with you.
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Technology and Government: How These 10 Trends Are Revolutionizing the Way Governments Operate
The future of government is digital.
As technology moves forward at an increasing pace, governments must embrace innovation to efficiently serve their constituents and drive regional growth. By taking advantage of cutting-edge technologies, leaders can transform the way their organizations operate, creating a more transparent, responsive, and citizen-centric government.
From hot topics like artificial intelligence and blockchain, to digital platforms for citizen engagement, these powerful tools offer tangible benefits and real-world applications. GovTech is a fascinating world worth exploring.
This article explores the top 10 government technology trends reshaping the government landscape and provides tips to learn how you can harness these trends to modernize your government to deliver exceptional solutions to your community.
What is GovTech?
GovTech, short for Government Technology, refers to the use of technology to improve government services, operations, and interactions with citizens.
While most tech deals with B2B (business-to-business) and B2C (business-to-consumer) models, GovTech introduces a new dimension: B2G (business-to-government). This rapidly growing field encompasses a wide range of digital solutions, from cloud computing and artificial intelligence to blockchain and online portals, yes the ones you use to apply for citizen services or pay your taxes.
B2G involves businesses selling products or services directly to government agencies, helping them streamline processes, reduce costs, and strengthen the delivery of public services.
In short, GovTech is transforming the way governments function, making them more efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of their constituents.
Why is Technology in Government Important?
So why is tech's role in government a big deal?
In the rhythm of our digital lives, where we expect everything to be quick, simple, and secure, government services can feel like they're stuck in the last century. Take Germany for example, the lack of government digitalization has stopped the country from getting up to speed.
Now, imagine a shift.
Governments embracing tech means transforming how services reach its citizens. It's not just about making life easier; it's about fueling economic growth and putting cities on the map as tech-savvy hubs.
Think online portals, automated processing, digital resources and even regional innovation platforms, where all stakeholders come together to drive innovation under one digital roof.
Now, why does this matter?
Well… In the grand scheme, investing in government tech is about enhancing our quality of life and setting the stage for a future that's not only brighter but also smarter.
Government Technology is Redefining How We Live and Work in Every Way
The potential applications of technology in government are vast and far-reaching.
In fact, GovTech is gaining more and more momentum.
From smart city initiatives that optimize digital health infrastructure to online platforms that facilitate collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders, government technology is redefining how we live and work in every way.
Platforms like LoftOS are contributing to this transformation, providing regional entities and governments with the tools they need to create efficient, integrated networks where all players can come together and drive innovation. As well as bridging the IT skills gap to accelerate digitalization.
As we explore the top trends shaping the future of government technology, it's obvious that the possibilities are endless for those who embrace this digital revolution.
10 Government Technology Trends to Bridge the Gap for Better Services
1. Online Portals and Self-Service Platforms
Online portals and self-service platforms are revolutionizing the way governments deliver services to their citizens.
They provide a centralized, digital gateway for accessing information and completing transactions, these tools facilitate government processes and improve the user experience.
Think of online portals for license renewals, legal document applications, citizen registration and more.
Estonia, the first state to use blockchain technology, is a world leader in GovTech. Their e-Government portal, e-Estonia, allows citizens to access a wide range of services online, including:
- Health
- Filing taxes
- Managing childcare and family benefits automatically
- Time & location independent internet voting (I-voting)
- Smart IDs application
- and even e-Marriage.
With 99% of their services already online, Estonia has kept bureaucracy at a minimum, setting a prime example of how online portals can revolutionize citizen-government interactions.
This increased accessibility reduces wait times and eliminates the need for in-person visits to government offices.
2. Internal Administration Platforms
Internal administration platforms are the unsung heroes of government technology.
These tools centralize data management and sharing, foster collaboration across departments, and provide valuable insights for social planning and population development.
A prime example of this is the Netherlands' Rijkscloud.
This secure cloud-based platform, built upon the foundation of ODC-Noord, the country's northernmost government data center, empowers agencies to store and share data seamlessly.
The Rijkscloud allows the public to securely exchange confidential information and documents with the Dutch public sector.
ODC-Noord also offers a suite of services including Housing-as-a-Service, Platform-as-a-Service, and Infrastructure-as-a-Service, making it easier and more efficient for government teams to access and analyze large amounts of data.
3. Digital Citizen Engagement Platforms
Digital citizen engagement platforms are transforming the way governments interact with their constituents. These tools provide a direct line of communication between agencies and the people they serve, fostering transparency, trust, and collaboration.
When taking advantage of these platforms, governments can easily share important information, announce initiatives, and gather feedback from citizens. This two-way communication ensures that decisions and operations align with the needs and preferences of the community.
Platforms like Decidim take citizen engagement to the next level by enabling participatory decision-making and consultation processes.
Through these tools, governments can involve citizens in the policy-making process, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their ideas are considered.
4. Environmental and Urban Technology platforms
Environmental and urban technology platforms are transforming how cities operate and manage resources. These platforms leverage IoT sensors, data analytics, and AI to monitor and optimize various aspects of urban life.
Take smart city platforms, for instance. They keep a watchful eye on infrastructure, traffic flow, energy use, and waste management, giving city officials the data-driven insights they need to make informed decisions and allocate resources expertly.
A good example we can’t go without mentioning is vialytics.
Their technology revolutionizes road and cycle path management for municipalities and public administrations. Leveraging AI, it automates road condition assessment, identifies damage in 15 categories, and facilitates digital route control via a simple smartphone app.
5. Health and Social GovTech Solutions
The world of digital health is taking off like a rocket!
This trend is booming, especially after the push for digitalization during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital health management solutions are revolutionizing how citizens access and manage their health information, making it easier than ever to stay on top of their well-being.
Social service support is also benefiting from GovTech innovations.
Platforms like CompetenSYS, a Dutch solution designed for the social security sector, is revolutionizing how municipalities, social work, and employment companies assist their clients. By using diagnostics, value assessment, and matching services, CompetenSYS aligns closely with government initiatives aimed at improving labor market integration and social welfare systems.
6. Data Security Solutions for Governments
Cybersecurity has become a top priority for governments in the EU. With the rise of cyber threats and the need to protect sensitive information, data loss prevention is crucial. Data security is paramount for governments as they handle a vast amount of sensitive information, including citizen data, critical infrastructure details and even national security secrets.
That means robust security measures are essential to strengthen trust in the digital economy and safeguard citizens' privacy.
The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) plays a vital role in establishing a high common level of cybersecurity across Europe. By sharing knowledge, building capacity, and raising awareness, ENISA helps prepare Europe for the digital challenges of tomorrow.
7. Blockchain for Government Services
Blockchain is more than just a buzzword. It's a game-changer for government services.
This revolutionary technology, known for its secure and transparent nature, has the potential to transform various aspects of government operations.
Think financial transactions and foreign aid delivery to central banking and hack-proof record-keeping, blockchain in government could be opening up a world of possibilities.
But the applications of blockchain in government are plenty.
Notable examples can include land registry, where it can provide proof of ownership and facilitate transfers, voting systems that ensure the integrity of elections, and identity management, where it can expedite legal contract creation and execution by removing the need for intermediaries.
In fact, Denmark's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already partnered with virtual currency platform Coinify to explore the use of blockchain in foreign aid delivery, aiming to improve the distribution of assistance to impoverished regions.
As more governments recognize the potential of blockchain, we can expect to see a wave of innovation in the public sector.
8. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and ML are also a big GovTech trend for governments, enabling data-driven decisions and personalized citizen services.
From predictive analytics and chatbots to fraud detection and automated document processing, these technologies are set to transform the public sector.
Healthcare is a prime example, where these technologies can help prevent disease spread by identifying potential outbreaks early. However, implementing AI and ML in government isn't without its challenges. Data privacy concerns, algorithmic biases, and the need for human oversight are all critical considerations.
Finland's Social Insurance Institution (Kela) showcases the potential of AI with their multilingual chatbots, Kela-Kelpo and FPA-Folke, which help with citizen inquiries and provide smooth service delivery in Finnish, Swedish and also English.
As governments embrace these technologies, we can expect a new era of efficient, personalized public services.
9. The Transition from DevOps to DevEx
In the world of software development, a new paradigm is emerging – DevEx, or Developer Experience. This trend shifts the focus from solely improving operational efficiency (DevOps) to enhancing the overall experience of developers working on projects.
When it comes to government technology, DevEx can help government agencies reducing inefficiencies, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and offering continuous learning opportunities.
Italy's Developers Italia initiative is a prime example of a government fo cusing on DevEx to bolster its digital transformation efforts.
However, the transition to DevEx isn't without challenges. Government agencies often face slower development cycles due to complex regulations and legacy systems.
By embracing the concept of citizen developers – empowering non-IT professionals to create applications using low-code or no-code platforms – agencies can bridge the IT skills gap and accelerate innovation.
10. Economic Development Software (One Platform Approach)
The use of comprehensive economic development software takes a one-platform approach.
This innovative solution aims to fast track and integrate various aspects of economic development, making it easier for governments to attract investments, support local businesses, and foster regional growth all under one roof.
By bringing together key players such as businesses, universities, and NGOs on a single, user-friendly platform, governments can break down silos and unlock the full potential of their regions.
Take Matchmaker Ruhr for example, powered by LoftOS, has created the first digital and international matchmaking platform for companies in the Ruhr area, connecting businesses and fostering collaboration.
And then there's innomatch, a shining example of how LoftOS is revolutionizing Lower Saxony's startup scene. By leveraging our software solution, they've created a centralized regional platform for innovation – an all-in-one, vibrant startup network that's driving economic growth and putting Lower Saxony on the map.
Modernize Your Government Technology in 2024
As we've seen, government technology is undergoing a rapid transformation. But for many agencies, implementing these advanced solutions can feel overwhelming.
That's where our no-code Economic Development Software comes in.
With our free, user-friendly template, you can centralize every process, map your ecosystem, match stakeholders, host digital events, share knowledge, and promote investments – all without writing a single line of code or relying on IT.
5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Its Own Matchmaking Platform
Still playing matchmaker, hoping your next matching initiative will spark meaningful connections for your network?
You've tried the usual suspects: speed networking, industry conferences, and even virtual events. But let's face it, these one-off gatherings often fail to create lasting partnerships or drive real growth for your organization.
It's time to ditch the dating app approach to business matchmaking and try something that truly puts you in control.
So, what's the alternative?
A Business Matchmaking Platform designed specifically for your organization.
Imagine being able to:
- Cut through the noise and empower your community to connect with ideal partners 24/7
- Use data insights in your favor to offer a curated experience to your users
- Explore new monetization opportunities with a new channel that is fully yours
- Run in-person, virtual and event-based matchmaking from one centralized platform
The best part? You don't need to be a tech wizard or have a massive budget to make it happen.
In this article, we’ll show you exactly why you need a Business Matchmaking Platform and how to create your own to start reaping the benefits immediately.
What is a Business Matchmaking Platform?
A Business Matchmaking Platform is a powerful digital tool that allows your organization to connect your members with ideal partners, customers, and new opportunities. It's like owning a personal matchmaker for your business, but without the awkward first dates.
Business Matchmaking Platforms use intelligent algorithms to suggest relevant connections to your users based on specific criteria you define.
But how does it differ from traditional networking or event matchmaking?
Traditional networking mostly relies on old-school manual outreach, which can be time-consuming and ineffective. Event matchmaking, while more focused, is limited to a specific time and place.
Having a dedicated B2B matchmaking software for your business, on the other hand, is like having at your disposal an always-on, year-round solution that makes all other traditional networking events seem like a shot in the dark.
Benefits of Business Matchmaking Platforms
What if you could give your network the power to make speed-up connections at the click of a button?
In today's hyper-connected world, strategic partnerships are the lifeblood of any thriving business. In fact, for B2B companies, research suggests that neglecting networking could lead to a 28% drop in business.
But let's face it, you know, finding the right matches can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
That's where a Business Matchmaking Platform comes in. By offering your network an online matchmaking capability, you can solve this pain point efficiently and effectively.
The best part?
With no-code solutions like LoftOS, creating your own B2B matchmaking software is easier than you think.
Keep reading to discover the five key reasons why building your own Business Matchmaking Platform is a must for your organization.
5 Key Reasons Why Your Business Need a Dedicated Matchmaking Software
1. Build Your Own Asset and Channel:
Why settle for generic, one-size-fits-all matchmaking platforms that fail to capture the essence of your brand?
Imagine a tech-transfer institute leveraging their own branded platform to facilitate collaborations between researchers and industry partners. Or a startup accelerator building their own matchmaking platform to connect founders with mentors and investors.
There’s no limit to what you can do.
By owning your matchmaking channel, you can also cross-sell other products and services to your engaged user base. Let's say you're a trade association. You can promote your upcoming conferences, workshops, and publications directly through your platform, driving more revenue and strengthening your brand.
But that's not all.
With a white-label solution like LoftOS, you have the freedom to customize eve ry aspect of your platform to perfectly align with your unique brand identity. From colors and features, to crafting your own custom modules, you can create a wholesome matchmaking experience that truly reflects your brand – something that generic, gray label tools simply can't match.
This level of customization not only sets you apart from the competition but also fosters a deeper connection with your users. They'll associate your brand with a seamless, tailored matchmaking experience, leading to increased loyalty and engagement.
2. Fuel Customer Loyalty with Year-Round B2B Matchmaking:
Tired of the "one and done" mentality of traditional event-based matchmaking platforms?
It's time to break free from the limitations of short-term connections and unlock the power of year-round B2B matchmaking.
Just look at how our customer Matchmaker.Ruhr connects the most innovative startups from Germany and beyond to an all-rounded innovation ecosystem 24/7 with all the networking tools they need.
And the best part? The connections don't stop when the event ends.
With your own tailored year-round B2B matchmaking platform, your users can connect and collaborate whenever they need. It's like having a never-ending trade show, minus the stale coffee and uncomfortable name tags.
Beyond connectivity, a B2B matchmaking platform builds community.
Remember: A thriving, engaged user base is a valuable asset for any platform owner. Not only does it attract new members, but it also opens up endless possibilities for revenue generation and brand growth.
So, why settle for a matchmaking platform that only serves your users once a year?
3. Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity:
You know what they say: time is money.
… And if you're still relying on traditional matchmaking processes, you're basically throwing both out the window. Specially when 70% of the time networking presents new opportunities for business owners, it’s important you do it right.
So, let's cut to the chase: building your own B2B matchmaking platform is the smartest way to boost efficiency and productivity.
Why? Because you're in control.
No more relying on third-party platforms that may or may not meet your needs. With your own platform, you call the shots. You can automate the matchmaking process based on your specific criteria, saving you time and headaches.
And here's the kicker: when you own your platform, you can optimize it to your heart's content. Tweak, adjust, and improve based on data and user feedback. The result? A matchmaking machine that drives real results for your business.
Speaking of data, with complete control, comes the power to harness it in ways that can transform your business. And that's exactly what we'll explore next.
4. Control Over Data and Its Usage:
In today's data-driven world, user trust is paramount.
That’s why, by owning your B2B matchmaking platform, you are able to give your users complete peace of mind about their information, knowing it's stored safely with you and not in a third party application.
With full control over your data, you can:
- Implement robust security measures that foster trust among your users
- Personalize the user experience and fine tune matching
- Use data insights in your favor to offer a curated experience to your users
- Monetize specialized member databases through paid memberships.
LoftOS comes with ‘Packages’, a feature that empowers you to unlock new revenue streams and tailor a unique experience for your users.
You can create tiered access levels, letting you monetize exclusive features, functionalities or grant access to special member groups through premium upgrades.
Plus, you get to control exactly who sees what, which keeps things nice and organized.
By understanding how your users interact, you can create a platform that not only meets their needs but exceeds their expectations. And that's the key to understand user needs and preferences in a way that external platforms can't.
5. Competitive Edge:
In today's competitive business landscape, differentiation is key.
Having your own B2B matchmaking platform is like having a secret weapon up your sleeve, enabling you to deliver a level of service and value that sets you apart from the crowd.
By centralizing all your matchmaking efforts into one platform, you'll not only save time and resources but also provide a level of convenience and efficiency that sets you apart from the rest.
But as more businesses recognize the power of matchmaking platforms, the window of opportunity is closing. Forward-thinking organizations are already making moves to establish their own platforms and secure their position as industry leaders.
The question is: will you join them at the forefront of innovation, or risk being left behind as the market evolves?
So don't wait until it's too late.
Seize this moment to differentiate your business, deliver unparalleled value to your users, and solidify your spot as a leader in your industry.
What to Look for in a Business Matchmaking Platform?
So, you're ready to take the step and create your own B2B matchmaking platform. Congrats!
But how do you choose the right one?
First off, let's talk basics.
Any matchmaking platform worth its salt should have a solid set of communication tools. We're talking messaging, video chat, shared calendars, event hosting capabilities – the works.
Because let's face it, virtual networking is the name of the game these days.
After all, studies show that a staggering 92% of people prefer online meetings or social media connections over in-person interaction.
So you want to make it as seamless as possible for your users.
A great matchmaking platform should also come with robust analytics and reporting features. Why? Because data is your fortune-teller. By understanding how your users interact with your platform, you can make smarter decisions and create a better overall experience.
But the real game-changer is customization.
A truly exceptional matchmaking platform should be as unique as your business, allowing you to define your own matching criteria and attributes.
And that's where our matchmaking system shines. If you want to build a matchmaking platform you can truly call your own, let us show you why LoftOS is your best bet.
Your Next Steps with LoftOS’s All-in-One Comprehensive Business Matchmaking Platform
Look, if you're still relying on one-off events for your matchmaking, you're missing out on a world of opportunities.
And I mean, a lot of opportunities.
But with LoftOS, you can create a matchmaking platform that works for you 24/7, 365 days a year. No coding required.
Platform admins can define custom data collection points, called attributes, for different user types on your platform, as well as created tailored onboarding journeys to fine-tune the matchmaking algorithm and always choose the best from day one.
Not only can you rely on our automated matching system, but you also have the ability to make "handpicked matches" when you see fit.
This means you can override the system's suggestions and define your own matches based on your unique insights and expertise.
You're the master matchmaker, with the ability to override system matches and curate the perfect pairings for your community. It's like having a matchmaking assistant on demand.
So, if you're ready to take your matchmaking game to the next level, create your free B2B matchmaking platform using our templates. Trust me, your future self (and your future community) will thank you.
Meet LoftOS's Business Matchmaking System To Connect Smarter
Feeling frustrated watching your community struggle to make meaningful connections? You know the pain of seeing promising partnerships slip through the cracks with dead-end networking conversations.
You're not alone. In fact, 99% of traditional networking is pretty much a waste of time.
But what if you could play matchmaker and facilitate real interactions and provide tangible value within your network? That's where LoftOS comes in.
We've supercharged our intelligent business matchmaking system to empower you to create tailored connections effortlessly.
In this piece, we'll show you how LoftOS is completely customizable, allowing you to handpick ideal matches for your community based on the exact criteria that matter most to your business.
No coding required, just pure efficiency.
With LoftOS you're in control. Define your preferences, tweak weightings, and nurture connections at your own pace.
And we want to tell you all about our latest update.
The Flexible Business Matchmaking Foundation: LoftOS No-Code Configurability
True networking mastery requires more than just basic filters - it's about making genuine connections that click on a deeper level. That's where LoftOS truly shines with its unmatched flexibility for tailored business matchmaking.
Right out of the box, our no-code platform comes set up with pre-built modules for common needs like Offers, Requests, Events, and more. But don't stop there - LoftOS allows you to easily build additional custom modules matched to your unique needs and goals.
Yes, it's all powered by our integrated no-code tools. Let’s see how that looks.
What Powers LoftOS Business Matchmaking?
Within each module, you'll find databases for storing specific data types. Not only can you customize these databases with access controls and filters, but you can define your own user types with distinct sections and attributes to capture the data points you need.
For example, if you are a program manager running a startup accelerator program you could easily define custom user types like "Mentors", “Founders”, “Investors” or "Rising Stars" with enriched specific section and attributes collecting information that genuinely matter such as:
- Amount of customers
- Skills
- Credentials
- Languages spoken
- Certificationns
- Pitch deck
In the backend, platforms admins can decide whether this attribute is a Free-text, Multi-Choice, Linear Scale, File Upload, etc…for capturing nuanced details that lead to meaningful matches down the road.
The options are limitless.
But we don't stop there.
LoftOS connects those rich user profiles with fully tailored onboarding journeys. New members, defined by the user types created before, are guided to provide all the right info upfront, setting them up for success from day one.
It's a holistic approach to business matchmaking - first understanding your distinct audience segments, then continually enhancing matches as your community's needs evolve.
Oh…and that's just scratching the surface of LoftOS's customizability.
This unparalleled flexibility is baked into our entire platform DNA. When it comes to crafting the ideal networking experience, you're empowered to design it all in a code-free, user-friendly environment that we’ll tell you below.
How LoftOS Matchmaking Works
Creating tailored matches is as easy as 1-2-3-4. Our intuitive four-step flow empowers you to facilitate any kind of strategic connection - from pairing students with mentors to matching investors with startups.
It's business matchmaking elevated to an art form. Let’s see how it looks.
Step 1: Connect the user types you want to match. For example, let's say you're building a university innovation platform. You'd simply select the "Student" and "Coach" types you previously defined, and LoftOS automatically knows exactly which audiences to match.
Step 2: Create your match "recipe" by pairing up relevant attributes from each user type. Maybe Students have an attribute for a section entitled "What I'm Looking For?" with options like coaching, mentorship, co-founders. Match that against Coaches' section "What I Offer" choices like leadership training or consulting. The possibilities are limitless.
Step 3: Set any additional conditions for an ideal match. Looking for local coaches only? Or Students with specific expertise? Just toggle those preferences to filter suggestions.
Step 4: Finalize by adjusting the match quality threshold and to maximum suggestions a user will receive after the matching is set up. For example, Admins can set a 90% quality minimum that ensures a great company matchmaking, while capping at 3 suggestions prevents overwhelming your users.
And that's it! Your intelligent matchmaking is now live, ready to connect members with their most compatible counterparts.
You Have The Power To Create Anything You Dream of
But what truly sets LoftOS apart is the boundless flexibility to craft your own unique matching experience from scratch. From investors and entrepreneurs to jobseekers and employers.
Think:
- Real estate agents matching properties to buyers
- Companies matched with relevant support consultants
- Accommodation seekers paired with ideal room/flatmate options
- Buyers automatically matched to compatible sellers
- Dating/friendship connections based on shared interests and values
LoftOS hands you the reins to bring your wildest matchmaking vision to life. And we take it a step further by naturally bridging this process to your custom Onboarding journeys.
From the moment a new user signs up, you can prompt them to provide all the critical insights that will unlock top level matching - from core traits and preferences down to niche requirements.
LoftOS combines intelligent business matchmaking algorithms with human-centered onboarding to ensure your members are paired with ideal counterparts from day one.
Matchmaking your way: Handpick Your Matches
But what if you want to take networking into your own hands?
Beyond smart automated matching capabilities, we empower you to take full control as the master matchmaker. With intuitive overrides, you get to handpick any connections you prefer.
Spotted two members who would be a powerful partnership?
As platform admin, you can simply boost that suggested match to 100% compatibility with a few clicks. Or if our system surfaces an unwanted lukewarm suggestion, you can hide or bump it down entirely. This granular control means your members only see the most viable introductions.
The choice is yours to curate only the most promising pairings for your community.
So let's say you've identified a prime consultant for a governmental project opportunity. With handpicked matches, you can directly initiate that connection, overriding the system match to a 100% compatibility rating.
Prefer to go totally manual at times?
You can also toggle to display only your personal handpicked matches temporarily. It's the perfect blend of automated efficiency and human curation. You remain the networking authority, while our technology simplifies the heavy lifting.
Getting Started: Your Roadmap to Better Business Matchmaking
Behind every great partnership is a well-engineered journey, getting the right people in the right networking stream. But you're wondering how to actually get started, right?
Here's how that journey begins for you:
First, head over to our free platform templates and choose the use case that best fits your matchmaking needs. Entrepreneurship hub? Community network? We've got a template to kickstart your growth.
From there, you'll define the core modules for your platform and within the attributes that capture your members' must-have details.
Then ask yourself, “What are the key traits you need to facilitate networking?” Make those traits your matching data points by building out dedicated sections. Not sure how? Check out our guide on launching a tailored platform 10x faster.
Once that's done, navigating to the matchmaking settings is easy - just head to the admin panel, scroll down to "Other" and click on ‘Matchmaking’.
Told you it was simple.
But let's be honest, matchmaking is still a complex game.
So if you'd rather get professional guidance in making this a success, we've got our experts ready to hop on a call and co-pilot you to success. Book a 30 minute free call with our team, it's matching time!
Community Engagement Platforms: 10 Tips From our CS Team to Boost Yours
Managing an online community platform effectively is no small feat.
With memberships ranging from a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of users, community admins carry the weighty task of cultivating meaningful engagement. But have no fear - we’ve put together key insights from our customer success team on how you can rapidly boost member participation.
Whether you're an association leader looking to energize your membership base, a non-profit organization connecting donors and activists, or an enterprise building an internal collaboration hub, by putting these practices into play, you'll be on your way to building a vibrant community that keeps users coming back.
What are Community Engagement Platforms?
In our previous article on the different types of community engagement platforms, we discussed how community engagement platforms are essential for organizations looking to build trust and create an environment that encourages connections.
But what exactly are these platforms?
Community engagement platforms are online hubs that allow members to interact, share knowledge, access resources, and collaborate around shared interests or goals.
At their core, these platforms help establish stronger relationships, engage and retain members, and create a sense of community centered around your brand or organization.
Excellent community management is key to developing a truly thriving community. That's why our customer success team has put together their top tips for admins to successfully launch, manage and grow vibrant communities using engagement platforms.
Let's get started!
Here are 10 Secrets to Increase Community Engagement
1. Built Around Your Key Value Proposition
Articulating the unique value your community delivers makes it easier to align features and drive engagement. Before strategic planning and launching campaigns, clearly define your central benefit. Are you facilitating career growth? Enabling business connections? Supporting charitable causes? Running an accelerator program?
When you craft experiences laser-focused on that core value proposition, you'll bypass distracting fluff and forge meaningful member bonds. Don't overstuff with unnecessary features or content - keep it precisely aligned with your community's ‘Why’
When your platform is aligned with your ‘Why’ and a clear motivating mission is defined, you can spark lively, purposeful interactions tailored to your audience's interests and goals.
How to do it with LoftOS: LoftOS provides unparalleled flexibility to design your community platform the way you want around your specific value proposition through no-code customization.
Take advantage of the variety of pre-built modules or even build your own, create custom navigation entry points, define user roles, create stunning landing pages that fit your brand and more to craft an experience hyper-relevant to your members.
LoftOS users also have a dedicated Customer Success Manager that will also help you identify and optimize for your key value prop during o
2. Structure Meaningful Member Profiles
In-depth member profiles enable visitors to identify shared interests, spot valuable connections, and bond over mutual causes.
Encourage users to thoroughly complete profiles highlighting experiences, knowledge, passions beyond basic information. This allows members to discover things in common that serve as a basis for deeper relationships in the long run.
This drives more impactful engagement. Also, you can encourage your users to consider linking their to social media accounts to reveal fuller representations of members’ personalities and pursuits.
How to do it with LoftOS: LoftOS comes with a robust Members database where admins can create custom profile fields for users to highlight details like certifications, skills, interests and more. You can also enable options for linking registered social media accounts.
As a platform admin, you can also create member databases with multiple users types that can be further segmented based on location, expertise, and more.
With our new Onboarding feature, admins can further personalize the join experience with tailored questions and data collection flows. Define unique onboarding journeys for different user types like members, experts, organizations and more. The upfront details you gather help LoftOS intelligently match users and foster relevant connections from day one.
3. Curate Relevant Content
Content is still king. Regularly curating, creating and sharing content keeps members informed and invested. Take time to discover information they would find interesting or helpful. Identify gaps in resources related to community topics and fill them with pieces like articles, videos, etc.
You can also cater to diverse needs by providing a blend of how-to guides, tutorials, current news. Encourage users to contribute perspectives by making adding content simple. Bring in subject-matter experts to advise or produce content as well.
How to do it with LoftOS: We recommend getting started with the News module. It allows platform admins and members to easily create and share all types of updates. Our customer TexSpace takes advantage of this module, sharing curated content for the textile industry.
Additionally, you can use our Pages module to create stunning landing pages to showcase your brand story or promote a particular initiative.
4. Involve Your Colleagues
Getting your team members actively participating accelerates community growth by increasing output and showing commitment.
Encourage colleagues to share knowledge, post news, host events and drive discussions. Top level executives or community managers can conduct Q&As and subject-matter experts can lead workshops. This influx of diverse contributions makes the community richer.
Enable colleagues to integrate the platform into daily tasks by centralizing workflows. Facilitate sharing updates across departments. Recognize influential member contributions organization-wide.
How to do it with LoftOS: Involving your colleagues is easy with LoftOS's full suite of engagement tools at your disposal.
Your teammates can use the Events module for virtual meetups, product releases, webinars, you name it. Providing a specialized training program? Your team can leverage the Programs module to create courses and provide an interactive learning experience. New initiatives in the horizon? You can encourage your colleagues to use the Pages module to create specialized content hubs or landing pages.
5. Facilitate Meaningful Interactions
Move beyond superficial reactions by facilitating exchanges that let relationships go deeper. Segment members into groups aligned on specific topics, locations or demographics to enable more targeted conversations.
Encourage offshoot discussions from initial posts for more in-depth dialogue. Suggest connections between members with shared interests. Allow 1:1 messaging for more private discussions.
How to do it with LoftOS: You can use the ‘Group’ feature to create special interest groups to bring together smaller sets of members around specific subjects for closer interactions and community building.
But LoftOS goes beyond simple groups with unparalleled intelligent matchmaking capabilities.
Whether you're a business looking for superior networking or a membership organization aiming to maximize engagement, LoftOS matching system allows defining your own custom matching logic. Easily set parameters to automatically suggest ideal member pairings based on specific attributes and interests.
No need to settle for basic system matches - use LoftOS's powerful tools to hand-pick and override recommended connections as needed. Prioritize relationships strategically through custom weighing and scoring. All with secure, GDPR-compliant data controls. We take meaningful interactions seriously.
6. Onboarding Should be an Ongoing Activity
Make every member feel instantly welcomed while continuing engagement long-term. Onboarding can be presented to your new members as automated messaging that introduces key platform sections that provide an informative start.
Look for slumps in participation down the road as cues to replenish excitement. Use polls and quick surveys to address any blockers preventing optimal use. Convey that administrators are responsive and here to help members thrive.
How to do it with LoftOS: With LoftOS, your new members can get custom welcome messages that share important information and platform modules to keep in mind.
Our newest onboarding features take welcoming your new members up a notch. In our newest update, platform admins can design specific onboarding journeys, based on defined user types, that collect crucial member information that can be used by our integrated matchmaking system to facilitate deeper community engagement and networking.
Still not using LoftOS? This is another reason why we think you should try it out.
7. Host Events to Humanize Your Platforms
Virtual events add meaningful connection by putting faces to usernames. We’re talking webinars, talks, roundtables, product releases, Q&A, they transport the interpersonal elements of in-person gatherings online.
When organizing online events, you can showcase key platform personalities by featuring different hosts. Foster deeper dives on topics and bidirectional sharing not possible in ordinary posts.
How to do it with LoftOS: LoftOS comes with a robust event toolkit. Use our popular Events module to host any type of in-person, hybrid or virtual events. You can easily keep track of your attendee lists, event promotion, and more. Have members that can’t join your virtual events? With LoftOS integrated video tool, you can easily save a recording for members in different timezones to watch later.
See the event modules in action, our customer Audoora and their platform Netzwerk Hörgesundheit, organizes monthly online webinars with their LoftOS-powered platform for the hearing industry.
8. Identify and Track Data Metrics Aligned to Your Goals
Numbers are key in any decision-making process. But not all analytics carry equal importance.
The key metrics to monitor are those directly connected to your community's core value proposition. First, clearly define what success looks like for your specific use case. Is it generating investor signups? Driving product sales? Increasing event attendance?
Once you've established the right objectives, determine which data points will allow you to accurately measure performance against those goals. Analyze areas like user profiles matching desired criteria, engagement levels with particular content types, and more.
How to do it with LoftOS: LoftOS provides robust filtered dashboards and reports, allowing you to visualize the exact metrics tied to your unique priorities. Easily configure custom analytics tracking for your defined KPIs instead of sifting through irrelevant vanity metrics. With this data in hand, it is much easier for platform admins and community managers to take necessary action to craft content based on around your most popular topics.
9. Transfer Existing Tasks and Processes
First, document all existing tasks, processes and paperwork your team currently uses across various business functions. Analyze which activities and areas would benefit from being digitized and streamlined on a unified platform.
For a startup accelerator program, this could include application funnels, curriculum planning, mentor matching and investor introductions. For a large B2B network, look at member onboarding, event promotion, lead sharing and partnership marketplaces.
LoftOS provides unparalleled flexibility to craft a fully customized experience, replicating any processes or requirements.
How to do it with LoftOS: Once you have a clear picture of the operational workflows to digitize, leverage our no-code configurability to precisely recreate those tailored to your organization's unique needs.
You can build custom databases, create your own modules for specialized requirements, house content resources or promote new initiatives on Pages, host recurring events through the Events module, or use the Programs feature to create e-learning courses like our customer, StAfrica did with their Startup Community.
10. Gather User Feedback to Enhance Experiences
And last but not least, listening.
Your members' voice is invaluable for shaping an engaging community experience. Proactively gather feedback on what's working well and areas for improvement. Ask about their motivations for joining, desired types of content, and ideal activities.
Request feedback after new feature rollouts. Follow up periodically on overall satisfaction. Hearing directly from your user base allows you to consistently level up offerings based on their evolving needs.
How to do it with LoftOS: The Forms feature enables you to easily create and distribute user surveys and feedback forms. Customize forms with specific questions, then share via community posts, email or outreach campaigns to boost response rates. All submission data consolidates in one centralized database for efficient analysis.
Final Thoughts on Community Engagement Platforms
There you have it! 10 essential tips from the front lines of community cultivation. While launching an community engagement platform sets the stage, real growth happens when you facilitate consistent, meaningful human interactions.
Don't just broadcast information; foster spaces for lively dialogue, sharing stories and forming bonds. Guide members through purposeful programming, not haphazard activities. And always keep an open ear to their needs.
The good news? LoftOS equips you with all the tools and capabilities to knock these best practices out of the park. Our CS team is here to support you every step of the way as you progress from community creation to ongoing engagement mastery.
If you're not yet a LoftOS user, what are you waiting for? A vibrant branded community is just a few clicks away. Choose your favorite template and get started for free today!
7 Digital Engagement Platforms Types for Community Success You Need to Know
Building and nurturing an engaged community in today's digital world is no easy thing. Between members spread across various social platforms and channels, keeping your community connected and actively participating can be a challenge and a half!
The goal here is empowering your communities by meeting them where they already are online. That's where having the right digital engagement platforms in your toolbox makes all the difference.
That's why we put together this piece with the top 7 digital engagement platform types that can maximize your community's success.
Sit tight! You're about to discover some invaluable tools to go beyond transactions, nurture genuine connections, and build a thriving space where every member feels seen, heard, and supported. Let's unlock the secrets to a community that truly thrives, not just survives.
What are Digital Engagement Platforms?
In simple terms, digital engagement platforms are software solutions or tools designed to foster communication, build online communities, and drive participation through various digital channels. These platforms give community managers and program managers the tools to deliver engaging experiences, gather meaningful insights, and strengthen relationships across their entire member base.
From social media to surveys to virtual events, digital engagement platforms enable organizations to meet their audiences where they already spend their time online to deliver a personalize better customer experience. Those that leverage these solutions stand to benefit from increased member engagement, reduced churn, offer customer support and get valuable insight from customer data.
Digital Engagement Platforms Explored
With engagement goals varying across every organization, there is no one-size-fits-all digital solution. Instead, community builders have an expansive landscape to consider, with various platform types offering unique capabilities to boost customer interaction.
1. Social Media Management Platforms
Managing an active presence across every social network is no easy feat. Thankfully, social media management platforms give community managers a centralized dashboard to easily schedule and publish content, engage with audiences, and analyze performance data.
Why are Social Media Management Platforms important?
Instead of jumping between multiple networks, you can plan, execute and optimize your entire social strategy from a single unified platform. This allows you to deliver consistent messaging and experiences to customers across social channels.
Tools to keep an eye on:
Popular platforms like Hootsuite and Sprout Social make it easy to publish content across networks, engage followers, monitor mentions and hashtag discussions. The built-in analytics help you determine when your audience is most active, which posts resonate best, and how users interact with your brand across social platforms.
In other words, social media management platforms can help understand interests and behaviors.
Applying those insights, you can then tweak social content and engagement strategies to improve customer loyalty over time and offer a personalized customer experience.
2. Email Marketing Platforms
Yes, Email continues to drive higher engagement than most digital channels.
This means that having dedicated email marketing platforms is essential for community growth. These tools allow you to segment contacts, create targeted email campaigns, automate messages, and track critical performance metrics to nurture relationships over time.
Why are Email Marketing Platforms important?
Email marketing platforms offer user-friendly tools to design email templates, capture contacts, segment your lists based on behaviors and demographics, schedule and send campaigns, and of course, track all performance data.
Tools to keep an eye on:
Unlike general email providers, platforms like Mailchimp are purpose-built to help businesses nurture meaningful relationships with customers over longer time horizons by delivering personalized value at scale. They make complex segmentation, dynamic content, and integrated analytics accessible through drag-and-drop simplicity.
3. Webinar and Event Platforms
In-person events rapidly shifted to digital and hybrid models once remote work became popular. With video meetings, conferences, summits, workshops and more, organizations can now deliver immersive online experiences to complement in-person events and engage global audiences.
Why are Webinar and Event Platforms important?
These platforms allow you to offer informative, insightful or entertaining content to connect and engage your community through digital experiences. Whether hosting a trade fair, speaker series, product demo, skills training, or even team events, interactive webinars drive user engagement across in-person, virtual or hybrid event formats.
Tools to keep an eye on:
Especially after the pandemic, video engagement tools like Zoom have dominated the market by offering streamlined video meeting capabilities, screen sharing tools, and engagement features like polls, Q&As and breakout rooms.
As events grew popular for community building, dedicated solutions like LoftOS emerged specifically to host memorable virtual, hybrid or in-person events with ease.
Whether you want to host a single workshop, webinars, or a large conference with over 25,000 visitors like our customer E-world, our no-code tool comes equipped with networking features like integrated video conferencing and live chats, matchmaking capabilities and more to help you exceed your event goals.
4. Online Survey Tools
Asking the right questions is crucial to pretty much every thing in life. Specially when it comes to customer satisfaction.
Whether looking to improve event experiences, website usability, product features or member benefits, online surveys help you gather data directly from your audience for shaping decisions and build customer profiles better.
Why are Online Survey Tools important?
Understanding your audience is step one to boosting customer success. That's where simple yet powerful online survey tools play an invaluable role. Online survey tools provide an easy way to create questionnaires and feedback forms to gather first-party data directly from your audience.
Tools to keep an eye on:
User-friendly survey builders from vendors like SurveyMonkey, Typeform and Google Forms make it easy to create polls, questionnaires and requests for feedback that uncover member preferences, frustrations and suggestions across the entire customer journey.
In a similar vein, our very own platform LoftOS also offers the Forms module to create custome r surveys, quizzes for your community, used as part of event registrations and other data collection opportunities to provide better community experiences and collect data for improvements that deliver higher lifetime value.
5. Content Management Systems (CMS):
Content management systems (CMS) are software tools that help create, manage, modify and publish content through a user-friendly interface without needing coding expertise. These systems essentially act as a central repository for content creators and editors to collaboratively produce, edit and maintain content.
Why are CMSs important?
For community managers, CMS allows you to provide always up-to-date and branded content experiences across your digital touchpoints like websites, apps and emails. In short, a CMS is empowering, it enables the layman with no prior coding knowledge to share custom content that educates, informs and supports your audiences as well as keeping your business relevant in the digital world.
Tools to keep an eye on:
Leading CMS platforms like WordPress and Shopify make building content-rich websites intuitive through drag-and-drop site builders and SEO optimization.
Whereas community-centric CMS solutions like LoftOS combine traditional centralized content management with tools to manage user-generated community content. This consolidated approach helps community managers distribute branded assets while also stimulating organic participation through groups, news, events and more.
For example, our customer TexSpace uses LoftOS to power their innovation platform for the textile industry - enabling startups and companies to connect through profiles, discussions and news updates on the latest in materials, manufacturing, sustainability and other industry topics.
6. Customer Relationship Management system (CRM):
Customer relationship management (CRM) platforms consolidate data on entire customer profiles including contact details, interactions, preferences, and engagement metrics for a 360-degree view of your audiences.
Essentially, CRMs help store all customer data, track interactions over time, reveal insights through reporting, and inform communication personalization for deeper engagement.
Why are CRMs Important?:
There are many benefits of using a customer relationship management system (CRM). For community builders, CRM empowers personalized experiences, predictive analytics, customer journey mapping, and tailored programming based on intelligence gathered across touchpoints.
Tools to keep an eye on:
While often associated with sales teams, versatile CRM platforms like Salesforce, Pipedrive and HubSpot are invaluable assets for anyone managing customer or member relationships – whether driving conversions, understanding customer behavior or boosting community loyalty.
7. Community Engagement Platform:
Community engagement platforms provide specialized tools for building branded online hubs to engage defined groups of users through discussions, content, profiles and interactive features that stimulate organic participation.
Why are Community Engagement Platforms Important?:
These tailored solutions centralize community data and interactions for driving member engagement, tracking participation, informing personalized experiences, and strengthening relationships between organizations and their audience communities.
At the same time, you can easily monetize community engagement platforms by tapping into new revenue streams. Think of offering tiered memberships with premium content, and exclusive access to events or resources.
This approach not only enhances user engagement but also fosters a sustainable ecosystem where both users and platform admins derive mutual value, ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of the community.
Tools to keep an eye on:
Innoloft's no-code community builder LoftOS makes it really easy for anyone to launch custom community apps around any member base or use case that you monetize - from member community platform templates to incubator platform software, we have a template ready for you to launch your application 10x faster.
See it for yourself, our customer StAfrica created an online startup community using LoftOS to interactively connect startups, investors and other stakeholders - bridging the gap between Germany and Africa. With LoftOS, they’ve managed to significantly enhance community engagement. Specifically, the 'programs' feature now accounts for 60% of their platform activities, attracting more than 150 daily users.
Our all-in-one tool consolidates the must-have features for stimulating organic community growth and achieve the best customer engagement.
Why Not Take Your Community Engagement to New Heights with the Right Tool?
As we've explored, a variety of capable digital engagement platforms exist to activate multifaceted participation across channels - from discussions to surveys to events and beyond.
Choosing solutions tailored to your community strategy and goals promises more meaningful engagement and lasting connections.
But here's the thing - meaningful community engagement isn't about any quick hack or singular tactic. It's a continuous process of understanding your people, bringing value into their lives, and innovating experiences that bridge connections.
When evaluating platforms, be sure to consider factors like:
- Features and functionality
- Customizability
- Ease of use
- Scalability & Monetization
- Pricing and total cost
Of course, managing multiple vendors to cover each engagement capability can mean high costs, disjointed experiences and integration headaches.
That's where our no-code community building solution LoftOS shines as an all-in-one solution combining various must-have tools like forums, events, surveys and profiles for simplified, high-impact community engagement.
And because LoftOS remains flexible to build completely custom community platforms without coding, you retain the agility to adapt your solutions whenever business needs evolve - no development resources required!
That’s why industry leaders like Deutsche Telekom, Fraunhofer, RWTH Aachen University trust LoftOS to create dynamic communities that drive their growth and success.
So if you're looking to consolidate community management and take member experiences to the next level, why not get started with LoftOS for free today?
7 Startup Accelerator Program Manager Challenges and How to Avoid Them to Drive Innovation
A startup accelerator helps startups validate and scale their business through mentorship, resources, and access provided by a corporation. With the right strategy and management, accelerators catalyze innovation, help founders dreams' take shape and create new business opportunities.
However, running an effective accelerator program comes with unique challenges. We outline the 7 most common mistakes accelerator program managers make – and how you can avoid these pitfalls to set your startups up for success.
Startup Accelerator Opportunities and Challenges – How to Make Your Startup Program a Success!
For starters, success in a startup accelerator is all about balance.
It's finding that sweet spot where you're not just offering resources, but also truly understanding what each startup needs to grow. The real challenge? It's not just about picking the right startups, but also about how you guide them post-program to keep the momentum going.
Think of it as a two-way street – your program offers the tools and support, but it's the startups' drive and innovation that really fuel the journey. Get this right, and you're not just running a program; you're also cultivating a powerhouse of innovation.
And if done right, it can skyrocket your program's popularity. But here's the catch – miss out on key elements like clear goals or the right startup alignment, and you risk turning potential success stories into missed opportunities.
Here are 7 challenges every accelerator program manager goes through and how to avoid them.
Challenge 1: Juggling Too Many Tools Right from the Start
Managing an accelerator program depends on efficiently coordinating among stakeholders - yet most groups juggle disconnected applications rather than working from a unified hub.
Instead of seamless workflows, managers waste time piecing data from apps like Google Docs, Excel and email. This stems from rushing to capitalize on startup hype without taking the time to strategize. Unfortunately, this lack of clarity causes a ripple of issues down the line.
This fragmented tool chain creates ongoing headaches:
- Difficult ensuring strong retention and participation when partners and startups must jump between platforms
- Huge effort spent aggregating and processing data from different systems to assess program efficiency
- Impossible to get a holistic view of an individual startup's progress across customized tracks
- Various teams end up misaligned and making decisions in silos
The tool overlapping complicates even simple tasks like collecting progress reports from mentors and founders.
Switching to a unified platform to manage your accelerator program can address these issues through:
- Consolidating all core workflows into a centralized dashboard
- Automating tedious manual processes like data entry and transfers
- Building transparency and alignment across teams
- Enabling custom views of each startup based on permissions
With the right software foundation, program managers amp up connectivity while freeing up strategic bandwidth - creating value unlikely in a fragmented tool world.
Challenge 2: Reaching Beyond Standard Startup Scope
Regardless of their business model, effective accelerators build relationships across innovative companies, tapping unique technologies from around the world.
Unfortunately, most lean heavily on their immediate local network, without exploring opportunities further away from their scope. This potential tunnel vision limits diversity, with the same regional founders recycled through programs.
Relying on narrow outreach and inbound interest has additional downsides:
- Startup applicant pool becomes homogeneous, lacking truly disruptive technologies
- Limited visibility into relevant experts for advising ventures
- No way to automatically suggest matches between compatible startups
Platforms like LoftOS tackle this through customizable profile-based matchmaking - creating a searchable hub of all the players within your network.
When you create your platform, program managers can selectively tune matching algorithms, weighting key attributes like skills, requirements, funding stages to enable precision pairing. This automation frees up strategic time while sustaining engagement.
With ongoing networking opportunities, program managers can effortlessly optimize stakeholder collisions for frictionless flow of knowledge, relationships and opportunities.
Challenge 3: Setting Clear Timelines and Milestones
Acceleration depends on systematically progressing startups through structured learning and development phases to iterate at top speeds. Without clear milestones guiding this staged evolution, things easily become chaotic juggling multiple ventures.
Common Issues:
- No standardized curriculum with unambiguous milestones
- Mismatched expectations around prototype cycles between teams
- Poor coordination across functions working with the same startup
Establishing a structured curriculum while allowing customization per startup results in cooperative success. Using collaborative tools like LoftOS to centrally track progress across startups also smooths coordination.
Our accelerator software template provides a pre-configured curriculum while still offering flexibility to modularity tweak tracks based on needs.
This balance of standardization and customization keeps your startups aligned to your accelerator priorities while adapting to individual needs - the best of both worlds if you ask us.
Challenge 4: Managing Application Lifecycle
Before startups accelerate, the first hurdle is getting them into the program. We're talking streamlining admissions processes and candidate screenings to proactively get targeted applicants. This promptly improves funnel conversion.
Here are some common issues managers face
- Minimal promotion to startup hubs means low applications
- Reviewing entrepreneurs is a highly manual process
- Delayed legal negotiations risk losing quality prospects
Targeted outreach expands and enhances the applicant pool. Once identified, prompt offers avoids losing excited, qualified founders to the competition.
So how to make it better?
We suggest: Dropping the old school approach and adopting modern technology, like an accelerator management software, that can make your life easier. Automating standardized application data collection, screening and model term generation smooths intake. Incorporating tools purpose-built for the management task further eases the workload.
Speaking of making things easy… Why not get in a quick 15-min discovery call with our expert Eymen? In 15 minutes, you will get tailor-made assistance to make your startup accelerator program a success.
Challenge 5: Neglecting Thorough Customization
Accelerators trying to push startups through rigid, one-size-fits all curriculum rarely maximize outcomes. While it's true that structure drives results, tailoring tracks based on specific venture attributes and current phase amplifies your program value.
Some of the common issues faced with startup accelerator program managers
- Fixed formats built around narrow corporate priorities
- Little flexibility adapting to diverse startup needs and models
- Weak feedback channels for ongoing refinement
It's simple: adapt or fall behind. A successful accelerator flexes to fit each startup's unique journey, not the other way around. Think about covering a wide range of innovation topics coupled with custom mentorship pools based on founder backgrounds.
Challenge 6: Making Community Building a Priority
Some of the most valuable aspects of acceleration come from connections participants make with each other through shared experiences, pressures and lessons learned. Yet, since we entered into the post-pandemic world and the remote work era, accelerator program managers might feel that facilitating these productive collisions could be much harder.
Common Issues that might come to mind:
- Siloed teams heads down only on their startup
- A lack of bonding opportunities between cohorts and teams
Though Pre-COVID accelerators could facilitate casual interactions through communal workspaces, organized social events and chance encounters. Modern problems require modern solutions. These involve thoughtful hosting of virtual events, small group mentor sessions and standalone digital tools.
LoftOS provides integrated community capabilities, including:
- Advanced video tools for networking events
- Group chat functions for themed discussions and industry-specific talks
- E-learning features to run your online workshops, webinars and e-learning courses
- Secure collaboration tools for topic discussions and idea generation
- Facilitated mentorship matchmaking
You can deliver community building activities that can sustain your innovation ecosystem seamlessly, where knowledge flows freely between teams - making the whole far greater than the sum of parts.
Challenge 7: Keeping Momentum Post-Program
Accelerator program managers often struggle with providing Post-Program Support and Networking opportunities for their students. The acceleration journey doesn’t end at graduation - sustaining value creation depends on maintaining engagement.
This involves orchestrating ongoing support and networking opportunities.
Common Issues:
- Severing relationships once program finishes
- Minimal coordination handling multiple alumni
- Lack of clarity around follow-on funding, support
We suggest
- Building a strong alumni network for continued connections
- Offer periodic consultation, refresher sessions and check-ins
- Develop an online resource library with toolkits and videos
- Voice-of-customer research informing future curriculum
By sustaining transparent win-win partnerships, corporations and startups build trust and lay runways for longer-term success.
Need Help Running Your Accelerator Program?
As we've covered, effectively managing an accelerator program is enormously complex - but the payoff makes it well worth the effort.
Yet most startup accelerators managers may still be relying on spreadsheets and manual workflows, too ad hoc to handle the scope. Why keep wasting resources?
Purpose-built no-code solutions like LoftOS remove these bottlenecks through automation, organization and centralization while still maintaining the high-touch customization entrepreneurs expect.
Just ask MansaStars, who leverages LoftOS to run their platform connecting investors, corporates and founders across Africa to scale business in Germany and beyond. With customizable application forms, investor matchmaking tools and founder community capabilities, they support the African tech startup ecosystem.
Without hiring developers, you can streamline your application funnels, curate a selection of E-learning courses for different cohorts, offer automated expert matchmaking, plus a ton of tools to build your startup community for maximum impact.
Get started for free with our Accelerator template, and go from idea to execution in days - not months - all for a fraction of traditional build costs.
Technology Transfer Digitalization: Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities in Technology Transfer
Researchers log long hours in the lab seeking discoveries that push boundaries. Technology transfer professionals understand that’s only the first leg in innovation’s journey - those eureka moments must make it beyond theoretical papers to actually make a positive impact in daily life.
However, traditional technology transfer practices face systemic barriers like lengthy negotiations, valuation complexities, gaps in awareness between parties, and reproducibility issues that can severely hamper an innovation's path to commercial viability. Technology transfer digitalization through modernized platforms, digitized workflows, and enhanced transparency provides promising mechanisms to bolster collaborative efficiency.
In this article, we will dive into the common challenges faced by tech transfer initiatives and the opportunities that lie ahead with no-code platforms that can accelerate technology transfer digitalization.
What is Tech Transfer, and When Does it Take Place?
Technology transfer is ultimately about turning amazing ideas into meaningful solutions. As the father of the Post-It, Geoffrey Nicholson once said,
Research transforms money into knowledge ... technology transfer transforms knowledge into money.
But what exactly is this process, and when does it occur?
Simply put, technology transfer refers to conveying discoveries from the research lab into the commercial sector for real-world application.
This can encompass knowledge transfer across a wide spectrum - from licensing agreements that help industry integrate new manufacturing techniques, to the launch of scrappy startups ready to take scientific advancements into healthcare systems, electric grids, and beyond.
Effective technology transfer serves as the critical bridge spanning academic insight and public good. It typically kicks into gear once early funding validates an invention's viability beyond the lab. This inflection point relies on seamless collaboration between universities, industry partners, policymakers, and entrepreneurs.
When all actors work in harmony, tech transfer accelerates, ushering discoveries toward benefiting society sooner rather than later. But misalignment can bring this engine of impact to a grinding halt.
What is Digitalization in Technology Transfer?
Digitalization means embracing cutting-edge innovation to upgrade analog processes. And technology transfer is ripe for a digital overhaul.
Why? Well… as you know, human bandwidth gets easily maxed out managing the intricate dance between academia, industry, government, and entrepreneurial interests.
On top of that, red tape tangles progress even with the best intentions on all sides. Critical data hides in disparate silos, rather than linking up viable solutions with promising problems.
Digitizing technology transfer interactions using collaborative software systems equips technology transfer professionals with a toolkit for keeping plates spinning and maximizing impact, and offers multidimensional advantages such as:
- Increased speed: to reach licensing agreements and other partnerships.
- Data analytics software: that scans university patent portfolios in seconds, then spotlights the most commercially relevant IP based on market potential.
- Systematic IP management through centralized intellectual property data repositories.
- Machine learning-enhanced industry-academic matchmaking tools, streamlining partnership opportunities.
- Repeated technology commercialization success through traceability and research collaboration.
- Flexible and customizable digital research ecosystems where innovators and funders converge around common objectives
Think of it like upgrading from a hand-cranked engine to an electric motor. While digitalization requires organizational change management and updated data governance habits, the long-term efficiency gains for both operations and stakeholder coordination justify these investments.
Major Pain Points in Traditional Technology Transfer
Technology transfer encounters several consistent challenges rooted in manual approaches optimized for a print-based world rather than adapting to more modern, real-time data exchanges.
IP Ownership Negotiations
Figuring out who owns what intellectual property rights can really drag out licensing deals. When research has input from different groups – like companies, universities, government grants – it gets messy sorting out who contributed what. That turns negotiations into, you guessed it right, big unnecessary headaches.
Digital IP management platforms can untangle that web by logging all research inputs and money flows. Having clear records makes divvying up ownership way cleaner.
Technology Valuation Complications
Now this is another interesting complication, early stage inventions lack good value comparisons. So buyers and sellers have to haggle over royalty rates and fair prices. Adding context helps ease those conversations.
Plugging evaluation criteria like patent quality, market demand, competing products, and development status into business intelligence dashboards creates technology appraisals everyone buys into.
Information Gaps Between Stakeholders
Product managers scouting for new opportunities rarely interface directly with researchers generating promising technologies. This knowledge scatter between creation and application allows great ideas to lie dormant. Online innovation listing exchanges create needed clarity.
How Digitalization Can Strengthen Technology Transfer?
Transitioning from fragmented, old school technology transfer methods to modern, more unified enterprise digital hubs streamlines handshake-to-handoff. We’ve talked about the pain points of traditional tech transfer, now let’s dive into the core benefits of digitalization.
Streamlining IP Management
Central patent databases, streamlined licensing platforms, and innovation catalogs save teams major headaches. Instead of scattered files, everything’s in one portal: reporting, partner search, listings from all institutes and researches, matchmaking... Transparency from start to finish.
Enhancing Stakeholder Collaboration
Online ecosystems let all players engage early - universities, investors, government funders, industry developers, you name it. Technology transfer platforms, act like a collaborative software that bridge silos so ideas and tech seamlessly move from campus to market.
Automating Administrative Processes
Digital transformation zaps the already sluggish processes plaguing Europe. A technology transfer software can provide you with smart templates, Kanban boards, and databases that eliminate paperwork jams. Automation handles the grunt work, so you can free up brainpower and drive innovation farther and faster.
Providing Data Insights
Performance dashboards guide smarter decisions using hard data. Adoption levels, downstream impact metrics, and commercialization analyses help creators continuously improve ideas into solutions that change the world. At the end of the day, objective insight beats guessing games.
… And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
What Could Go Wrong? Challenges in Digitalization of Technology Transfer
So is everything as good as it sounds?
With any ambitious journey into uncharted territory, roadblocks pop up and there will be some natural digital resistance. And specially when it comes to digitalizing processes as intricate as technology transfer promises its share of potholes that could derail progress if not accounted for.
But transformation rarely follows a straight line - by anticipating common pitfalls, we can pivot approaches without stalling momentum. Let’s look into them:
More Complexity, More Confusion?
Upgrading tools can feel like jumping levels in a video game - the speed and complexity becomes dizzying. The big fear is digital complicating the delicate balancing act between academia, corporates, investors, and policymakers in tech transfer.
The reality? When used carefully, digital doesn't have to chaos things further. The right tools simplify navigation instead of hiding visibility - like how Siri enhances maps rather than replacing them outright.
The reality is, digitization takes monotonous tasks off peoples' plates so they can focus on big picture priorities and partnerships. More strategic bandwidth unlocks better innovation.
Are My Secrets Safe?
Centralizing datasets, especially those detailing sensitive IP discoveries or licensing terms, rightfully raises security questions. Without robust encryption and permission protocols, confidentiality stands vulnerable.
Thankfully, no-code technology transfer solutions like LoftOS exist with seamless, customized access controls across the platforms. This enables GDPR-compliant data protections without heavy lifting. The technical safeguarding specifics handle themselves, so leaders can focus on driving adoption.
The Path Toward Accelerating Tech Transfer
Despite potential growing pains, technology transfer’s digital upgrade promises more rewards than risks. Modern technology transfer platforms amplify partnerships, technology entrepreneurship, accelerate idea pipelines, and resolve former friction points in intellectual property management.
Research discoveries now get evaluated at light speed with centralized patent databases, rather than gathering dust undiscovered. Profile-based recommendation engines — you know, much like the tech behind popular dating apps — now do the same for matchmaking innovators with ideal funding partners across sectors.
That’s why forward-thinking institutions, like TU Darmstadt and Fraunhofer IEM choose a comprehensive platforms like LoftOS purpose-built to:
- Centralize tech transfer management
- Turn networks into vibrant communities
- Automatically match innovations with market needs
- Increase IP visibility and Story IP offers hassle-free
- Facilitate organizational collaboration
- Support spin-offs with co-founder identification
So why wait? Dive in and experience the difference LoftOS can make for you. Get started for free with our Technology Transfer Platform and commercialize your innovation today!
5 Technology Transfer Best Practice Tips to Accelerate Innovation
Turning your groundbreaking research into real-world miracles. It's not an easy process, right?
You've got these incredible innovations practically bursting at the seams to change the world as we know it, but they're stuck in the lab. Why? Because the tech transfer process at most universities and research centers is like trying to run a marathon with your feet tied.
Outdated systems, endless red tape, and workflows that make snails look speedy.
The mountains of paperwork, tangled licensing negotiations, and clunky data tracking systems can leave you feeling drained. Not to mention the frustration that arises when a promising prototype just sits unused because industry connections haven’t materialized.
Yet, here's the twist: these challenges aren't your roadblocks; they're your stepping stones. By adopting these technology transfer best practices tips we put together and armed with the latest no-code tech, you can turn the tech transfer slog into a sprint and scale-up in no time.
What Makes Technology Transfer So Slow?
Ever wonder why tech transfer feels like a snail race? It's not just you.
The process can be bogged down by a lack of standardized approaches, unclear communication, and management hiccups. It's like trying to cook a complex meal, but everyone in the kitchen speaks a different language and the recipe keeps changing.
That's tech transfer for you. It's about transferring not just information, but expertise, processes, and assets – and doing it efficiently is a real art form.
Which takes us to our next question.
Why Are Tech Transfers Difficult?
No doubt, tech transfers can feel like navigating a labyrinth. To illustrate this a bit, a 2020 McKinsey & Co study on tech transfer during the Covid-19 crisis highlighted a startling fact: on average, tech transfers take an average 18 to over 30 months to reach the commercialization stage. And here's a twist – when you're passing the torch between different companies, it's even trickier. Transfers to external parties can take an extra 5.8 months.
Adding to this complexity are management-related delays.
These often arise from challenges in project management, such as inadequate planning, unstructured data, reliance on paper-based systems, and limited collaboration. Additionally, communication issues play a significant role. With various parties involved, clear and effective communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings and coordination problems.
And get this – it's not just about time. The price tag for a typical tech transfer in pharma and biotech? It can hit a staggering $5 million.
So can we transform tech transfer and make it more efficient?
1. Build Relationships with Industry Partners
First and foremost, when we talk about making tech transfer more efficient, we have to open up by saying that building a strong relationship with the companies can't be underestimated. These partnerships will lead to transforming your tech transfer processes and make them more efficient.
From developing more flexible patent licensing to accessing additional research funding to scale up your research, there are many reasons why companies and universities should develop a closer collaboration.
Let's put it this way, when close collaborations with outside institutions are formed, not only does freedom of communication and sharing of resources can be accelerated, but also your skills and perspectives can be widened to translate your research into effective real-world solutions.
Also, did we mention that partnerships defined this way will greatly help make breakthrough technologies commercialized faster and cheaper?
2. Develop a Clear IP Policy
So why does a clear IP policy matter?
Well... Let's put it this way: Without clear IP policies, ambiguity reigns.
A transparent intellectual property policy serves as the cornerstone guiding effective technology transfer. By clearly codifying IP ownership, protection procedures, and licensing approaches, institutions create certainty around commercialization avenues and allow for the sharing of information. This also speeds up progress from the lab to real-world impact, ensuring that ideas and innovations are protected in the best way possible while also promoting collaboration.
Without a clear IP policy, researchers may question their permission to patent discoveries or collaborate with corporate partners. External stakeholders might face confusion navigating academic bureaucracies for securing licensed innovations, slowing time-to-market.
In short, a detailed IP policy eliminates guesswork by defining ownership and clarifying licensing priorities.
Once IP guidelines firmly take shape, tech transfer institutes must actively curate their patent and licensing portfolios as prioritized assets that set technology transfer in motion. By employing tech transfer platforms, like LoftOS, you can manage your IP portfolios through centralized dashboards, list transfer offers from all institutes and researchers and display opportunities to industry partners to enhance collaboration.
3. Simplify the Licensing Process
Are you still lost in licensing limbo? Maybe it's time to cut through the red tape.
Navigating the licensing labyrinth often feels like wandering aimlessly while your innovation waits impatiently. Specially, with the wide variety of licensing agreements available to transfer knowledge from lab to market.
But what if you could highlight simpler pathways to partnerships? Let's explore a few ways you can make it easier for everyone involved to get down to business:
Standardize Agreements: Have a ready-made template term sheets that align expectations upfront, accelerating review cycles from months to days by preventing repetition of known deal elements.
Bundle Up with Packaged Licenses: Curate complementary patents into targeted portfolios solving industry problems; the convenience encourages licensing en masse rather than one-off.
Play It Smart with Non-Exclusive Licenses: With Non-exclusive licenses, you can increase flexibility and regional focus to expand entrepreneurial runways, delivering more deals without monopolistic strings that stifle downstream progress.
By aligning systems around responsibility, transparency and speed, you transform from reactive administrators to proactive superheroes in the quest to move life-changing technologies off of paper and into the real world where they belong.
4. Invest in Digital Infrastructure
At this point in time, investing in digital infrastructure should be a given. Here are 4 reasons why we think investing in digital infrastructure is the gateway to a more efficient, more collaborative, and more successful tech transfer ecosystem for your organization.
It facilitates collaboration and sharing of research. Having robust digital tools and infrastructure like shared drives, project management platforms, video conferencing etc. makes it much easier for researchers across different labs, departments or institutions to collaborate. This cross-pollination speeds up innovation.
It supports virtual technology transfer. With more digital capabilities, tech transfer offices can host things virtually like showcases for industry partners to see available technologies, pitch events for startups and entrepreneurs to present licensing opportunities, and enable remote due diligence. This expands opportunities despite geographic limitations.
It assists with large data processing. So many areas of innovation today involve analyzing or translating large datasets. Having access to cloud computing capabilities, AI tools and high-powered computing is crucial for handling modern data-intensive research areas like genomics, self-driving cars etc.
It enables better IP protection. We can't stress this one enough! By utilizing secure collaboration portals and robust data tracking, institutions can better identify, protect and document IP created by their researchers. This also supports tech transfer activities later on.
As you can see, technology and knowledge transfer organizations can easily centralize their operations to improve communication and collaboration by going digital. This investment not only accelerates the transfer of innovative technologies but also positions institutions, like yours, as leaders in the digital age.
Let's talk about how this process looks and how it can help you team up with partners who are on the same page as you.
5. Transitioning Research into a Marketplace with LoftOS
So, once you've figured out what you want to achieve and what you need to get there, the next step is to network. We're talking about increasing your visibility with organizations that share your vision, values, and interests, and who bring skills, resources, or technologies that complement yours.
But where to look for these partners?
There are a bunch of places you can look to find these potential partners. You can try checking out online databases, tapping into networks, attending events, asking for referrals, or even keeping an eye on relevant publications. But since we're dealing with efficiency here, why not jumpstart collaborations on one centralized platform, purposely-built to catalyze innovation ecosystems?
Our no-code platform LoftOS centralizes tech transfer in an all-in-one solution so you can:
- Store both IP offers and your network contacts without hassle
- Increase the visibility of your IP portfolios
- Showcase innovations to ideal partners with ease
- Support spin-offs with co-founder matching
Finally, a digital hub designed by innovation pros for innovation pros. You can now embrace the future with confidence with LoftOS, just like the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University did with their platform TexSpace.
By leveraging LoftOS you increase visibility, nurture relationships with stakeholders, and promote strategic growth in research commercialization 10x faster. The future is no-code. Get started for free and try our technology transfer platform.
Bridging the IT Skills Gap: How No-Code Development Can Accelerate Digitalization in Germany
As today's digital landscape moves faster than ever, many businesses and organizations find themselves grappling with a shortage of skilled IT specialists, and Germany is no exception.
This ongoing shortage is a major hurdle for sectors that heavily depend on IT and digital transitions, and also affects the overall region's competitiveness.
But guess what? This also uncovers a golden opportunity for innovative technologies, such as no-code, to step up and fill that gap.
In this article, we will explore the current state of digitalization, the causes of innovation stagnation and how no-code development platforms like LoftOS can speed up digital transformation in Germany.
The State of Digitalization in Germany
Digital transformation is no longer an option for businesses; it is a necessity.
It is the driving force behind innovation, competitiveness, and growth in all sectors. It's no surprise that the shortage of IT specialists in Germany is hindering this crucial progress.
To put everything into context, let's talk data.
The Current Figures on IT Skills Shortage in Germany
According to a 2023 report by Bitkom, Germany lacks 137,000 IT specialists. The shortage of skilled workers, which had been warned about for a long time in advance, has now caught up with us after a long time of looking the other way.
...and this just reveals the true extent of the IT skills gap in Europe. As of now, we have only scratched the surface of the actual deficit, but as you can tell, the data paints a grim picture.
Yes, it's as serious as it sounds
This shortage of IT specialists has a direct impact on the competitiveness of businesses in Germany. With the inability to leverage digital technologies fully, these businesses face significant challenges in maintaining their competitiveness in the global market.
But how does this number translate to financial loses?
Labor Shortages Costs Companies a Lot of Money - €73,000 to be Exact
Yes, you heard it right.
According to a 2022 'cost of vacancy' analysis by StepStone group, an unfilled job role can set your company back by a whopping €29,000 euros on average.
And brace yourself for this one - for companies with over 250 employees, this figure shoots up to more than €73,000 euros! Now, isn't that something to think about?
Yet, there's more to the story. — the demand for IT talent is exploding even faster.
Germany's tech adoption and digitalization is projected for more growth, at CAGR of 4.12% between 2022 and 2027, specially among SMEs. This means, nearly every industry is racing to digitize operations and business models.
As a result, demand for developers, and other IT experts, is skyrocketing. And Germany simply doesn't have the talent pipeline to keep up.
Germany's Digital Future Throttled by Government Inaction
According to a recent study by Bitkom, only 11% of the 334 digital projects planned by the current government, have actually been implemented so far. Two-thirds are still in progress. Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst labelled the glacial pace of progress the “brake block for digital Germany,” even calling the country a “failed state” when it comes to digitizing government administration.
During the pandemic, many praised Germany for its digital progress. But the numbers tell a different story. Germany's digitization index inched up just slightly, from 107.9 in 2021 to 108.9 in 2022.
For all the talk of digital acceleration spurred by COVID-19, the gains seem marginal at best.
The IT Skills Gap Reveals an Even More Alarming Trend
According to a study by Kompetenzzentrum Fachkräftesicherung (KOFA), a competence center for securing skilled labor, an average of 33,932 open IT positions requiring a university degree went unfilled last year. That's a 76.6% increase compared to the previous year. For skilled IT workers with vocational degrees, open positions jumped 77.3% to 2,213.
Bitkom President, Dr. Ralf Wintergerst, further comments on the downward trend of students enrolled in Germany.
There are still too few young people and, above all, too few women studying computer science. And the drop-out rate is consistently over 50 percent, which is far too high. We will not be able to meet the increasing demand for IT specialists from the universities.
So not only is government digitization slow, but Germany lacks the tech talent to pick up speed. Between policy paralysis and the widening skills gap, Germany seems destined to keep falling behind global digital leaders.
What is The Reason for The Slow Development?
Good question!
If we dig a little deeper, the answer is manifold.
First, the public sector is plagued by limited funding and bureaucratic complexities that stifle innovation. It’s also not too hard to find outdated tech and sluggish processes still in place, as highlighted in an article published by Open Access Government.
Compounding this is Europe's private sector and its surprisingly low cloud adoption. The AWS Digital Decade report shows only 26% of European companies leveraging cloud computing, missing out on a key driver of digital efficiency and growth.
And speaking of skills, the report shows the numbers are worryingly slow.
In five years, basic digital skills have increased by just 2.3 percentage points, a stark contrast to the rapid technological advancements happening globally.
This is a concerning gap, especially considering the EU's ambitious target of 80% of its population attaining basic digital skills by 2030.
EU Commissioner for Education Mariya Gabriel said
We are not making fast enough progress and if we want to attain the goals that we set ourselves we need to accelerate and be more audacious.
The Shortcomings of IT Projects in Europe
Beyond Europe’s political and economic framework, IT departments' months-long project timelines make digital innovation crawl at a snail's pace.
According to a software development report by Goodfirms, 61.60% of the development companies established a common average developing time period of 4–6 months.
A typical software development lifecycle goes something like this: It all starts with lots of talks, planning meetings, implementation, and testing before it’s even deployed. Even if internal resources get allocated, progress is slow. Often exceeding initial budget by at least 75%, according to a report by McKinsey & Company.
Basically, 6 months in, and you're still waiting on that software.
In that same report, it is noted that only one in 200 IT projects delivers the intended benefits on time and within budget. And public-sector projects? They're even trickier, often blowing the budget nearly 3x more than private ones.
The result? Disappointing digital tools, costly new projects, and (even) chronic frustration.
The Solution? Make App Building as Easy as PowerPoint
That's our vision behind the no-code revolution. No-code development platforms, like LoftOS, allow anyone to create complex front and backend processes, web apps and systems with simple drag-and-drop interfaces, no coding required.
Much like how we taught employees to use Excel and PowerPoint in the early 2000s, we believe it's time to empower everyone to build their own solutions. No more complicated IT concepts — just create right away. And if mistakes happen, they're easy to fix, no harm done.
With no-code, IT development cycles shrink from 6 to 12 months to just hours or days. Digital innovation at the speed of thought.
So let's dive in a little deeper on no-code, shall we?
The Role of No-Code in Bridging the IT Skills Gap
With demand for digital solutions massively outstripping developer capacity in Germany, it's clear traditional coding approaches won't allow organizations to keep pace. To be fair this phenomenon is not exclusive to Germany, for the past couple of years, enterprises across different EU member states have been struggling with filling ICT vacancies.
There simply aren't enough skilled IT professionals to meet the needs.
This is where no-code platforms have the potential to completely transform the equation. By abstracting away the complexity of programming languages, no-code opens up app and solution building to non-technical employees across businesses.
Citizen Developers: The New IT Workforce
These newly empowered non-coders are being referred to as "citizen developers." Much like "citizen journalists" or "citizen scientists," it means organization staff from non-IT roles stepping up to help meet digital needs.
With an intuitive user-friendly interface based on visual programming concepts and pre-built building block and drag-and-drop interfaces, citizen developers can assemble workflows, bots, and create any type of web application they can think of 10x faster.
Pretty cool, right?
As you can imagine, the rise of capable citizen developers effectively brings more "developers" into the talent pool. Expanding the workforce in this way is how no-code can help close the growing IT skills gap we spoke before.
And if you’ve heard about the no-code hype but still not fully sure what it can do, let’s learn a bit about the history of no-code and see how far we’ve come from the first ideas of no-code development.
A Brief History of No-Code
Believe it or not, no-code platforms have actually been around since the 1980s. But early tools were limited to simple database builders and applications through simple interfaces vs traditional coding.
Fast-forward to the early 2000s, as the internet boom took off. Platforms like WordPress and others gained steam by making it easier for anyone to publish content or build simple static websites without needing to code. However, they lacked the capability to power more complex web applications.
In recent years, the main driver behind no-code growth has been enabling organizations to unlock efficiency gains and growth through digitalization. Different solutions have risen up to meet those needs by allowing teams to automate workflows, design full professional websites, and build more intricate functions without relying on developers.
And then the pandemic hit, accelerating digital adoption across industries. The rapid shift to remote work amplified the demand for no-code tools that empower non-technical employees to meet digital transformation needs.
Forward-thinking companies are realizing the vast potential of equipping their workforces with visual development platforms that abstract away the complexity of code. Unlike the static site builders of the early 2000s, these new no-code solutions allow non-technical employees to build complex, data-driven web applications on the front and back end.
As a result, no-code and low-code are entering a hypergrowth phase. The market is projected to swell to over $52 billion by just 2024!
So while no-code may seem like an overnight sensation, it's actually the realization of a 30-year evolution, with the most dramatic growth still ahead.
Digital Transformation in Germany is a Joint Effort
There's no doubt - the IT skills shortage poses an enormous challenge as Germany races to digitize across sectors. But it also represents an opportunity to rethink old models.
By embracing new solutions like no-code, companies can accelerate development and reduce pressure on overburdened IT teams. And by unleashing "citizen developers", they can expand their talent pool rather than competing for scarce coding experts.
But organizations can't drive this digital change alone. When companies, governments, and educational institutions work together, we can ensure that Germany remains competitive on the digital world stage.
Take the First Step with LoftOS's No-Code Platform
As you can see, embracing no-code solutions represents a major opportunity for companies and institutions across Germany to close the widening IT skills gap and accelerate digitalization.
With a no-code platform like LoftOS, anyone can bring solutions to life in hours instead of months.
Take a look at our expanding library of templates to jumpstart any projects you envision such as like digital marketplaces, online B2B communities, internal tools and more.
Ready to lead Germany's digital revolution? Cut development time from months to minutes and launch your own ideas with LoftOS today. The future of digital innovation has never been more accessible
2023 Wrapped: The Year of Innoloft's No-Code Vision and Making App Building Easy for Everybody
As the holiday season nears and 2023 draws to a close, it's the perfect time to raise a glass to the incredible year it's been for Innoloft. Though we've always dared to dream big, even we couldn't have predicted just how far we'd come in these short twelve months.
From major funding wins and exciting new talent joining our squad, to groundbreaking product launches and visionary events that sparked fresh innovation, it's been a year of full steam ahead.
As noted by our CEO Sven:
In 2023, the team was fueled by audacious dreams of how far we could push the boundaries of our no-code vision. More than milestones met or capital raised, what made this year magical were those ripple effects from empowering businesses, universities, agencies and founders to turn digital visions into reality at top speed. Can't wait to continue this in 2024 and beyond!
Now, before we turn our sights to the bright horizons ahead in 2024, we wanted to toast all that we’ve achieved together in 2023. A glimpse behind the curtain of the great moments that paved the way for Innoloft and LoftOS.
So come along in as we unwind and relive some of Innoloft's highlights and happiest memories from the last 365 days.
Our €1 Million Funding: Celebrating Innoloft's Milestone
Securing €1 million in seed funding marked a pivotal moment for Innoloft this year. It was a validation of both the visionary solutions we pioneer through LoftOS, and the trust in our potential to reshape no-code application development.
As Sven told on his Startup Valley feature, this funding round comes at a critical junction as demand for digitalization far outstrips the talent to deliver it. Shortening development cycles from months to minutes is the only way to close this gap. LoftOS makes it possible, and our seed round is a great proof of this.
LoftOS came into existence to tackle one of the biggest challenges of our time, as covered by Deutsche Startups, and with this funding we'll focus resources on elevating LoftOS into an even more adaptive no-code platform allowing anyone to build enterprise-grade applications...without writing a single line of code.
The funding accelerates these ambitions to democratize development. It lets us take further risks on product innovation and expansion, while also nurturing Europe's next generation of innovation.
From Lisbon to Berlin: Networking and Sharing our No-Code Vision Beyond Borders
We may be busy pioneering tools to accelerate digital transformation behind the scenes. But we also were present on some huge stages in 2023!
Earlier this year, we had an awesome meet-and-greet stand at the Pirate Summit in Cologne. Attendees were excited to chat first-hand with our team and discover how LoftOS empowers their digital visions too.
Before the end of the summer, we received a special invite to the prestigious, closed-door B2B SaaS Neworking ARRtist Summit in Berlin. Our founders relished rubbing shoulders with some of Europe’s most successful startup founders and VC investors during the exclusive two-day event. In between the thought-provoking panels and workshops, there were lots of great networking opportunities.
A highlight was showing up in force to the legendary Web Summit in Lisbon - the world’s largest, most exciting tech conference in the world. Our CEO Sven brought LoftOS into the international spotlight when he delivered a pitch on-stage at their exclusive early-stage startup competition PITCH.
As you can see, we didn’t just focus on developing new features, our team enjoyed sharing the LoftOS vision at major global gatherings of forward-thinking founders and investors. We can’t wait what 2024 holds for us!
Welcoming New Customers Across all Sectors
We were thrilled to welcome so many disruptive new innovators into the LoftOS community across different fields in 2023.
Powerhouse giant T-Systems chose us to build an internal web app to crowdsource groundbreaking ideas from employees. Our no-code platform empowered them to launch their frictionless innovation management system 10x faster than traditional dev would allow.
The Innovationsagentur Rheinland-Pfalz also tapped LoftOS as their backbone to create a digital hub accelerating tech advancements and research collaboration in the region. Their mission to future-proof regional industries aligned perfectly with our goal to make building web platforms accessible for organizations of all sizes.
We were similarly excited to help established telecom provider Peoplefone launch “Peoplefone Business Class” - an online B2B marketplace fostering partnerships between IT manufacturers. No-code made realizing their vision quicker and more affordable compared to outsourced dev shops.
And these are just a few of the many outstanding enterprises that became Innoloft customers this year! Our incredibly versatile platform continues appealing to innovation teams across functions, verticals and global regions. Stay tuned in 2024 as we onboard even more!
And we’ve enjoyed sharing in-depth customer success stories like Audoora, innomatch and StAfrica's on our blog too! Seeing the real-world impact from these inspiring teams continues motivating us in our mission.
Launching the Innoloft Blog
We also debuted the official Innoloft Blog this year as a go-to resource center for everything from no-code and B2B networking resources, to how our LoftOS can help our customer with research transfer, creating marketplaces and more.
The goal is to provide you with practical information and guides that make your no-code journey smoother. For instance, our top post “Launch Faster: The Complete Guide to Configuring Your New LoftOS Platform ” serves as a friendly onboarding roadmap for new users.
We also showcase the wider innovation movement through inspirational spotlights. Our piece “Government Digitalization Pioneers: Top 6 GovTech Experts in Germany You Need to Know!” offers rare insight into these visionaries pioneering public-sector transformation .
And we also explored why businesses are no-code solutions, like in “No Code vs Code Debate: 6 Key Reasons Businesses Prefer No-Code Development Platforms.” The blog is our way of paying forward all that we’ve learned to help uplift aspiring builders in our community!
Make sure to keep an eye out for new articles next year.
Unveiling Next-Level Personalization and Revenue Streams for Your Platform
Of course, none of this growth would have been possible without continuing to rapidly evolve LoftOS into an incredibly versatile no-code platform. We pushed hard this year to unlock new functionality that empowers everyone to bring virtually any web solution imaginable to life!
For instance, our integrated Pages website builder lets users create sleek, professional landing pages and full websites without coding. Since launching Pages in July and enhancing it with more templates and multimedia options, it’s fast become many users’ favorite LoftOS feature.
We also introduced Templates - our curated selection of preconfigured platforms for popular use cases like building innovation networks, marketplaces or B2B online communities. These templates let users hit the ground running. LoftOS does the heavy lifting so you can focus on customizing to your needs instead of starting from a blank canvas.
Another game-changing addition to LoftOS was the long-awaited, Paid Packages, enabling users to create customized tiered membership plans and finally be able to monetize their platforms. And now our recent Stripe integration will make your ride even smoother by taking the hassle out of managing your payments too.
And on the customization front, our enhanced module framework makes it even easier to adapt LoftOS to your specific needs for a truly personalized platform.
LoftOS Summit Sparks Fresh Innovation
This vibrant two-day gathering in Aachen brought together customers, partners and innovators from across Germany and abroad.
The action-packed agenda included hands-on workshops to skill up on topics like optimized UX and strategic community growth tactics. Attendees also had lively discussion panels on the future of no-code and monetization models.
The summit sparked so much inspiration that we even compiled the top 5 B2B community building lessons from the summit to continue empowering the community. And for anyone who couldn’t make it, you can check out highlights from the summit in this short recap video!
Recharging at Team Week 2023
Right after the summit, we took a much-needed breather from heads-down building to come together for our annual Team Week. This was a chance for our globally distributed team to connect, meet and recharge in person!
Our offline adventure brought our remote teammates together to meet IRL for the first time. All while trekking the beautiful Belgian landscapes and kayaking local rivers.
But it wasn’t all play - we also put our heads together for an epic hackathon session. We surfaced some fresh ideas to understand current challenges and make LoftOS even more intuitive and user-friendly for our community!
If you too want to meet the humans behind LoftOS, check out the Team Week highlights!
Growing Stronger: Welcoming New Talents to the Innoloft Team
Of course, none of these ambitious plans for the future would be possible without a passionate, ever-expanding team behind LoftOS. That’s why we were thrilled to welcome a new all-star talent across many teams in 2023!
Our dev squad scaled up with additions like front-end engineer Shivam and back-end engineer Danylo. Marketing gained creative content writer Boris. Cristina joined us as our new Lead Development Representative.
The customer success team enlisted experts like Julia, Zainab as Customer Success Manager. Linda also came on board as our HR & Finance Manager, with Eymen joining as our Sales Development Representative.
We also formed an all-star UX design team consisting of Sofia who joined us as a UX intern, along with Kamran and Elnaz coming on board as our experienced UX designers.
Our diverse team is what makes the Innoloft experience shine!
As Julia said after joining as our Customer Success Manager:
I enjoy my time at Innoloft because of the collaborative international team and our customers, who embody the lively spirit that defines the atmosphere at Innoloft. The team always strives to support one another, creating a positive and dynamic work environment.
Having the brightest minds on board across every team means we’re set to achieve even bigger innovations. Our rocket is fuelled and cleared for liftoff into 2024!
What Does 2024 Hold for Innoloft?
While the coming year promises even more ambition, for now let's soak in all we've built together so far. From our vantage point today, the view looks brighter than ever.
We can’t wait to keep you looped in on projects brewing for 2024 like enhanced LoftOS Database customization, intelligent matching algorithms and even our ambitious “Speech-to-application” AI project.
But for now we want to say, thank you! We wouldn’t be here without your unwavering support.
Because while we may be working hard behind the scenes, this journey isn’t one we’ve ventured alone. Every customer, partner, and curious citizen developer who joined us at the ground level made this wild ride possible.
If you want to hear more about all the latest updates in this exciting new chapter, head over to our blog and be sure to subscribe to our "Innoloft Insider" newsletter! We'll deliver all our newest feature drops, events, learning resources and webdev tips right to your inbox.
Here's to crossing more milestones off our roadmap in 2024 with our incredible community by our side! Now who's ready to build the future with us?
How 5 Customers Used our Webpage Builder Pages to Create a Website Without Coding
Ever felt like creating a website can seem like an impossible feat if you don't know how to code? Between learning complex programming languages, configuring servers, and tweaking endless lines of code - it's enough to make your head spin!
But what if I told you there's another way.
A way to design beautiful, functional websites with the simplicity of dragging and dropping blocks? Well, let us introduce you to the magical world of no-code website builders!
Yes, building your dream website doesn't have to be a journey through a code-infested jungle! This is where ideas take flight without the need for tech wings, where 'design', 'web', and 'free' are not just words, but powerful tools at your fingertips.
Intrigued? I don't blame you! Now, let's shift gears and explore something tangible.
In this article, we're spotlighting 5 of our customers who've creatively used LoftOS's Pages. These aren't just stories about building websites without code; they're real-life examples of how our platform brings diverse visions to life.
But before we get into that, let's explore some of the core benefits of using a no-code website builder.
Can I Create a Website Without Coding?
The short answer is yes!
If the idea of tackling web design seems daunting because you lack coding skills, fret not! No-code website builders make it super easy, enabling anyone to create custom web pages.
Unlike traditional web development which requires knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript and more - no-code platforms allow you to visually drag-and-drop elements to build your pages.
No-code website builders make it possible for literally anyone to build a website without any coding skills. Rather than writing complex code, these platforms provide an intuitive visual editor to design and customize your site via drag & drop.
I can't get easier than this!
Keep reading to understand the major benefits of using a visual editor and how LoftOS's Pages empowers users to create fully customized sites.
Why You Should Use A No-Code Website Builder
Thinking of building a website, but coding feels like a maze?
Here are some of the main reasons everyday users and entrepreneurs are switching to no-code tools for website building:
Speed: Forget any coding knowledge! No need to spend months learning HTML, CSS, JavaScript and web architecture. Visually design a professional quality website in just a few hours!
Affordability: Hiring a developer costs thousands. No-code tools allow you to DIY at low monthly rates. Many platforms, like LoftOS, offer a free plan to get started.
Simplicity: Forget about coding complex elements by hand. Website builders help you create easily via intuitive drag and drop while still having the design customization you need. It's similar to using a PowerPoint document.
Own Your Site: Don't rely on a developer to make changes. No-code platforms make it easy to maintain and edit a live site.
Scalability: No-code website builders offer the possibility to connect your web apps like marketplaces or internal tools to your new web pages for diverse functionality.
Clearly, no-code sets the foundation for getting online faster, cheaper and without needing development resources.
Website Builder vs. Coding: Which One is Better?
Think of website builders as a digital friendly guide. They're incredibly user-friendly, even if you've never built a website before. You get: A toolbox filled with all sorts of design goodies – templates, widgets, and more, all without needing to learn any techy stuff.
And the best part? You can go from an idea to a live website in no time!
Coding, on the other hand, is more like crafting something entirely from your imagination. It's great if you want something super specific and are okay with spending more time and effort. However, it's important to remember that this freedom comes with a price – time. Taking an idea to production can take months.
For businesses eager to hit the market swiftly, coding can be a lengthy journey, instead, we can speed things up with a web design tool like Pages, our integrated DIY website builder.
Build with The Power of Pages — Without Writing Any Code
So, we've seen how coding can be like waiting for paint to dry. Long, right?
Let's explore a way to skip all that and still get a stunning website without the need for coding. We're talking about Pages, our integrated website builder.
No more back-and-forth with IT, no more waiting for someone else to piece your vision together. Now, you can launch a website where you're in control, shaping each page to perfectly align with your style and needs.
Wished you could tweak your site's look without a tech team's help? 'Pages' makes that dream a reality. Want to incorporate forms and databases without touching code? Easy. Fancy a different layout? You got it. No delays, no extra fees – just pure creative freedom to quickly create responsive, professional sites.
Want to know more? Check out our article on the Pages update and learn how to design a website fuss-free.
Now let's take a look and see how these 5 innovators chose the quickest path to launching their online presence, effortlessly and without a single line of code with Pages.
Welcome Page by Health Proc Europe to Grow Their Membership
Health Proc Europe had a vision to create an online community hub bringing together healthcare procurement professionals across Europe to collaborate and share knowledge. They leveraged the customization potential of Pages to design and build a tailored site from scratch for this industry niche.
The Healthcare Buyers Community platform serves as their central gathering place for members to connect, exchange insights, and work on projects advancing innovation in European healthcare.
To introduce visitors to the offerings of this new community, Health Proc Europe used Pages to design a professional welcome page for their community.
Their page highlights:
- Key focus areas of the community like knowledge sharing and partnership on value-based procurement initiatives
- An overview of the different offerings in their platform and links to their resource library
- Details on their upcoming annual conference for European healthcare supply chain leaders
Collæb: Empowering Startups through Custom Landing Pages
As a rising star in the startup ecosystem, Aachen knows a thing or two about innovation, being home to over 200 tech companies! Looking to energize the startup scene, RWTH Aachen University created Collæb - an online co-creation community connecting idea stage founders with resources to turn concepts into companies.
Central to this initiative is their Incubator Academy, conducting virtual workshops on crucial elements like fundraising, branding, apps without code and more. To promote these events and enroll founders, Collæb designed a sleek welcome page through our drag and drop editor.
This visual lead capture page outlines:
- Upcoming seminars and schedules
- Notable mentors leading sessions
- The hands-on support available for enabling entrepreneurial vision
Beyond the welcome page, Collæb leverages Pages’ no-code flexibility to continually create new custom websites as needed. Whether showcasing their incubator program perks with eye-catching website design or lead gen landing pages for special projects like their ideation program, Pages intuitive builder helps them rapidly create professional custom websites from scratch.
StAfrica: Promoting Startup Dialogues Through Event Pages
StAfrica has an ambitious goal - create a digital ecosystem fostering startup collaboration between Germany and African nations.
With origins at the University of Koblenz, this initiative enables African entrepreneurs to access networks, education and resources to bring visions to life while opening doors for partnership across continents.
To spotlight their virtual events and conversations with experts from both regions, StAfrica was seeking the right website builder to easily create customizable pages themselves without coding expertise.
Enter Pages. Through our intuitive drag and drop editor, StAfrica designed an effective event landing pages to promote each talk. Featuring details like expert speakers, key talking points and options to register for upcoming sessions.
These simple yet visually effective page give their network a reliable destination to explore dialogue events - raising awareness and signups.
And thanks to no-code flexibility, StAfrica can modify templates or launch additional Pages on-the-fly as outreach expands across startup ecosystems unified in driving inclusive innovation.
We recently profiled StAfrica’s success leveraging LoftOS scalability and ease-of-use for their cross-continental mission in an exclusive interview. Check it out here.
Mansa Stars: Onboarding Clients Through “How It Works” Pages
As emerging stars rise across Africa’s startup ecosystem, Mansa Stars shines as a platform supporting founders on their scaling journey.
From helping founders craft winning pitch decks to launching across borders, Mansa Stars strives to provide 360-degree digital solutions enabling entrepreneurs to reach their full potential.
To aid user adoption, Mansa Stars used Pages to easily create an engaging “How It Works” page and platform overview directly on their site.
The visually-appealing website covers:
- Walkthrough of their platform features and icons so new users can navigate with confidence
- Outlines various membership tiers and associated resources
- Sections introducing what founders can expect about fundraising and accelerator programs
- Quick snapshots demonstrating user profiles and interactions
Thanks to Page's no-code flexibility, Mansa Stars can update guides or create new websites themselves, rather than put extra work on their small team to assist every new sign up.
Procure4Health: Streamlining Event Registration Requests Through Custom Pages
As a champion for innovation in European healthcare, Procure4Health connects stakeholders across regions to share insights that save lives.
Central to their mission is the Twinning initiative, enabling healthcare procurement groups to be paired for knowledge sharing workshops aimed at adopting impactful solutions.
To simplify the event application process, Procure4Health leveraged the power of website creation with Pages as an intuitive way to design an event-registration website themselves without coding skills.
The end result is a responsive page introducing their knowledge sharing program and its goals around technology adoption and capacity building. To make the application process easier, they placed a CTA button linked to an application form created with our integrated Forms module.
This allows interested procurers to seamlessly submit proposals as we handle data collection securely on the back end. Afterward, approved applicants meet to exchange best practices through LoftOS-powered matchmaking tools.
So, Can I Just Make a Website for Free?
As you can see from stories above, everyday people are bringing ideas to life on their own sites without coding using no-code website builders like our very own Pages.
Startup accelerators, regional innovation programs, B2B networks and many organizations design fully custom spaces just through dragging, dropping and tweaking templates. No scary lines of code in sight!
And here's the exciting news - you can dip your toes into launching your own online presence entirely free with LoftOS. We want to empower visions of all sizes, so we offer a generous free plan for testing concepts before upgrading.
Come for Pages, Stay for More: Choosing the Right No-Code Solution for You
But LoftOS is more than just website creation.
We offer an entire ecosystem of no-code solutions, enabling users even with zero experience to launch full web applications 10x faster.
Ready to hit the ground running? Try our templates, a curated selection of our most popular use-cases. Choose one that best fits your needs and launch any type of web projects you can think of in seconds.
You're Missing Out If You Don't Know These 5 European No Code Leaders
Ever felt like the tech world's spinning at light speed and you're just trying to catch up?
Unless you're looped in with these no code leaders we're spotlighting today, you're only seeing half the picture.
These 5 innovators are transforming the no code scene in Europe. From educational platforms to no code agencies, they're showing what's possible when you unlock development without the need for a single line of code.
In this article, we'll pull back the curtain on their innovative projects, and visionary mindsets. You'll discover how they're contributing to the no code movement while leading their projects to new heights.
Whether you're an aspiring founder, growth-focused executive, or tech-savvy professional, you'll gather insights to unleash innovation and get ahead of the no code wave sweeping across Europe.
Make sure to read all the way to the end!
What Are the Benefits of No Code?
As we explored in our previous article, no code solutions offer immense value to companies of all sizes. By enabling faster development without coding skills, these platforms unlock new potential.
No code replaces the traditional way of working with developers and tedious workarounds, with efficient automation.
It lets cross-functional teams use technology to build tools tailored to their needs, minus the complex coding requirements. The benefits speak for themselves: reduced costs, quicker time to market, and more flexibility to adapt.
Let's dive in and explore the creative spirit and bold vision propelling these incredible leaders from Cologne to Riga.
Katt Risen: The No Code Newsletter Navigator
Let's start our list with Belgium's own Katt Risen is a rising star guiding the no code movement. As founder of nocode-exits.com, she steers the helm of a newsletter amassing over 7000+ subscribers. With her pulse on the market and skill for distilling complex technical ideas, Katt is empowering people to embrace no code's potential.
The Project: nocode-exits.com
Katt's brainchild, nocode-exits.com, offers a deep dive into profitable or acquired no code projects - a treasure trove for anyone looking to understand the no code landscape. She provides insightful case studies, key insights, and real-world success stories.
What's New with nocode-exits.com
Recently, Katt featured a no code ad marketplace hitting $15,000 in monthly revenue. She also covered an acquired ride-share startup that sold to Lyft, showcasing no code's financial potential and diverse real-world applications.
Learn More About Katt
For those looking to follow Katt's personal journey, she actively shares the latest on her no code ventures and learnings on LinkedIn. Her articles and posts offer a goldmine of insight on no code development and entrepreneurship.
Max Heining: The No Code Educator
From the UK, meet Max Heining is at the forefront of the no code education movement with his platform, 100DaysOfNoCode. His mission is to demystify the world of no code for creators, no-coders, career switchers, and professionals through practical, extremely useful and engaging learning experiences
The Project: 100DaysOfNoCode
100DaysOfNoCode is an online campus that simplifies the no code learning process. It's designed to help people from all walks of life build apps, websites, and innovate without writing a single line of code. The platform boasts a community of over 12,000 no-coders and offers courses that promise to take you from novice to builder in just 100 days.
Current Happenings
With just a quick look you can see the platform buzzing with activity, offering a variety of courses including a free Intro to No Code Guide, the famous 100DaysOfNoCode Challenge, and a No Code MVP Bootcamp set to start in November 2023. These courses are crafted to cater to different learning styles, whether you prefer bite-sized lessons or beyond basic immersive bootcamps.
Dive Deeper into Max's World
Max's innovative approach to no code learning has not just captured the attention of learners but also the spotlight on platforms like Product Hunt. For a deeper understanding of how Max's 100DaysOfNoCode ascended to the top spot on Product Hunt, check out the insightful Growth Mentor blog post.
It's a testament to the platform's impact and Max's strategic vision in the no code space. Following his LinkedIn will also keep you updated on the latest from Max and the no code community he's building.
Rokas Jurkenas: The No Code Visionary
Hailing from Kaunas, Lithuania, Rokas Jurkenas is a leader in the no-code/low-code arena, having founded IdeaLink. His expertise in leveraging AI and no code solutions has revolutionized software development, delivering projects for his clients at a pace 5x faster than traditional coding.
The Project: IdeaLink
IdeaLink stands out as a No Code / Low Code development agency that prides itself on speed and efficiency. Rokas and his team have executed over 50+ projects, transforming the way web apps, apps, landing pages, and websites are brought to life. They promise a fully developed app from idea to production in just a few months — A stark contrast to the typical 6+ months development cycle.
Current Updates
Rokas recently attended the biggest no code conference in the world, returning with fresh insights and reinforced conviction in the no code movement's future. His LinkedIn post encapsulates the event's vibrancy, highlighting the growing intersection of AI and no code, the increasing adoption in enterprise environments, and the no code community's strength
This experience has undoubtedly influenced IdeaLink's direction, infusing new ideas and approaches to their already innovative services. Additionally, Rokas's role as Co-Founder of Code or No Code enriches his perspective. The platform, known for its comprehensive resources on no code tools, news, tutorials, and reviews, reflects his commitment to empowering others through accessible technology solutions.
Get to Know Rokas Jurkenas
Rokas isn't just a no code advocate behind the scenes; he's actively shaping the community dialogue. You can find more about his projects on X and his LinkedIn profile is also rich with insights, showcasing his journey and the milestones of IdeaLink. For those keen on the pulse of no code innovation, following Rokas is a window into the future of technology made accessible.
Lilith Brockhaus: The No Code Champion
Lilith Brockhaus is a name you want to remember in the no code scene. Hailing from Cologne, Germany, she's the co-founder of both VisualMakers and NoCode.ONE. Her mission? To revolutionize how we create software - no coding degree required.
VisualMakers: Your No Code Academy
VisualMakers is an ecosystem and community where anyone can learn to build no-code solutions without writing a single line of code. It's a hub for innovation, offering free entry into the world of no code development and a community where you can come and meet hundreds of no-coders to support your journey.
Through project-based courses, users can collaborate with a community of hundreds to master no code tools. The interactive approach accelerates real-world skills, from building websites to launching apps.
What's New with Lilith?
Lilith Brockhaus means business and she's on a roll, with her ventures VisualMakers and NoCode.ONE gaining traction. VisualMakers is expanding its reach, teaching more people to automate processes and create digital products.
Meanwhile, NoCode.ONE is delivering custom digital solutions at an unprecedented pace, showcasing the power of no code and low code tools. Together, these platforms reflect Lilith's vision of making software development accessible and efficient.
Dive Deeper into Lilith's World
Want to get the scoop on the latest no code strategies? Follow Lilith Brockhaus on LinkedIn. She's not just transforming ideas into digital realities; she's shaping the future of software development. Stay tuned to her updates and learn from a leader who's redefining the tech landscape.
Cedrik Dudek: The No Code/Low Code Maestro
Cedrik Dudek is a name that's becoming synonymous with the no code movement in Europe. As the Co-Founder and Managing Director of the low-code agency 02100 Digital, he's at the forefront of digital transformation, empowering startups and helping businesses to innovate rapidly with low-code and no code solutions.
The Project: 02100 Digital
02100 Digital is the vanguard of the no code revolution in Europe, the Hamburg-based agency that's changing the game in digitalization. They're not just about coding; they're about empowering businesses to leap from idea to digital reality at breakneck speed, shortening the usual lenghty timeline.
With a focus on low-code solutions and Webflow expertise, they're crafting digital experiences that are as robust as they are rapid. Their approach has helped startups and SMEs like Hydragun and Der Spiegel to navigate and ensure their success in the digital world with unprecedented agility.
What's New with Cedrik?
Cedrik Dudek and the 02100 Digital team are making headlines as they proudly announce their sponsorship of this year's Webflow Conf. This strategic move not only underscores their commitment to the no code community but also cements their status as key players in the European digital innovation scene.
Find more about Cedrik's Expertise
To learn more about Cedrik's vision and 02100 Digital's innovative strides, keep an eye on his Linkedin posts for his latest insights in no code and low-code. They're not just building software; they're crafting the future of business agility.
No Code is Where Innovation Thrives
That wraps our spotlight on no-code experts pushing boundaries across Europe. While their approaches vary, one thing is clear – no code empowers innovation when fully embraced.
Follow these innovative leaders on social media to stay plugged into the future of no code. Their drive and vision know no limits. Hopefully their stories have inspired you to dream big and get building. With the right mindset and tools, there’s no limit to what you can create.
Speaking of tools, If you’re ready to launch your own no code solution or need help getting started, we're happy to support you along the way.
Check out our LoftOS's templates, we've curated the perfect list with our most popular use-cases so you can build your solutions 10X faster and hit the ground running.
The no code revolution is just getting started – now it’s your turn to leave your mark!
2 Continents, 1 Platform: How StAfrica is Building a Startup Community Across Continents with LoftOS
Meet StAfrica - Startup Germany-Africa
Meet StAfrica Startup Germany-Africa, the startup community that's igniting a new era of economic collaboration between Germany and Africa.
Backed by Germany's Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action, StAfrica is on a dual mission: to make Germany irresistible to African startups and to pave the way for German SMEs into Africa.
Born three years ago from a glaring disconnect between the two regions, StAfrica has evolved into a bustling economic bridge.
So, how did this audacious initiative come to life? We sat down with Materne L. Mateso, a Project Lead at StArfrica, to get the scoop on how LoftOS is fueling this pioneering project.
The Catalyst - Awakening Cross-Continental Potential
Before StAfrica build a startup community, the startup and entrepreneurship dialogue between Germany and Africa had its gaps. Materne and his team saw these not as roadblocks but as areas ripe for innovation and untapped potential.
Enter Materne and his team, who saw this not as a roadblock but as untapped potential.
Amidst Africa's green transition and other global shifts, they knew it was time to light a fire under this dormant relationship.
Backed by key players like the Ministry of Economics and Climate Change and the University of Koblenz, StAfrica set out on its quest: to turn this missing link into a bustling economic highway.
The Problem - Can Building a Digital Startup Community Connect Continents?
In the fast-paced startup scene, StArfrica envisioned building a digital startup community hub where German and African entrepreneurs could connect, network, learn, and explore each region's startup landscape and business opportunities.
Sounds simple, right? Not so fast.
They faced a big hurdle — how to seamlessly blend networking with e-learning. And it wasn't just any hurdle; it was like trying to mix oil and water. They needed a one-stop shop that could do it all.
So, they turned to Innoloft with a challenge: Could a single platform meet StAfrica's lofty goals, or would they have to go back to the drawing board? And if so, would it fulfill the unique needs of StAfrica's ambitious project?
The LoftOS Solution - Building a Startup Community to Bridge Divides and Build Connections
When StAfrica needed a stable platform to power their first-of-its-kind German-African Startup community, they found their match in LoftOS.
What really clinched the deal were two key features: our 'programs' for e-learning and our 'events' module. These became Materne's daily go-to's, so essential that he joked about losing sleep if they ever went down.
StAfrica took it to the next level with our 'programs' feature, enabling them to host e-learning entrepreneurship courses tailored to their unique needs. This also transformed their platform into a hub for online learning, enabling knowledge exchange efficiently and effectively.
And when it comes to organizing exchange trips for startups between African countries and Germany, guess what? LoftOS is right there, making it all possible.
Materne explained how these cross-country exchanges are organized through the platform:
We have visits from African startups coming to Germany and vice versa. It's all coordinated on the platform, from sending out applications to reviewing them. The physical work is there, but it’s now all digitalized entirely.wh
Let's dive a bit deeper and see how LoftOS is making Materne's work easier.
The Result - A Startup Community Where Tech Meets Tangible Impact
Let's get into the numbers. LoftOS's 'programs' feature has become such a cornerstone for StAfrica, accounting for 60% of their platform activities with more than 150 daily users. And let's not forget our 'events' module — it's responsible for facilitating 20% of StAfrica's event-related tasks.
As you can already imagine, this has led to a significant increase in the efficiency of Materne's workflows.
Materne sees another layer of value in using LoftOS for StAfrica.
The startup community has become the first port of call for African startups landing in Germany, and Materne sees LoftOS as more than just a tool; it's a trust-builder. Startups from both Germany and Africa are flocking to the platform, not just to network, but to network effectively.
Both sides sign up to the platform, get vetted by the StAfrica team, display projects, share offers, and even industry news. All while our intelligent matchmaking system makes sure that when these companies meet, it's not just a handshake; it's a meaningful connection.
On the cost-saving front, Materne and his team are eyeing the next frontier: moving their successful in-person incubator programs online via LoftOS.
Why? Two words: cost and reach.
These programs have been a hit since 2021, with their second cohort alone pulling in 230 applications, accepting 116, and graduating 17. Imagine turning this success online — digital incubators would mean fewer overheads, broader reach, and a decreased need for on-ground staff.
So, what's the big takeaway? LoftOS isn't just a platform; it's the future of meaningful, scalable connections in the startup community world.
Why did StAfrica Choose LoftOS?
When StAfrica was on the hunt for a platform, what ultimately won them over were two things: communication and cost-efficiency. Materne couldn't say enough about our quick responses. He recalls:
Any challenge we ever had, it was easy to talk to them and the communication channels are very open.
And it's not just about speed; it's about effectiveness. "If the person you're talking to can't solve your issue, they swiftly communicate your needs to the IT team," Materne adds.
But the perks don't stop there. Materne also highlighted how LoftOS has been a cost-saver for them, especially when it comes to training. "Instead of flying someone over for two or three weeks, we can now deliver two weeks' worth of training right on the LoftOS platform. That brings the costs really down and helps a lot on the cost-saving side," he notes.
3 Quick-Fire Questions about LoftOS for Materne
Q: What's one LoftOS feature you couldn't live without?
Tough to pick just one! But if I had to, I'd say it's a tie between 'programs' and 'events.' The 'programs' feature is a lifesaver for our e-learning courses, and 'events' keeps everything organized. Oh, and let's not forget 'chat groups' for seamless communication.
These features are my bread and butter.
Q: Any advice for organizations or institutions looking to try LoftOS?
If you're a program manager, know that LoftOS is an incredibly flexible tool to build a startup community. LoftOS is all about efficiency too. I can't even imagine going back to the old way of doing things. In short, LoftOS makes your life easy and helps you hit your targets without breaking a sweat.
Q: How would you describe LoftOS to someone who's never heard about it before?
In one word? Awesome. LoftOS is more than just a platform; it's a flexible tool that adapts to your project's unique needs. It's designed to be intuitive, so you can shape it to fit your goals right out of the box.
The StAfrica Experience - Where Vision Meets Reality
The StAfrica story is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, innovation, and the right digital tools come together. It's a tale of breaking down barriers and building bridges — literally and figuratively.
If you're a project manager at a research institute, economic development agency or startup program looking to build a community, this could be your story too. LoftOS isn't just a platform; it's a catalyst for change, a tool that can elevate your project from concept to reality, just like it did for StAfrica.
LoftOS isn't just a platform; it's a catalyst for change, a tool that can elevate your project from concept to reality, just like it did for StAfrica. Ready to transform your institution's goals into tangible results?
Check out our platform templates and start creating yours for free today.
Launch Faster: The Complete Guide to Configuring Your New LoftOS Platform
👋 Welcome to the beginning of your LoftOS journey! You've just unlocked a world of endless possibilities, and guess what? Customizing couldn't be easier.
The purpose of this guide is to help you align your platform with your goals.
Whether you're a startup looking to scale or an enterprise aiming for more efficient workflows,
LoftOS has got you covered. Flexibility? It's not just a buzzword here; it's our middle name and in this guide we’ll show you how.
🗺️ To make navigating this guide easier, we've added a table of contents below divided it into bite-sized sections. First, we'll talk about basic steps when setting up your new platform, then we’ll walk you through modules and finally we’ll talk about customizing your navigation panel to your liking.
Table of contents:
- Platform Setup - First Steps
- Customizing your LoftOS Experience - General Settings
- Goals and Use Cases: Your Roadmap to Success
- Turning Goals Into Actionable Configuration Steps (with an example)
- Mastering Module Settings: Shape Your Platform's Core Functions
- Understanding Databases, Types and Attributes
- Your Navigation, Your Rules
- Access Management: Your Gateway Keeper
- Don't Just Customize — Personalize with LoftOS Pages
Let's get started!
1. Platform Setup - First Steps
If you haven’t created your free platform yet, click here to get started and follow these steps. And if you have, you can skip ahead to the next section.
Step 1: Name Your Platform & URL
Kick things off by giving your platform a memorable name and a URL. Don't stress; you can always change these later in the settings.
Step 2: Choose a Template (Or Don't)
Here's where the fun begins. LoftOS offers templates that pre-configure your platform for specific use-cases. Whether you're into Research & Education, Sales & Marketing, or even Community Management, think of them as a starting point — a quick way to get your platform up and running without breaking a sweat.
For example, let's say you're focused on sparking innovation in your local community. Our "Regional Innovation Network" template is your go-to choice. It sets you up with all the essentials to cultivate partnerships and drive growth in your area.
Keep this in mind: These aren't rigid, one-size-fits-all solutions. Nope, they're more like guidelines. You can tweak them,, or even build upon them to fit your unique needs
But hey, if you want to go freestyle, that's okay too.
Step 3: Check Your Inbox
Once you hit 'Continue,' keep an eye on your email. You'll get a welcome message from our sales team with all the details you need to get started.
Alright, you've laid the groundwork. Next, we'll talk about how to make your platform truly yours.
2.Customizing your LoftOS Experience - General Settings
For starters, let’s configure your visual experience. We’re talking about colors, logo, navigation and everything that identifies your brand.
Where to Go?
Navigate to: Home ➡️ Admin ➡️ Platform Settings ➡️ General Settings.
Step 4: Colors & Logo
Dial in your brand's style by setting the primary, secondary, and navigation colors. Don't forget the logo and favicon! The primary color sets the tone for your platform. This color will be used for buttons, scroll bars, and other design elements like emails, footers, etc...
Navigation colors jazz up your header bar, where you find the search, messaging center, notifications and other settings. As you know, your logo is the face of your platform. It shows up in emails and updates sent to your users.
Step 5: Language of Platform
Choose the languages you want your platform to be in.
LoftOS lets you add multiple languages, thanks to our state-of-the-art machine translation models. The goal is to lower language barriers and promote international networking between all users in the Innoloft Ecosystem.
Keep in mind that translation quality can vary by language. European languages usually come out with better quality, but for others like Chinese, the results might be a bit hit-or-miss sometimes.
Heads up: On the free plan, you can only pick one language alongside English.
Step 6: Contact Information
This is where you jot down all the essentials:
Organization Name, Email, Address, Phone, and any extra tidbits. This info will show up in places like the imprint and email footers. Make sure it's up-to-date!
Step 7: Legal Notice
You can either write your own or link to an external one. Your call.
Step 8: Terms of Usage
The terms of usage are your platform's rulebook. They outline what's allowed, what's not, and what users can expect from your service.
Good news: LoftOS has got you covered with ready-to-edit templates in both German and English.
Okay, you've nailed the basics. Next, we'll dive into mapping your goals for the platform before we jump into customizing your navigation.
3. Goals and Use Cases: Your Roadmap to Success
Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of configuring LoftOS modules, take a step back. What are you aiming to achieve with your platform? Jot down your goals and list every use-case you can envision.
Trust us, this will make your life easier down the line.
Project Background & Strategy
Understanding your vision is key to configuring your platform effectively. Ask yourself:
What are your goals?
- Are you looking to showcase innovative technologies to SMEs?
- Do you want to streamline customer service interactions?
- Or are you finding solutions to business challenges?
Who's your target audience?
- Knowing who you're trying to reach helps tailor your platform.
What value will your project provide?
- This could be anything from increasing efficiency to generating revenue.
Who are your stakeholders?
- Who will be directly involved in the project/using the platform?
Questions to Think About:
Impact: What qualitative goals do you have? Maybe you're aiming to cut down user time spent on a specific task or increase efficiency in a certain area.
KPIs: How will you measure success? It could be the number of onboarded users, generated matches, or any other metric that matters to you.
4.Turning Goals Into Actionable Configuration Steps (with an example)
So you've got your goals, KPIs, and target audience. Now, how do you turn these into actual platform settings? Let's dive into an example to make this crystal clear.
Target Audience: Students and Corporates
Value Provided:
- For Students: Job offers
- For Corporates: Candidate profiles
Platform Requirement: Enable corporates to showcase job offers
Configuration Requirement: Create a database for job offers in the 'Offers' module.
See what we did there? We took the general aim of 'connecting students and corporates' and translated it into specific configuration steps you can implement in LoftOS.
5.Mastering Module Settings: Shape Your Platform's Core Functions
Now that you’ve decided what you want your platform to be about. It’s time to talk about modules, the heart of your platform.
Where to Find It
Navigate to: Admin ➡️ Platform Settings ➡️ Module Settings.
This is your platform's control center. It's where you pull the strings to make magic happen. Want to enable users to create offers, requests, or share news of your organization? This is where you make it happen.
In Module Settings, you can manage databases, types, attributes, and more. It's like your platform's DNA.
Default Modules You'll Find
First off, when you open your new platform, you’ll find these modules that can be configured within the module settings:
- Feed: Your platform's social pulse.
- Offers: Where deals get made.
- Organizations: The who's who of your platform.
- Requests: What people are looking for.
- News: Keep everyone in the loop.
- Projects: Where you showcase your organization's achievements.
You can configure any type of database, types, and attributes within each module, except ‘Feed’. Below, we'll dive into what this means, so keep reading!
Other Modules to Think About
Besides these, LoftOS offers other modules like:
- Members: Manage your community members.
- Events: Create and manage live virtual events like webinars or, workshops.
- Groups: Create specialized ‘sub-networks’ groups within the LoftOS Network.
- Forms: Collect information and feedback from events or other use-cases.
- Programs: Run online learning programs for your users.
- Awards and Accelerator Programs: Foster innovation, recognize and celebrate achievements.
These don't have Module Settings but are equally important to consider for your platform's functionality.
6. Understanding Databases, Types and Attributes
If all of these terms sound intimidating, don't worry. We've got you covered. It's simpler than it sounds, promise!
What's a Database?
A Database is a folder in each module where you can store specific types of data. For example, in the 'Offers' module, let’s create a database called 'Job Database.'
Once you've created a database, you can give it a unique URL, icon, header image and even decide who gets to see or edit it.
Types: The Heart of Your Database
Types are like sub-folders in your database. Your new platform comes with some pre-set types like 'Patent' or 'Research Result,' (within the ‘offers’ module in this example) but you’re not limited to these. You can always create your own individual types to fit your specific needs.
Quick Heads-Up: It's worth mentioning that the 'Organizations' module is a bit of an exception. You can't create custom types there; you'll have to work with the default types it offers.
Are you still with me so far?
Ok, so following our ‘Job Database’ example above, let's say you create a new type called 'Job Openings’. Each type comes with standard sections like 'Header' and 'Target Customers' to help you present your offer as detailed as possible.
Think of sections as the building blocks of your types. They help you organize the specific information you want to capture in a particular module.
Section Tips:
- You can rearrange the order of sections by dragging them around.
- Toggle visibility and options on or off as you like.
- The position of the Header-Section is fixed, so it stays put.
But guess what? You're not stuck with just the default sections. Feel free to add your own. In our 'Job Openings' example, you could introduce a new section called 'Skills Required' and add specific attributes to it.
So, What Are Attributes?
These are the specific questions or data points you want to capture within each section. You can choose from various formats like multiple-choice, file upload, and more.
So, in your 'Job Database,' you could have a ‘Job Openings' type with a custom section for 'Employment Type’ with a single choice attribute, or you can also include a multiple-choice that filters a particular skill required.
With so many customization options, you can tailor your platform in a million different ways. Remember, LoftOS isn't just a community management solution; it's a canvas for your imagination.
7. Your Navigation, Your Rules
So, you've got the hang of general settings, dabbled in module settings, and even set up some databases. Awesome! Now, let's talk about the cherry on top: navigation settings.
Navigate to: Admin ➡️ Platform Settings ➡️ Navigation Settings.
This is where you can make your platform feel like home. Here you can rename those entry points, link them to your databases, edit their icons, toggle on/off visibility and even add dropdowns to guide your users exactly where they need to go.
Understanding 'Link' Options in Navigation Settings
If you scroll down to the bottom of the Navigation Settings page, you'll find a section labeled 'Link.' This is where the magic happens for each of your navigation entry points.
Let's break down what each option means:
Database: This allows you to link the entry point to a specific database like Offers, Requests, Organizations, or News.
Module: Use this to link the entry point to a specific module, such as Events, Groups, Feed, etc.
Single Entity: This lets you link to a specific piece of content on your platform, like a single offer, request, group, or news article.
External Link: Use this to redirect users to an external website. You can link to LoftOS forms, Pages, or any other external sites.
Start a Chat with a User: This sets up a direct line to a contact person for a specific topic.
Need a little inspiration?
Let’s take a look at our customer Netherlands Institute for Sustainable Packaging (KIDV) and their platform Planet Reuse.
In their navigation, they've got a dropdown menu called 'Marketplace' with entry points like 'Reuse Solutions' and 'Supplies and Services' connected to their respective databases. Imagine being in the food industry and finding the perfect reusable container offerings in just a couple of clicks. That's the power of a well-crafted navigation.
Just like Planet Reuse did, you can tailor your navigation to fit your specific needs. Are you a startup looking to highlight your services or software? Build an offers database to connect with potential SMEs, corporations or investors. Operating a regional innovation center? How about a 'Local Initiatives' dropdown to showcase community projects?
There’s no limit and the possibilities are all yours to explore.
Explore More with LoftOS Customers
Want to see more examples? You can head over to our customers page to explore how others are using LoftOS to their advantage. The best part? Many of these platforms offer free access, meaning you can check out their navigation settings without even logging in.
Get inspired and see what you can create!
8. Access Management: Your Gateway Keeper
Alright, you’ve made it this far!
You've set up your LoftOS no-code platform, tweaked the modules, and even personalized your navigation settings. Now, let's talk about who gets to see all this. Enter "Access Settings," the bouncer of your platform.
When you navigate to Access Management, the first thing you'll see is "Access Settings." Here's the rundown:
Private Users: Is worth noting that there are two options.The first one were users can access your platform, read data and take part in events with a private account without revealing their organization. And the second option, where your users must be assigned to an organization to use your platform.
Access After Approval: Think of this as your VIP list. You'll find options that range from a total open house to a VIP-only access.
Packages: The Fine Print of Access
Packages are your way of dialing in on the details. They let you specify what each organization on your platform can see and do. For example, you could set up an 'Investors' package that only allows access to the 'Organizations' module.
For more details, learn more about packages on our Knowledge Base.
9. Don't Just Customize — Personalize with LoftOS Pages
Your LoftOS journey doesn't stop at modules and navigation settings. Nope, we're taking it up a notch! Imagine not just tweaking settings but actually crafting web pages that are a mirror image of your brand.
This isn't just another feature; it's your secret weapon to take your brand to the next level. With ‘Pages’ you can create landing pages, event registration pages, and even internal platform pages like welcome pages or content publishing hubs. The possibilities are endless.
To find it, head over to Admin ➡️ Content Management ➡️ Pages and hit that "+ Page" sign at the top right corner.
Once you create a custom URL you’ll be taken to our versatile web builder loaded with sleek templates for everything from Headers to FAQs.
Real-World Example: Meet Collaeb
Need some inspiration? Check out how Collaeb, a platform that connects entrepreneurs and startups in Aachen, used LoftOS Pages to elevate their user experience.
They crafted an event registration page for their upcoming Fempreneurs event, rolled out a welcome page for their Collective Incubator Academy, and even put together a step-by-step guide for individuals to learn how to create the perfect profile that stands out.
And the best part? No coding required. Curious? You should be. Dive into our in-depth ‘Pages’ article to discover how you can turn your platform into a personalized powerhouse.
Your Next Chapter Starts with LoftOS
You've just had a wholesome tour of what LoftOS can do, and trust us, this is just the tip of the iceberg. If you want to dive deeper into specific features, check our Knowledge base, where you can find detailed information on all features and modules, learn best practices, and get guided videos to understand your new platform better.
From setting up your platform to customizing modules and even building your own web pages, LoftOS is as flexible as you are ambitious.
It's not about fitting into a mold anymore; it's about breaking the mold and creating something uniquely yours.
So, what are you waiting for? If you haven't already, create your free platform now and start turning your wildest dreams into digital reality.
Top 5 B2B Community Building Ideas from The LoftOS Summit 2023
In September 2023, Innoloft transformed the Digital Church in Aachen into a sanctuary of innovation and collaboration for the annual LoftOS Summit.
A historic church turned digital hub, buzzing with tech enthusiasts, SaaS pros, and industry leaders. The air was thick with 'Aha!' moments, from interactive workshops to candid talks with our founders and team members.
If you were lucky enough to be there, this recap will serve as a delightful déjà vu. Missed it? Well, let's just say you'll want to clear your calendar for next year.
Here are the 5 great ideas from the LoftOS Summit 2023 that had everyone talking about B2B community building.
1. Building a Thriving B2B Community
Community building is more than just a catchphrase; it's a strategy, finely tuned by experts like Kevin Bruns.
Kevin, who manages 'innomatch,' has a unique approach to B2B community engagement. In this workshop, he shed light on the vital role of a Community Manager.
He emphasizes that this is not just a mere title, but a multifaceted responsibility of guiding the community's energy towards meaningful engagement. Kevin's approach of shared community management, where he teams up with select partners to co-create content, highlighting the significance of inclusivity.
His skilled approach transforms the platform into a collaborative hub, where everyone feels like they own it. It's all about that sense of shared ownership, that's what really helps create a tight-knit and engaged B2B community.
To accomplish this, Kevin leverages the 'packages' feature in LoftOS, by creating a partner
package with different access rights and granting selected partners the ability to publish content on the platform, fostering a shared community management approach.
One of the challenges of this approach, Kevin mentions, is to keep partners in the loop, making sure they don't feel left out.
To tackle this as community managers, he emphasizes on the importance of making sure that no partner or stakeholder feels like you're working against them. Actually, what we want is to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and included.
Kevin’s talk highlighted the paramount importance of community building within an organization. It's not just about increasing numbers; it's about maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring no partner feels alienated.
Overall, Kevin's insights on community building were a hit among attendees.
2. Maximizing User Experience in B2B Communities
Another hot topic at the LoftOS Summit was all about user experience (UX). With the rise of digital platforms and SaaS users, it's essential to create a seamless and satisfactory UX design.
In the workshop "How to Achieve Your Business Goals With LoftOS" We learned that user experience ismore than just a pretty interface; it's about making every interaction count in the realm of B2B community building. Sven, our CEO, led a session that was nothing short of a masterclass in maximizing user experience within a professional community.
The spotlight was on the 'Key Transactions Theory,' a concept that urges you to focus on what really matters when it comes to B2B community building. According to Sven, the first step is to define your user groups. But don't stop there; identify that one key transaction that adds value to each group. Is it posting jobs? Matching with mentors? Whatever it is, make it the star of the show.
The next step is to streamline the user journey for that key transaction. Cut the fluff and get straight to the point on your landing page. The goal? Let users complete that key transaction with the fewest clicks possible. And don't forget to measure those KPIs; they're your roadmap to improvement.
The usage of LoftOS packages for a tailor-made user experience
The deep-dive session reiterated the immense potential of the LoftOS 'packages' feature as a strategic tool for enhancing user experience.
Here are 3 key pointers discussed:
- Earn money or leads: Packages provide an opportunity to monetize your platform. You may not be selling a physical product, but you can certainly sell value. Offering different packages such as 'Starter,' 'Premium,' or 'Plus,' each with unique features and functionalities, can attract a diverse audience. Whether you're generating direct revenue or collecting valuable leads, packages can turn your platform into a revenue stream.
- Manage Access Rights: Just as Kevin exemplified in his community management approach, the package feature can also be applied to manage access rights. With LoftOS, you can customize the extent of access and control that each package offers, ensuring every user gets a tailor-made experience suitable for their needs and level of engagement.
- Customize for each user group: The beauty of Packages lies in their adaptability. You can create a customized platform experience for each user group. This tailoring makes the platform more relevant and attractive to different users, thereby enhancing their overall experience and engagement.
The 'packages' feature in LoftOS is a strategic asset that can greatly level up your platform's user experience. It's all about making your users feel like they're getting the most out of your platform. In fact, this concept aligns with the Key Transactions Theory, which emphasizes the importance of optimizing user interactions to drive success.
3. Customization is King in B2B Community Building
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, customization is no longer a luxury but a necessity, especially in the context of building business-to-business communities. And this is where LoftOS shines - delivering a platform that is as unique as your needs.
A standout session at the summit ran under the title "Tailor LoftOS to Your Needs: How Can I Further Customize the Platform?" Led by our founders Chris and Philipp B., this workshop provided a deep dive into the potential of Pages and the customization of Databases.
The first session on databases served as an eye-opener into the world of customization. In LoftOS, a database is essentially a specialized folder in each module where you can store specific types of data, such as job postings, or offers. Setting the stage for unparalleled customization in developing B2B networks.
Our founders showcased the power of Types and Attributes in LoftOS databases. Types can be assigned to specific databases and act like ultimate organizers, categorizing your data just the way you want it, while Attributes are the nitty-gritty details, capturing everything from multiple-choice questions to file uploads.
Attendees got a real taste of LoftOS by creating a "Job" database, a hands-on example that demonstrated how these elements make your platform not just organized, but also dynamic and interactive.
...And what about Pages?
Well...imagine developing your own web pages in record time without requiring coding skills .
In this session, attendees were able to learn how to tailor their web pages to match their specific needs and requirements, making the platform truly theirs. They were also shown its versatility by going through different use cases.
Whether you want to create landing pages, an event registration page, or a content publishing site, Pages is your no-code website creator tool perfect for establishing professional communities.
Pages also offers a cost-saving alternative to hiring a team of developers. With the ability to create and manage content in real-time, it's both efficient and cost-effective
To further illustrate the power of customization, take a look at how our customer Collaeb built a stunning event registration page for their Fempreneurs event using Pages. You can learn more details in our in-depth article about Pages.
4. Smart Monetization Strategies for B2B Communities
A breakthrough moment at the summit was the enlightening session on "Capitalizing on LoftOS: Envisioning Profitable Strategies for Your Platform". Attendees had a unique opportunity to delve deep into the monetization capabilities of LoftOS, engaging in vibrant discussions on prominent platform business models.
Chris and Philipp B. kicked off by discussing some general business models that are big in the platform world to provide a broader perspective on how platforms can monetize, like the marketplace model, where platform operators connect people to exchange products and services B2B networking group, and the reseller model, where operators manage supply and demand.
Second, they demoed LoftOS's first digital booking for a subscription-based business model in LoftOS based on Packages, which is the first of its kind in LoftOS and will be available by the end of this year.
This was the real meat of the session, showing what LoftOS can do right now.
Participants also witnessed first-hand how some of these models have been successfully implemented by our clients. Notably, E-world, Europe's largest energy trade fair, pivoted to a hybrid B2B networking model in response to Covid-19.
Similarly, Deutsche Telekom effectively employs a reseller model through its startup program Techboost. Curious to try out a reseller model for yourself? Check out our Reseller Platform Template to get started. Who knows? Your success story could be the highlight of our next summit!
Lastly, the floor was opened for a discussion about the future of LoftOS's capabilities. Attendees got to share their input on what they'd like to see next to make their B2B community building process ever more streamlined, making it a collaborative vision of the platform's future. This open dialogue underscored the potential of LoftOS as a powerful tool for business growth, rounding off an incredibly insightful session.
5. Event Planning Reimagined: Going Beyond the Basics
In the engaging workshop titled "Transforming Events With LoftOS," participants explored the world of event management. The highlight of this informative session was Kevin Bruns, who demonstrated how offline events could be enhanced with the concept of speed-dating in business-to-business networks.
Armed with a dedicated marketing budget, Kevin transformed ordinary speed-dating into an extraordinary experience. He introduced the idea of a "Speed-dating Kit," equipped with table numbers, name tags, and even whistles, which is a creative approach to building business-to-business communities.
Kevin takes it a step further by offering these kits to partners. The goal? To help them effortlessly host their own speed-dating events on innomatch, turning it into a ready-to-go solution for creating interactive and fun events that are sure to spark your community building initiatives.
These kits not only enlivened the discussion but also brought a tangible presence to an otherwise abstract concept.
Kevin introduced these 'Speed-dating' practical insights to the attendees:
First, we explored the strategic positioning of speed dating sessions within an event. According to Kevin, scheduling them either at the beginning or end ensured a much better response.
We also delved into the efficiency of smartphone registration. This system allowed participants to register and get their first partner pairing immediately, starting the speed-dating event without delay.
The final gem was Kevin's approach to managing unmatched participants - a challenge often encountered when participants fail to log in and check matches before the event. His smooth handling of such situations undoubtedly enhanced the overall event experience.
Why You Need to Attend Next Year
We hope that these key takeaways from the LoftOS Summit spark your curiosity and encourage you to redefine the boundaries of your potential B2B community building.
We're excited for what's to come, and even more so to have you be part of this journey. If you haven't taken LoftOS for a spin yet, why not start now? Create your platform, begin customizing, and experience the versatility and potential that LoftOS offers. And remember, we're here to support you every step of the way. We hope to see you at the summit next year, continuing this adventure together.
How innomatch is Revolutionizing Lower Saxony's Startup Scene with Our Software Solution for Government Agencies
Introducing startup.niedersachsen
At the heart of Lower Saxony's burgeoning entrepreneurial scene lies startup.niedersachsen, a government-backed organization committed to fueling innovation and fostering business growth.
Its mission? To create a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem where startups and potential investors can seamlessly connect.
To achieve this, they leveraged the power of LoftOS to create innomatch, a networking platform that blossomed into a full digital community, experiencing substantial growth within a single year tailored to meet the unique needs of startups and investors alike.
Through innomatch, startup.niedersachsen set out to transform a disjointed ecosystem into an integrated network of thriving startups, eager investors and cooperating corporates, with the help of a software solution for government agencies.
To gain insider insights into this exciting transformation and understand how startup.niedersachsen utilizes LoftOS to reshape the startup landscape of Lower Saxony, we had an enlightening conversation with Kevin Bruns, one of the key players at startup.niedersachsen.
The Catalyst - A Software for Government Agencies to Streamlined Collaboration
Kevin enthrallingly describes the genesis of innomatch as a journey instigated by a simple yet powerful vision: to create a platform that would catalyze connections between startups, investors, and companies in Lower Saxony.
Just over a year and a half ago, the team at startup.niedersachsen was approached by a prominent association representing the economy of Lower Saxony. Their message was clear and compelling — Lower Saxony's startups needed a platform to facilitate connections, a place to exchange ideas and experiences and to connect with potential investors.
Recognizing the gap and the growing need for a more cohesive and expansive networking platform, startup.niedersachsen had a vision. The idea was clear and compelling; what they needed now was the right platform to bring this vision to life.
Identifying the need was just the first step, an inkling of a grand idea. The challenge that lay ahead for startup.niedersachsen was sourcing the perfect platform to turn this ambitious idea into a tangible reality.
The Problem – Juggling Inefficacy and Complexities
Upon joining startup.niedersachsen, Kevin was immediately confronted with an array of disparate, homegrown platforms. The team realized these were simply too localized to effectively serve the diverse and widespread startup community of Lower Saxony, illustrating a common challenge in public service software applications.
Despite their best efforts, some of the smaller platforms failed, reinforcing the need for a centralized approach.
Kevin, reflecting on their decision, stated,
I think the move to centralize things from a Lower Saxony perspective was a positive one, not only for efficiency but also because it established a neutral platform, operated by the state with no vested investment interests or profit-oriented intention
This neutrality truly emphasized their commitment to promoting a flourishing startup ecosystem in Lower Saxony.
But this was just the beginning.
At the same time, working with government entities is not for the faint of heart. Is often a tricky terrain. As Kevin pointed out, creating software for government bodies comes with a labyrinth of regulations and complexities. Furthermore, convincing those in the governmental sphere to trust in new software is no easy task.
Trust is paramount, but with LoftOS, they found a partner that had previously navigated these bureaucratic waters successfully.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of a platform’s sustainability. Smaller centers with limited staff could close down swiftly, leaving users in the lurch. This understanding underscored the need for a robust, reliable platform like LoftOS, capable of standing the test of time.
The LoftOS Solution - A Centralized Regional Platform for Innovation
Upon identifying the challenges faced by startup.niedersachsen, the Innoloft team sprang into action, armed with a solution designed to revolutionize the innovation ecosystem of Lower Saxony.
The LoftOS platform, with its robust marketplace and inbuilt chat functionality, offered an ideal solution that hit the sweet spot of the organization's needs, allowing not only startups but all players in Lower Saxony's innovation scene to exchange ideas seamlessly.
This inclusive, centralized, and easily accessible platform stood as a haven of streamlined communication and connection, its marketplace providing a hub for interaction and its chat function expediting the process of idea exchange.
Kevin also points out the significant impact of our group function introduced. With this, the need for frequent individual calls was practically eliminated, replaced by a group communication system that ensured the simultaneous engagement of multiple companies.
The reduction in time and effort was considerable; previously, 20 separate sales calls would perhaps only reach a fraction of the companies. Now, a single group message could engage up to 50 companies, an impressive boost for scaling. An impressive boost for scaling with the help of digital tools for public administration.
This praise was echoed by the Minister for Economic Affairs, Olaf Lies, who quoted innomatch, powered by LoftOS, as the "platform of all platforms in Lower Saxony," a testament to its transformative influence on the startup landscape, and a shining example of innovative digital government solutions.
The Result - A Vibrant Startup Network in Lower Saxony
The implementation of LoftOS has brought about a transformative shift within startup.niedersachsen, with the growth of innomatch serving as a prime testament to this.
Today, user registration and active engagement have soared, with the platform expanding to over 2,500 users in less than a year, and 126 newly founded startups in Lower Saxony alone in 2022.
A testament to the effectiveness and appeal of LoftOS as a leading software solution for government agencies.
On top of that, Kevin mentions that since getting on board LoftOS they have experienced the following:
- Subscriber Growth: The innomatch newsletter, a key communication channel, has attracted over 1,200 subscribers, affirming the platform's appeal and its capacity to engage and retain users effectively.
- Greater Visibility: innomatch has not only fostered a more streamlined and efficient process but has also amplified startup.niedersachsen's visibility significantly. At a major fair in Hannover, for instance, Kevin comments, a whopping 70% of discussions revolved around innomatch, reflecting the buzz and interest it has generated as a government technology solution.
Why did startup.niedersachsen Choose LoftOS?
startup.niedersachsen chose LoftOS as their platform of choice for several key reasons, as articulated by Kevin. Primarily, the competitive pricing strategy of LoftOS was highly attractive to the organization.
Plus, LoftOS's proven capability to effectively collaborate with government entities served as a significant advantage, showcasing its strength as a government IT solution.
This was bolstered further by LoftOS's strong commitment to data security - a vital consideration for any digital platform. Kevin recalled a past incident where they had to abruptly discontinue using another software due to data security concerns, underscoring the importance of this aspect.
The fact that LoftOS is German-based, adhering to stringent data protection laws, was a notable plus point that significantly influenced their decision.
LoftOS's intuitive design and flexible customization options allowed startup.niedersachsen to swiftly and painlessly import its extensive startup map database, providing a comprehensive overview of the startup ecosystem in Lower Saxony.
2 Speedfire Questions about LoftOS for Kevin
Q: What's one LoftOS feature you couldn't live without?
Groups and the Speed Dating function. It wouldn't work without it.
I got a lot of networks joining innomatch today because of these functions. But of course, when we've got a big event lined up, we use the event module, and we get 100 to 200 new users a day. Of course, that's big, highlighting the platform's versatility as a software solution for government agencies.
Q: Any advice for businesses looking to try LoftOS?
LoftOS is a great tool to build a community, to reach out to people and connect them. But be prepared to work with it. It's not going to walk on its own.
And...one more thing: don't build a platform on your own. It's way better to get a company that specializes in platforms like Innoloft than building software on your own. Otherwise, you’ll just drown.
The innomatch Experience - Empowering Connectivity with LoftOS
The innomatch journey with LoftOS sheds light on the transformative power of the right digital platform in revolutionizing a regional startup ecosystem.
It has seamlessly bound together all stakeholders - from startups and investors to everything in between - into a dynamic, interactive 'platform of platforms’ for the Lower Saxony region.
Now, it's your turn to experience the magic! Don't wait around while the world innovates.
Jumpstart your innovation journey with our easy-to-use regional innovation network template. Unleash the potential of your ideas, engage with your community, and bring your visions to life. Just like startup.niedersachsen did.
Join the innovation revolution and start using LoftOS today!
Government Digitalization Pioneers: Top 6 GovTech Experts in Germany You Need to Know!
In the landscape of GovTech in Germany, there's a new breed of innovators. They're not just techies; they're visionaries, eco-warriors, and procurement pioneers. If you're involved in government digitalization or regional development, this list is essential reading.
Curious? You should be.
In this article, we're spotlighting six key players who are redefining how we think about government and technology.
These experts don't just offer names and titles; they bring actionable insights and pioneering strategies to the table in the realm of digital governance. Whether you're a policymaker, a digitizer in the public sector, an entrepreneur, or an investor, their wisdom could be the catalyst for your next big move in the GovTech space.
Why Government Digitalization Matters
GovTech isn't just about technology; it's about improving the way our governments function and serve us. These innovators are at the forefront of that change in e-governance solutions, and following them and their work means you're staying ahead of the curve.
The Criteria
So, what makes these experts worth your attention? It's not just their impressive titles or academic accolades.
Our selection is based on this key points:
1. Insightful LinkedIn posts on GovTech topics: We're talking about posts that make you pause and think, not just scroll past.
2.Number of followers on LinkedIn: A strong following often indicates thought leadership and influence in the field of digital government initiatives.
3.Current and past working experience: Especially if they've founded or led a GovTech startup, that's a big plus.
We've selected individuals who are actively contributing to the GovTech field in meaningful ways. They're innovators, thought leaders, and most importantly, they're people who have actionable insights that can make a real difference.
Let’s see who they are!
Sebastian Gradinger - The Digital Transformer of Federal Administration
Sebastian Gradinger is more than just a name in the GovTech space; he's at leading digital transformation in Germany's federal administration. As a key player at the Digitalakademie, he's focused on equipping the federal workforce with the digital skills they need for the future to navigate the future of public sector digital transformation.
What’s Happening at Digitalakademie?
Sebastian is all about digital governance. At the Digitalakademie, he's part of a team that provides modern training measures to help the federal administration navigate the challenges of digitization. They offer everything from webinars to in-person seminars, making sure everyone's up to speed with the latest trends in e-governance solutions.
Why Should You Hit That Follow Button?
If you're looking to understand how digital transformation is affecting federal administration, Sebastian is your go-to guy. His insights can help you grasp the nuances of digital qualification and what it means for the future of government technology.
Want to Know More?
You can follow Sebastian on LinkedIn or check out the Digitalakademie's website for more on their programs and initiatives in government IT solutions.
Jonas Andrulis - The Brain Behind Europe's OpenAI Challenger
Jonas Andrulis is the Founder and CEO of Aleph Alpha, a German startup that's been dubbed "Europe's answer to OpenAI." With a focus on creating explainable and trustworthy AI, Jonas is a key is a key figure in shaping the future of government digitalization in the govtech arena,, especially when it comes to AI regulation and investments.
AI for the People, By the People
Aleph Alpha is all about making AI that's not just smart, but also transparent and ethical. This approach positions them as pioneers in developing government technology solutions that are both innovative and trustworthy. Think of it as AI you can actually trust. Jonas is leading the charge in creating AI solutions that governments can use responsibly, a crucial aspect of modern digital governance.
Why You Need to Follow This Expert
If you're into AI and how it intersects with government and ethics, Jonas is your man. He's not just building AI; he's shaping the conversation around its ethical use in governance. You'll want to keep tabs on his insights to stay ahead of the curve.
Want to Know More?
Jonas is pretty active in the AI community. You can follow his LinkedIn profile for the latest updates and thought leadership. For more in-depth stuff, check out Aleph Alpha's website where they delve into the applications of AI in government IT solutions.
Manuel Kilian - The Mastermind Behind GovMind
Manuel Kilian is the Founder and CEO of GovMind, a company that's at the intersection of technology, politics, government digitalization and societal change. With a diverse background in digital business models, investment management, and political roles, Manuel is the epitome of a multi-faceted leader.
Bridging the Gap Between Government and Innovation
GovMind aims to digitally transform the public sector by offering GovTech solutions that address a spectrum of public tasks. Imagine a world where bureaucracy is efficient, and public services are as user-friendly as your favorite app.
That's the vision Manuel and his team are bringing to life,pushing the boundaries of digital government initiatives. Want to dive deeper? Check out his Medium article on the complexities of Government Tech.
Why You Should Keep Tabs on Him
If you're intrigued by how technology can reshape government operations and societal structures, Manuel is your go-to expert. He's not just improving systems; he's reimagining how governments can operate in the digital age, contributing significantly to public sector digital transformation. And he's been recognized for it, contributing to platforms like the World Economic Forum and has also been featured in this LinkedIn article discussing the GovTech market's momentum.
Want to Know More?
Manuel is active in the GovTech and digital transformation communities. You can follow him on LinkedIn for the latest updates.
Sascha Soyk - The Procurement Pioneer
Sascha Soyk is the Founder and CEO of GovRadar, an online procurement platform that's changing how the public sector buys innovations. Based in Munich, Sascha is also a Commanding Officer at the Bundeswehr Reserve.
Making Government Shopping a Breeze
GovRadar is all about simplifying the procurement process for the public sector. Think of it as the Amazon for government purchases. Sascha is on a mission to make buying for the public sector as easy as online shopping. This vision was highlighted in an interview with Munich Startup.
Why You Can't Afford to Miss His Updates
If you're interested in how tech can streamline government operations, Sascha is a must-follow. He's not just creating a platform; he's shaping the future of public procurement. His work has even caught the attention of PitchBook, which provides info on GovRadar's valuation and funding.
Want to Know More?
Sascha is pretty active on Linkedin, where he shares updates on innovating public procurement. For more in-depth info, you can check out GovRadar's website .
Torsten Koß - Architect of Hamburg's GovTech Campus
Torsten Koß has been deeply involved in digital developments in Germany's public sector for over 30 years. He's the Director of Digital Transformation at Dataport, a key player in Germany's governmental digitalization. Dataport is committed to making the digital transition a success and works closely with local authorities and state governments.
Torsten has also been instrumental in the establishment of the GovTech Campus, which aims to foster innovation partnerships between the government and tech startups.
Building Bridges Between Government and Innovation
The GovTech Campus in Hamburg is all about creating a conducive environment for tech startups to collaborate with the government.This initiative is a prime example of how public sector digital transformation can be facilitated, ensuring that the campus serves as a hub for practical and sustainable innovation. His vision was highlighted in this Hamburg News article.
Why You Should Keep an Eye on Him
If you're interested in how government and tech can collaborate to solve real-world problems, Torsten is your go-to guy. His work is setting the stage for a new era of public-private partnerships in GovTech. Kommune21 also covered how the GovTech Campus is shaping up under his leadership.
Want to Know More?
You can stay updated by checking out Dataport's website and this press release from Hamburg's official website.
Carsten Klipstein - The Mind Behind GovTech Gruppe
Carsten Klipstein is a pivotal figure in government digitalization in Germany. As the CEO of GovTech Gruppe, an umbrella organization based in Bochum, Germany that's making strides in the GovTech sector. He's also the Managing Director of cosinex, one of the companies under the GovTech Gruppe umbrella.
Leading a Diverse GovTech Ecosystem
Carsten is steering GovTech Gruppe towards a future where public services and digital transformation go hand in hand. Under his leadership, GovTech Gruppe serves as a hub of innovation, focusing on everything from public services to digital transformation.
Carsten is at the forefront, especially in the realm of public procurement with cosinex. His efforts have not only earned an EU Commission award but have also been recognized in various publications like PresseBox and Kommune21.
Why You Should Follow Him
If you're keen on understanding the multifaceted world of govtech innovations, Carsten is a must-follow. He's not just a CEO; he's a thought leader in the GovTech space, with insights that can give you a fresh perspective on how tech is shaping government operations.
Want to Know More?
Carsten is active on Linkedin, where you can keep in touch with his posts. For more in-depth info, you can check out GovTech Gruppe's website.
And there you have it!
6 GovTech innovators who are not just shaping the future of Germany but setting the stage for global change government digitalization.
Whether you're a policymaker, a digitizer in the public sector, an entrepreneur, or just a curious mind, these are the names to keep on your radar. Follow them, engage with their work, and who knows?
You might just find the inspiration for your next big move in the GovTech space.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You're not just stepping into the future; you're shaping it.
And you're in good company.
Take the Lower Saxony Innovation Center, for example. They launched innomatch, a platform that enhances visibility and networking for innovators all across Lower Saxony, all powered by Innoloft’s No-Code Platform LoftOS.
As well as the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Action, and Energy of the State of NRW already leveraging LoftOS in the public sector showcasing a significant leap in digital government initiatives.
So, why not you? With LoftOS, you can build web applications effortlessly, no coding required. Take the first step today and create your free platform. Don't just be a spectator; be the GovTech innovator everyone's talking about.
Building a B2B Network in the Hearing Aid Industry: LoftOS's Role in Audoora's Success
Meet Audoora
Audoora, the brainchild of Nils Sonnenfroh and Sebastian Garcia Dennemark is a pioneering B2B network and marketplace in the hearing aid sector hailing from Cologne.
Originally conceived in 2020, Audoora came into being out of the need to improve the mainstream hearing aid industry by providing a more streamlined and transparent process for everyone involved. From manufacturers and audiologists to customers, Audoora's mission is to develop a B2B networking platform that simplifies the journey of finding and selecting the perfect aid.
In a matter of 3 years, they digitalized processes that relied on outdated product catalogs and sending orders via fax back and forth, which was (you guessed it!) incredibly time-consuming.
However, not everything was smooth sailing.
We chatted with Nils to learn more about how Audoora harnessed the power of LoftOS to build their B2B network and digitize their vision.
The Catalyst - Uncertainty Meets Creativity
Just as Audoora was poised to revolutionize the hearing aid industry, a series of unprecedented events threatened to silence their fight for change. With the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting their business operations and unexpected industry politics jeopardizing relationships with manufacturers, Audoora found themselves in dire straits.
Suddenly, by autumn 2021, their dreams of innovation were left without the support of their manufacturers, their lifeline in the market and crucial for their B2B network development, leading many to believe that Audoora had met its end.
A storm of uncertainty was brewing, and Audoora found itself in the eye of the tempest looking for a solution.
Nils tells us, they thought they'd run out of cash if they didn't change something.
The Problem - Putting Knowledge at the Forefront
As you can imagine after raising funds and hiring a full-fledged IT team having no cash inflow meant Audoora had to get creative.
They began seeking out opportunities within the industry, leveraging their IT skills to provide services to other businesses, which led them to gather lots of expertise crucial for their B2B network.
Acquiring this deep, domain-specific knowledge was paramount, as the hearing aid industry is traditionally a highly niche and specialized field.
Audoora now faced a significant challenge: To put this knowledge to work in a meaningful way that would not only demonstrate their continued relevance in the business but also create a robust and valuable network. They needed a platform, a hub, where they could consolidate all the collected information, providing a one-stop resource for everyone involved in the hearing industry.
The question now was, how could they efficiently and effectively do all of this, ultimately saving their business and creating a thriving community?
The LoftOS Solution - A Centralized B2B Network
Audoora’s goal of transforming the industry was well on its way, but they needed a unified platform that could help them do more than just revolutionize the way hearing aids were bought, sold, and distributed but also a one-stop hub for all stakeholders to share important industry information.
This is where LoftOS came into the game.
By integrating LoftOS into their workflow, Audoora was now able to consolidate all their accumulated knowledge into a single, B2B centralized network . This provided a seamless, user-friendly portal for all industry stakeholders to access critical information such as updated product catalogs, clean product data, online courses and invaluable industry news.
The Result - A One-Stop Shop for the Hearing Aid Industry
But LoftOS did more than just build a B2B network to simplify Audoora's processes.
In just under one month, LoftOS equipped their IT department with the tools to automate the collection and dissemination of industry news and events. This enabled Audoora to keep their new B2B network up-to-date in real-time, feeding essential information directly into their new platform, significantly enhancing their value proposition in the hearing aid industry.
This enabled Audoora to keep their network up-to-date in real-time, feeding essential information directly into their new platform, significantly enhancing their value proposition in the hearing aid industry.
Features like the LoftOS's "Events module" became an invaluable resource for Audoora, as they now host monthly events that provide insights into the most pressing issues in the industry.
For instance, the recent shift towards Over-The-Counter (OTC) hearing aids, which bypass the need for a medical exam, prescription, or fitting by an audiologist, has been a topic of much discussion.
LoftOS not only provided Audoora with a lifeline during a challenging period but also propelled them further than they had imagined possible.
if we wouldn't set LoftOS half a year ago, we wouldn't be here anymore - Nils Sonnenfroh
The foresight to adopt LoftOS significantly improved Audoora's image within the sector, making them the go-to platform for innovative thought leaders in the industry.
Why did Audoora Choose LoftOS?
When asked why LoftOS, Nils explained that it was all about putting the consumer first.
Audoora's primary goal is to ensure that their customers are the most satisfied in the market. They wanted to achieve this by offering a broad spectrum of products and services.
Through its collaboration with LoftOS, Audoora is able to offer its users all these services online, at their convenience, making the process of hearing aid comparison and acquisition smoother than ever before, transforming the traditional hearing aid market into a consumer-centric one.
3 Quick-Fire Questions about LoftOS for Nils
Q: What's one LoftOS feature you couldn't live without?
The 'Pages' module. You can create your own pages and set up everything the way you want it. It has the deep integration features we needed. The perfect use-case example is our hearing aid comparison tool. Everything is done for you, you just have to take care of the content.
Q: Any advice for businesses looking to try LoftOS?
LoftOS is an adaptable platform that requires your active involvement to truly shine. It's crucial to engage your users and create captivating content. Beyond its basic functionality, LoftOS's infrastructure allows for custom modules, so with a bit of engineering, you can tailor it to fit every need.
Q: How would you describe LoftOS to someone who's never heard about it before?
LoftOS lets you build easily and fast any kind of business platform you want. You can also really individualize it yourself if you want to have special functionalities.
The Audoora Experience - Empowering Connectivity with LoftOS
The journey of Audoora with LoftOS paints a vivid picture of how the right software can transform a business, and build a B2B network from scratch that can bind an entire industry and its stakeholders - from manufacturers, and wholesalers, to health insurance companies, audiologists and the end-users.
This dynamic platform has allowed Audoora to streamline its processes, provide valuable content to all its users, and foster an environment of connectivity, improvement, and mutual assistance. It has shifted the focus from a business-centric to a consumer-centric model, meeting needs and exceeding expectations.
Ready to transform your business? Start your journey with LoftOS today and experience the power of connectivity, just like Audoora did.
No Code vs Code Debate: 6 Key Reasons Businesses Prefer No-Code Development Platforms
You've heard the buzz about no-code development.
It's been hailed as the future of software, the solution to the developer shortage, and the democratizer of technology. But is it really all that it's cracked up to be?
Can you truly build robust, scalable applications without writing a single line of code?
The answer is a resounding yes.
In this article, we'll explore the no code vs code debate and give you the top 6 reasons why businesses are choosing no-Code platforms and why you should too.
So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into the fascinating world of no-code development.
Understanding No-Code Development
What is No-Code Development?
No-code development might sound like a magic trick, but it's far from an illusion.
In simpler terms, it's a method of building software applications without writing a single line of code. Think of it as assembling a piece of IKEA furniture. You don't need to be a master carpenter; you just follow the instructions, and voila, you've built a bookshelf!
No-Code or Low-Code? What’s The Difference?
The terms "no-code" and "low-code" are often used interchangeably, but they are not quite the same thing. Low-code development involves using a visual interface to create applications, but it also includes writing some code.
No-code development, on the other hand, does not require any coding skills whatsoever.
While both approaches offer benefits, no-code development is the better option for business users who do not have any coding skills.
The Rise of No-Code Technologies
No-code technologies have been on a steady rise, much like a well-baked sourdough. And just like sourdough, they've become a staple in our digital diet. The reason?
Well…
They've democratized the process of software development, making it accessible to everyone, not just those who speak the language of code.
In the past few years, no-code technologies have evolved from a niche concept to a mainstream solution, adopted by businesses of all sizes across the globe. According to Gartner, Inc’s report, the global market for low-code development technologies is projected to total $26.9 billion in 2023, a 19.6% increase from 2022.
The Power of No-Code Development
As you can imagine, no-code development platforms have revolutionized the way businesses develop software applications.
They have made it possible for business users to create applications that meet their specific needs without relying on external developers.
No-code platforms also have a significant impact on a business's bottom line. According to recent data, an average business can increase in value by $4.4 million by using no-code applications.
No-code development platforms offer a range of benefits that traditional coding cannot match, including speed, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
What are No-Code Development Platforms?
So, what exactly is a No-code development platform?
Think of it as a digital construction kit.
These platforms provide a visual development environment where you can design, build, and launch applications by dragging and dropping elements, connecting them together, and configuring their properties.
It's like playing with a high-tech version of LEGO, but instead of building a castle or a spaceship, you're constructing a web application or a mobile app.
The Advantages of No-Code Development Platforms
Here are 6 reasons why no-code is reshaping the digital landscape, highlighting the benefits no code platforms offer.
1.No-Code Accelerates Development
In the fast-paced digital world, speed is of the essence. No-code platforms are like the express trains of the software development world—they get you to your destination faster.
In fact, no-code and low-code platforms are reported to be 10 times faster than traditional software development. Moreover, according to a global survey by Statista, they are 40-60% more efficient in delivering the final product.
This impressive speed and efficiency are part of what makes no-code platforms such a compelling choice for modern businesses.
By eliminating the need for manual code writing, no-code platforms significantly speed up the app development process. They also offer tools for automating business processes, saving businesses valuable time and resources.
2.Reduces Time-to-Market
One of the most significant benefits of no-code platforms is the reduction in time-to-market for new applications.
Traditional development methods can take months or even years to go from concept to launch. With no-code, you can often have a working prototype within days and a fully functional application in weeks.
As opposed to the usual long 6-9 months that it takes to build software.
This speed can give businesses a crucial competitive edge in today's fast-paced digital marketplace.
3.Streamlines Business Processes with Automation
No-code platforms often come with powerful automation tools.
These can be used to streamline a wide range of business processes, from data entry and customer service to inventory management and invoicing.
This means you can reduce errors, increase efficiency, and free up your staff to focus on more strategic, value-adding activities.
4.Speeds Up Digital Transformation
Speed is another reason why no-code wins the no-code vs code debate. Digital transformation is no longer a luxury. It's a necessity for businesses wanting to stay competitive.
No-code development platforms play a crucial role in this transformation.
They enable businesses to quickly build and adapt applications to meet changing market demands, without the need for extensive technical expertise, large development teams or spending large sums of money.
5.Supports Effortless Transition
No-code development is like switching from manual to automatic transmission; you still get where you need to go, but the journey is smoother and less complicated.
It's about focusing on the destination - creating impactful, user-friendly applications - while the no-code platform handles the technical journey.
It's a faster, more efficient route to your goal, that puts you in control without the roadblocks of traditional coding.
This ease of use and accessibility is not just about making life easier for existing developers. It's about opening the doors of app development to a whole new demographic - the citizen developers.
6.Empowering Citizen Developers
In today's digital age, the demand for tech solutions is skyrocketing, but the supply of skilled developers isn't keeping pace. Europe, in particular, is facing a significant IT skills gap, with over 44% of people in the EU lacking basic digital skills.
No-code platforms are stepping in to fill this gap. They're empowering citizen developers - individuals without formal coding training - to build functional applications.
By reducing the learning barrier and speeding up digitalization, no-code platforms are not just transforming businesses; they're democratizing the digital landscape.
The Future is No Code Development
No-code isn't just a trend, it's an essential part of the software development future.
As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more businesses adopting no-code development platforms.
And this isn't just us guessing. It's clear from how fast no-code technology is changing the game
In fact, before the end of 2023, the year-over-year growth rate of the no-code/low-code market is projected to hit 40%, this just goes to show how quickly businesses are embracing no-code technology and the bright future it has.
Getting Started with No-Code Development Platforms
If all this talk about no-code vs code has you excited to give it a try, you're in luck. Getting started is as simple as choosing a platform that fits your needs, signing up, and diving right into creating.
And if you're looking for a platform that goes beyond the basics and enables you to create complex and extensive B2B web 2.0 applications, you might want to consider LoftOS.
Why Choose LoftOS for No-Code Development?
With our LoftOS, you're not just building simple pages; you're creating interactive, user-centered applications that facilitate collaboration, information sharing, and network connectivity - all essential features in today's digital business landscape.
But what does this mean for you?
Imagine being able to digitize your corporate innovation management, reduce effort, improve collaboration, and increase transparency.
LoftOS makes this possible.
Take, for example, Deutsche Telekom, one of our customers in the telecommunications and information technology service.
They used LoftOS to manage their startup program "TechBoost" and build up a corporate startup ecosystem. From the application process to meetings and full support for the startups, everything was handled digitally within the platform.
This not only streamlined their operations but also allowed them to tap into the power of their ecosystem, leading to more innovative solutions and stronger collaborations.
With LoftOS, you too can harness the power of your ecosystem and accelerate your business development. Ready to take the leap? Try LoftOS for free today .
5 Unbeatable Reasons Why You Need a B2B Matchmaking Software
Business events,events whether virtual or in-person are no longer just about attending speeches and grabbing freebies. They've evolved into dynamic hubs of collaboration, filled brimming with potential partnerships and innovative ideas.
The catalyst? B2B matchmaking software.
They're transforming the way we seize networking opportunities network, making every interaction count.
These platforms are not just a trend, they're a revolution, redefining how business owners connect, collaborate, and achieve their best business goals.
But are you still relying on traditional networking methods?
If you're serious about grabbing new business opportunities, we think it's time to step into the future. And this article will give you 5 reasons why you should use a matchmaking platform and how LoftOS can help you get started.
What is B2B Matchmaking?
Ever wondered how you could find the perfect business connections, just like you'd find the perfect date?
Welcome to the world of B2B matching.
Where software for matchmaking is changing the way businesses connect and collaborate
In the simplest terms, B2B Matchmaking is like a dating service for businesses.
Think of it as a super-efficient way to find, meet, and talk to new collaboration partners in short, one-to-one talks, either at hybrid event or a virtual event.
How Does the B2B Matchmaking Process Work?
The event networking and matchmaking process is a strategic approach to connecting businesses with compatible interests and goals.
When you sign up for a B2B matchmaking platform during the onboarding process, you provide information about your company, including your products, services, and what you're looking for in a potential partner.
The platform then uses this information, along with your preferences to match with potential partners, to suggest valuable business connections.
Once matches are made, the platform facilitates communication between the parties, allowing them to explore potential business relationships.
This can be done through messaging, virtual meetings, or even face-to-face interactions at events. The goal is to streamline the networking process, making it more efficient and effective for all involved.
Now, you might be thinking “isn’t this networking?”
Well kinda, but not quite...
B2B Matchmaking vs Networking: What's the Difference?
Although they might sound like the same thing, there’s a small difference.
Networking at a business event often feels like a game of chance. You mingle, you chat, and you hope to stumble upon someone who can bring value to your business.
It's like fishing in a vast ocean, hoping to catch a big one.
B2B Matchmaking, on the other hand, turns that game into a strategic operation.
For example, say you're organizing events, by taking advantage of a matchmaking software, You have everything centralized in a B2B matching event platform that connects you with the right people all the time.
Pretty much effective attendee networking, if you ask us.
Let’s talk a bit about that in our next point.
What are Business Matchmaking Platforms All About?
At their core, a B2B matchmaking software is like a digital event planner, dedicated to making your matchmaking event a business networking success.
Basically, the software takes into consideration priority.
These platforms understand the specific needs, interests, and goals of each event participantattendee.
They work tirelessly in the background, like a digital concierge, to find the most suitable business contacts within your event's network, taking into account the attendees' preferences to match them with the best possible connections.
You're also notified about these potential matches, with the highest score on top, helping you facilitate meaningful connections . and ensuring that attendees are well-informed about the event you're organizing.
It's a proactive approach to effective networking environment, where the platform does the heavy lifting, and you reap the benefits.
Benefits of Online B2B Matchmaking Platforms
An advanced B2B matchmaking software takes into consideration a variety of factors when suggesting potential matches, including industry, size, location, and the specific goods and services offered.
This targeted approach ensures that the connections made are relevant and valuable.
Here are three key benefits of using an online B2B matchmaking platform:
Broader Horizons
An online business matchmaking app allows you to expand your reach beyond geographical limitations.
With virtual business matchmaking, you can connect with potential partners from all over the world, opening up new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Precision Partnerships
The best b2b matchmaking platforms use sophisticated algorithms to suggest matches based on your specific criteria.
This means that the connections you make are more likely to be relevant and valuable to your business.
A matchmaking software offers a targeted approach to networking, saving you time and effort in the long run. The app offers organizers the opportunity to create highly focused events that bring together businesses with aligned interests.
Streamlined Networking
B2B matchmaking platforms offer a streamlined approach to networking, making it easier than ever to use business connections for growth and collaboration.
The process is highly efficient, as the platform handles the initial legwork of identifying potential matches based on your specific criteria. This saves you time and effort that would otherwise be spent on extensive research or cold outreach.
Who Can Harness the Power of B2B Matchmaking Software?
But B2B matchmaking platforms are not just exclusive to event organizers or event professionals.
- Industry clusters
- Digital hubs
- Economic development agencies
Can also become matchmakers and Can also harness the extraordinary capabilities of matchmaking platforms.
They not only facilitate efficient event matchmaking before or during, but also even long after a B2B event.
These platforms can help anyone in the business world to create a vibrant community around their brand, matching buyers and seller profiles based on preferences, like the LoftOS platform allows with the most customizable business matchmaking software.
Regardless of your industry or role, if you're in a position that requires frequent networking and collaboration, a B2B matchmaking platform can be your next game-changer.
Now let's talk about the top 5 benefits below.
Reason 1: Increase Business Match Efficiency
When you build your own B2B matchmaking app you tap into the power of proactive planning.
Why?
Well....having a single event networking solution to plan, execute, and manage your event communication streamlines your operations, making it more manageable.
You're now in the driver’s seat, enabled to connect with attendees even before the event, share updates, and make last-minute changes without having to juggle multiple tools or liaise with separate agencies.
It simplifies your workflow, improves your event management process, and offers a seamless user experience for your attendees.
Reason 2: Cultivate Community Beyond the Event
Let's face it, the buzz of a successful event is exhilarating.
But what happens when the lights go out and the attendees go home?
Does the networking stop? Not if you're using a B2B event networking platform.
A key benefit of matchmaking platforms is their ability to foster a sense of community that extends far beyond the confines of the event.
Think about having the ability to nurture ongoing relationships with participants, build loyalty and enhance long-term ROI all at the same time.
By creating a vibrant community within your platform, you're also significantly reducing the effort and cost of attracting participants for future events.
Your events no longer exist in isolation but are part of a larger, dynamic network where potential participants are already engaged and invested.
At the same time the platform maintains an open line of communication with participants, beyond just the event. This not only provides opportunities to promote other offerings but also opens the door for upselling, thereby boosting revenue.
Reason 3: Unlocking the Power of Digital Marketplaces
B2B matchmaking platforms also serve as a digital storefront for organizations to present their distinctive offerings in a collaborative ecosystem made for virtual networking.
Regardless of what field you specialize in, a B2B matchmaking software allows organizations to showcase their unique partner offerings, services, or initiatives, thereby paving the way for lasting partnerships and collaborations.
Be it an impactful social initiative, an innovative tech solution, or a new business model, platforms like LoftOS provide a dynamic marketplace for organizations to share industry information with a receptive and relevant audience.
As a LoftOS platform admin, you can easily assign buyer and seller profiles based on the information provided by your users upon onboarding to create a more structured environment and truly offer a targeted networking experience.
In essence, a business match is not just about 'selling,' it's about 'showcasing' and 'connecting.'
So, if you're still on the fence about B2B matchmaking platforms, this is a feature you don't want to miss out on.
Reason 4: Get Pre-event Insights and Connections
Another intrinsic advantage of a matchmaking platform is the provision of insightful pre-event data.
This unique feature allows event participants to get an overview of other attendees even before an starts.
Having this information at your fingertips allows you to do your homework and prepare comprehensive strategies to connect with the most suitable and promising contacts.
Also, B2B matchmaking platforms such as LoftOS support you in arranging these valuable connections. With an efficient and intelligent algorithm in place, these platforms work to match organizations with top matches for each attendee based on their specific needs and interests even after the event.
This proactive approach not only enhances the event experience but also significantly boosts the chances of meaningful interactions and productive networking.
Advantage 5: Harness Data-Driven Insights
In the digital age, data is power.
...And nowhere does this hold truer than in the world of B2B matchmaking software.
You can distill data into actionable steps, helping you understand attendee behaviors, identify trends, and tailor strategies to meet specific needs.
This ability to effectively leverage data keeps you ahead of the curve, enabling you to deliver personalized experiences that resonate with your audience, keeping them engaged and invested.
Remember: Organizations that can leverage data effectively are the ones that stay ahead of the curve!
Business Matchmaking Features To Keep in Mind
When choosing a B2B matchmaking solution, there are several key features to look for.
We're just going to list the top 3, to keep it brief.
First and foremost, the platform you choose should have a robust matchmaking algorithm that takes into account a wide range of factors when suggesting potential matches.
Also, the software provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for you to get an overview of your matches for easy management.
Another important consideration is the ability to set your own matchmaking rules. This allows you to fine-tune the matching process based on your specific preferences and criteria.
For example, you might want to prioritize matches based on location, industry, or company size.
But we take flexibility a step further ahead.
LoftOS offers the most customizable business matchmaking system allowing platform admins to create their own matching "recipe".
That means they're not stuck with system generated pairs, admins, if they so desire, they can override the algorithm and handpick their own matches as well.
Optimize Your B2B Matchmaking Service with LoftOS
Now, why would you want to choose LoftOS for your B2B Matchmaking platform?
Let's put it this way: LoftOS covers it all.
With LoftOS's comprehensive suite of features, you have the unique advantage of hosting your events within a robust community. You can also take advantage of our intuitive "Pages" feature to create eye-catching event landing pages that generate buzz and enhance brand awareness.
Whether you're organizing webinars, online events, conferences, workshops, pitches, or 1-on-1 networking events, our "Events" module has got you covered. You can take it a step further with our "Forms" module to implement surveys seamlessly, eliminating the need to juggle multiple tools, and offering time-saving evaluation options.
But we don't stop there!
LoftOS takes networking to a new level with event-based speed-dating formats that offer automatic matchmaking, both online and offline.
That means our intelligent system continually identifies the best-fitting business contacts within the network, generating leads and discovering partners for you.
Match, Network, Collaborate The LoftOS Way
Wondering what is an example of a good matchmaking service?
Look no further.
As you can imagine, LoftOS can be used in a variety of use cases.
Our customers span from business hubs and regional economic development agencies to research institutions and trade fair organizers.
We like to say "If you can think it, you can do it with LoftOS."
Let’s delve into two compelling success stories that illustrate the transformative power of LoftOS in action: innomatch and E-World.
innomatch Network: Event Networking Supercharged
innomatch, established by the Lower Saxony Innovation Center, is a shining example of LoftOS's versatility and effectiveness. The platform, designed to bolster the innovation ecosystem of Lower Saxony, harnesses the power of LoftOS to create Innomatch, a dynamic network for startups, investors, and industry players.
Partnering with LoftOS allowed Innomatch to amplify visibility, streamline connectivity, and foster robust networking, paving the way for innovation to thrive within Lower Saxony.
An integral part of their success story was the ingenious application of a "Speed-Dating" box. This idea empowered stakeholders to organize a speed-dating matchmaking service with ease, bringing together a myriad of industry participants for quick, efficient networking.
To learn more about how they're using LoftOS you can experience the innomatch community here.
Matchmaking for Your Next Event? Why Should Your Exhibitors use a B2B Matchmaking Tool?
E-World Community: Event Matchmaking Software Used Right
E-World, Europe's leading trade fair for energy and water presents an impressive success story of LoftOS's transformative power.
With our solution, E-World crafted an engaging digital community for the energy industry with over 10,000 members, our biggest community so far!
E-World easily transformed their trade fair into a digital powerhouse.
This is what they achieved:
- A comprehensive visitor overview
- Provided seamless attendee communication
- and even hosted speed-dating with automated matchmaking that pairs exhibitors and attendees together while enhancing the trade fair experience
By leveraging the power of LoftOS they seamlessly integrated an exhibitor marketplace, and fostered an engaging community, pre-and-post fair, through digital events with industry experts and news updates.
See the E-World online community in action here.
The Best Business Matchmaking Software is as Flexible as You
As you can see, when the event is over, community interaction continues.
B2B matchmaking software like LoftOS offer the flexibility and features to accommodate diverse event formats, and the potential to elevate your user's experience into a dynamic journey
So why wait? Optimize your networking game with LoftOS today. It's sharp. It's effective. It's built for you!
A Quick Guide to Transform Your Business with Innovation Management Software
Innovation is the lifeblood of any successful business. It is the key to staying ahead of the competition, meeting customer needs, and driving growth.
However, managing innovation can get complicated, especially for organizations that lack the necessary tools and resources.
This is where innovation management software comes in.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of no-code platform solutions for innovation management, providing decision-makers and professionals with practical guidance and insights to help them leverage these tools effectively.
From ideation to implementation, this article covers all aspects of innovation management software, ensuring that readers gain a deep understanding of the subject matter and its potential to transform their organizations.
What is Innovation Management?
Innovation management is the process of managing innovation within an organization
It involves identifying opportunities for innovation, generating and developing ideas, choosing and carrying out the best ones, and measuring the results.
Innovation management is essential for businesses that want to stay competitive and relevant in today's fast-paced and ever-changing business environment.
The Importance of Innovation Management
The importance of innovation management extends across all industries. From technology and healthcare to education and finance, the ability to innovate and adapt is a key determinant of an organization's success.
As markets become increasingly competitive, businesses must continually innovate to:
- Differentiate their products and services
- Meet evolving customer needs
- Drive growth
The Evolution of Innovation Management
Over time, the approach to innovation management has evolved. While it was once a linear process, today's innovation management is often iterative, involving ongoing experimentation, learning, and adaptation.
This shift reflects the complexity and uncertainty of the modern business environment, where change is the only constant.
Strategies and Methodologies for Innovation Management
There are different strategies and methodologies for innovation management. Some organizations adopt a top-down approach, where strategic direction is set by senior leaders and innovation initiatives are driven from the top.
Others adopt a bottom-up approach, encouraging all employees to contribute ideas and participate in innovation. Many organizations use a combination of both approaches, recognizing that innovation can come from anywhere.
Regardless of the specific approach, effective innovation management requires:
- A supportive culture
- Clear processes
- The right tools
This is where innovation management software, like LoftOS, can play a crucial role.
But we will talk about that a bit later.
Let us first dive into innovation management software.
What is an Innovation Management Software?
Innovation management tools are software solutions that help organizations manage their innovation processes.
These tools provide a range of features and functionalities that enable businesses to optimize their innovation processes, boost collaborative efforts, and drive smarter, data-informed decisions.
Benefits of Innovation Management Software
Innovation management software offers a range of benefits for businesses of all sizes and industries.
Here are some of the key benefits:
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
Innovation management software can help businesses simplify the innovation journey from idea to implementation, reducing the time and effort required to generate and develop ideas.
For example, a company could use LoftOS to automa te the idea submission and evaluation process, allowing them to quickly identify and act on the most promising ideas.
This can lead to increased efficiency and productivity, allowing businesses to bring new products and services to market faster.
Improved Collaboration and Communication
Innovation management software provides collaboration and communication tools that enable teams to work together more effectively.
These collaboration features could be used to facilitate brainstorming sessions, allowing team members from different departments or locations to contribute ideas and feedback.
This leads to better idea generation and development, as well as improved decision-making.
Enhanced Creativity and Idea Generation
Innovation management software also provides a range of ideation tools that can help businesses generate more and better ideas.
These tools often incorporate advanced natural language processing analysis, enabling businesses to identify unique ideas that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Better Decision-Making and Risk Management
Innovation management software also comes equipped with data analytics and reporting tools that enable businesses to make better decisions and manage risk more effectively.
These tools can help businesses identify trends and patterns, evaluate the potential impact of different ideas, and make smarter decisions.
Competitive Advantage and Market Differentiation
Innovation management software can also help businesses differentiate themselves from their competitors by enabling them to deliver innovative products and services that meet customer needs more effectively.
This can lead to increased market share and revenue growth.
Empowering Innovation with LoftOS
Let's shift our focus to LoftOS, our no-code innovation management software solution that's designed to supercharge your innovation processes.
LoftOS is not just about managing innovation, it's about creating a vibrant, interactive hub where your innovation thrives.
Now, let's dive deeper into the unique features that make LoftOS stand out:
Unleashing Collective Intelligence
Dive into a sea of startups and innovation communities with just one click. With our innovation management software, you cast your challenges wide, uncovering new ideas, technologies, and business opportunities that align with your strategic goals.
Streamlining Innovation Workflows
Forget about cluttered processes. Our project management and workflow automation tools digitize and centralize your innovation ecosystem. We’re all about turning chaos into a well-oiled innovation machine.
Fostering Collaborative Cultures
Break down the silos. Our collaboration and communication tools build a culture of cooperation among teams, startups, and external contributors. This isn't just teamwork - it's a fusion of ideas and talents, sparking meaningful connections and creating a community that innovates together.
Harnessing the Power of Data
Turn data into your secret weapon. Our data analytics and reporting tools help you track and measure the success of your innovation initiatives. You can now make smarter decisions that drive your innovation forward.
Building Your Digital Ecosystem
Why not create a digital community that's uniquely yours? With LoftOS you can engage internal stakeholders, external partners, and suppliers with customizable profiles and databases. It's not just about digitizing your ecosystem, it's about creating a vibrant, interactive hub where innovation thrives.
Innovation Management Software vs. Traditional Methods: Which Comes Out on Top?
Have you ever wondered how innovation management software stacks up against traditional methods of managing innovation?
Let's take a closer look:
Traditional Methods of Managing Innovation
Traditional methods often involve manual processes, such as brainstorming sessions, physical suggestion boxes, and face-to-face meetings.
While these methods can be effective, they also have their limitations:
- Time-consuming: Manual processes can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, slowing down the pace of innovation.
- Limited collaboration: Traditional methods often limit collaboration to those who can be physically present at meetings or brainstorming sessions.
- Difficulty tracking and evaluating ideas: Without a centralized system, tracking and evaluating ideas can be challenging and disorganized.
Innovation Management Software
On the other hand, innovation management software like LoftOS offers a more efficient and effective alternative:
- Efficiency: Automation features streamline the innovation process, saving time and resources.
- Enhanced collaboration: Online tools enable collaboration across different locations and time zones, bringing together a wider range of perspectives.
- Easy tracking and evaluation of ideas: A centralized system makes it easy to track and evaluate ideas, ensuring that no good idea falls through the cracks.
So, when it comes to managing innovation, why stick to traditional methods when a more efficient and effective solution is available?
Make the switch to innovation management software and supercharge your innovation process.
Choosing the Right Innovation Management Software
Choosing the right innovation management software can be a daunting task, This is especially true for businesses that are new to the technology. To make this easier for you, we've included some key factors to consider when selecting a software solution:
Assessing Your Organization's Needs and Goals
Before selecting a software solution, it is important to assess your organization's needs and goals. This can help you identify the features and functionalities that are most important for your business.
Evaluating Software Features and Capabilities
When evaluating innovation management software solutions, it is important to consider the features and capabilities that are most important for your business. Think of ideation tools, project management and workflow automation, collaboration and communication tools.
Considering Budget and Pricing Models
It is also important to consider your budget and the pricing models offered by different software vendors. Some vendors offer free versions or free trials, while others require a subscription or a one-time fee. For example, with LoftOS, you can create your free platform with just your email.
Researching Vendor Reputation and Customer Support
Finally, it is important to research the reputation of different software vendors and their customer support offerings. This can help you select a vendor that is reliable, trustworthy, and responsive to your needs.
Implementing Innovation Management Software
Implementing innovation management software is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and preparation.
Here are the key steps to consider:
Planning and Preparation
Before implementing innovation management software, it is important to develop a clear plan that outlines your goals, timelines, and resource requirements. This can help you ensure that the implementation process goes smoothly and that you achieve your desired outcomes.
Training and Onboarding
Once you have selected a software solution, it is important that you provide training and onboarding to your team. This can help them understand how to use the software effectively and maximize its benefits.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Finally, it is important to monitor and evaluate the success of your innovation management software implementation. This can help you identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to your processes and workflows as needed.
Best Practices for Innovation Management Software
To get the most out of your innovation management software, it is important to follow best practices, such as:
Encouraging Employee Participation and Engagement
Create a culture that encourages idea sharing and collaboration. This can include providing incentives for idea generation, recognizing and rewarding innovative ideas, and creating a supportive environment for innovation.
Establishing Clear Goals and Metrics
Establishing clear goals and metrics is essential for measuring the success of your innovation management initiatives. This can include setting targets for idea generation, tracking the progress of innovation projects, and evaluating the impact of different ideas.
Continuously Improving and Adapting the Software
Continuously improving and adapting your innovation management software is essential for staying ahead of the competition and meeting changing customer needs. This can include incorporating feedback from users, evaluating new features and functionalities, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.
Facing Challenges with Innovation Management Software?
While innovation management software can provide numerous benefits, it's not uncommon to face some challenges along the way. But don't worry, we've got you covered.
Let's explore some of the most common challenges and their solutions:
Challenge 1: Building an Innovation Culture
Creating an innovation culture can be a steep hill to climb for many organizations. It requires a shift in mindset, empowering employees to share ideas, collaborate, and challenge traditional ways of thinking.
Solution: Start by defining what innovation means for your organization and communicate this vision clearly to all employees. Encourage open dialogue, celebrate creative thinking, and accept that not all ideas will be successful. This will help to create an environment where innovation can flourish.
Challenge 2: User Adoption
Are your team members hesitant to use the new software? User adoption can be a significant challenge when introducing any new technology.
Solution: Provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to help users understand the benefits and functionality of the software. Highlight how it can make their work easier and more efficient. Also, consider implementing the software in phases to allow users to gradually adapt to the new system.
Challenge 3: Measuring ROI
Not sure how to measure the return on investment (ROI) of your innovation management software? Demonstrating the value of your innovation efforts can be tricky, especially in the early stages.
Solution: Use the data analytics and reporting features of your innovation management software to track key metrics, such as the number of ideas generated, the time saved on project management, or the revenue from new products or services developed through the platform. Over time, these metrics can help demonstrate the ROI of your innovation management software.
Let’s Wrap it Up
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation management isn't just an option. It's a necessity. With the right software, you can supercharge your innovation process, boost collaboration, and make strategic decisions with confidence.
It's about time we stop merely talking about innovation and start actively enabling it.
Ready for transformation? Get started with our Enterprise Open Innovation template . We tailor-made this template to connect you with a vast network of innovators and startups from day one.
Let's drive your innovation forward together!
Technology Commercialization: Accelerating Technology Transfer in Europe with Innovative Strategies
In the heart of Europe, where centuries-old universities stand as bastions of knowledge and innovation, a digital transformation is taking place. LoftOS, our innovative platform, is leading the charge in revolutionizing the technology commercialization process.
The world of technology transfer - the process of translating scientific findings from academic research into practical applications - has been stuck in an analog era, where processes are manual, time-consuming, and often involve physical paperwork and face-to-face meetings.
As Deloitte's report on the future of tech in Europe outlines, the region has often been viewed as a tech wasteland, struggling to keep up with the pace of modern innovation.
It's a world characterized by intricate negotiations, a maze of stakeholder interests, and a pace that, in many cases, can't keep up with the speed of modern innovation.
These outdated methods can lead to delays, miscommunication, and a lack of transparency. They also make it difficult to manage and track the progress of tech transfer initiatives, which can result in missed opportunities and wasted resources.
Is There a Better and Faster Way for Technology Transfer?
Enter LoftOS, our bold response to this challenge. A digital platform designed to revolutionize technology transfer, LoftOS is here to shake up the status quo.
In contrast to the traditional methods, LoftOS digitizes technology commercialization, making them faster, more efficient, and more transparent.
It eliminates the need for physical paperwork, and provides a centralized platform where all stakeholders can collaborate and track progress.
It's not just about navigating the complexities of technology transfer.
It's about rewriting the rules.
In this article, we'll explore how LoftOS is turbocharging technology commercialization in Europe, turning the traditional model on its head.
We'll share success stories of those who've already made the leap to digital, and show you why it's time to leave the old-school approach behind.
The Complexities of Technology Transfer: A Modern Challenge
In the realm of academia and industry, technology transfer is a critical yet complex process. It's the bridge that transforms the research community results into innovative products, services, and processes.
Yet, it's a bridge that's often fraught with challenges.
From the intricate dance of negotiations between researchers, technology transfer offices, industry partners, and policymakers, to the challenges of commercialization and regulatory compliance, the complexities are manifold.
These complexities are further compounded by the traditional approach to technology transfer, which often lacks the efficiency, speed, and effectiveness that today's fast-paced world demands.
To better understand these complexities, let's delve into some of the key challenges faced in research transfer:
Understanding Technology Transfer Challenges
Balancing Interests: Navigating the diverse interests of stakeholders, including the researcher community, industry partners, and policymakers, can be challenging.
Commercialization Challenges: Transforming research into a marketable product requires significant resources and expertise.
Funding Constraints: Securing adequate funding for both research and its subsequent commercialization is often a hurdle.
Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to a complex landscape of laws and regulations related to intellectual property and technology transfer can be daunting.
Time Constraints: The technology transfer process can be lengthy, often spanning years from initial research to final product.
Lack of Expertise: Universities may lack the necessary business and commercialization expertise to effectively transfer technology to the market.
Cultural Differences: Bridging the gap between the academic and business worlds can pose challenges in technology transfer.
But, imagine if there were a more efficient method to navigate these complexities – one that harnesses the power of digital transformation to streamline the research transfer process.
That's where LoftOS comes into play.
The Power of Digital Transformation: Enter Technology Transfer Platforms
In an era where digital transformation is reshaping every industry, the field of technology transfer is no exception.
The digital revolution is not just about adopting new technologies; it's about fundamentally changing how we operate and deliver value.
This is not just about replicating an existing service in a digital form, but to use technology to transform that service into something significantly better. It's not just about understanding the potential of technology, but about understanding how it can change business for the better.
So, how exactly is LoftOS making a difference in technology commercialization?
Success Stories: Accelerating Technology Commercialization Success with LoftOS
At LoftOS, we're thrilled to witness our esteemed partners achieve remarkable feats with our technology transfer platform.
The most prominent research institutions across Europe have harnessed the power of LoftOS to revolutionize their technology transfer initiatives.
With our cutting-edge software, communication is more efficient, and the commercialization process is quicker than ever before. Together, we're helping to turn research into practical applications and fostering innovation
Let's take a closer look at how two trailblazing institutions have redefined the tech transfer landscape with LoftOS at the helm.
Technical University Darmstadt: Pioneering the Future of Tech Transfer
Technical University Darmstadt, a beacon of innovation and scientific prowess, has harnessed the power of LoftOS to revolutionize its tech transfer process. With their digital innovation platform, HIGHWAY, they've been able to provide a plethora of support services, from connecting with companies to assisting in patent applications, and even facilitating the creation of spin-offs.
The result? A streamlined, efficient, and highly successful tech transfer process that's setting a new standard in the industry.
Fraunhofer Institute for Mechatronic Systems Design: Engineering the Future
At Fraunhofer IEM, the future is being engineered today.
With LoftOS, they've been able to build a thriving digital community centered around Advanced Systems Engineering, as well as streamline both internal and external communication.
All while effectively managing and showcase their projects.
The result? A more efficient tech transfer process that improves their ability to bring innovative ideas to life.
These success stories are a testament to the transformative power of LoftOS. They highlight how our platform is not just a tool, but a catalyst for change, driving innovation, and progress in the tech transfer landscape.
But these are not isolated incidents.
They're part of a larger trend, a digital revolution that's reshaping the tech transfer process. And with LoftOS, you too can be a part of this exciting journey.
LoftOS: Unleashing a New Era of Technology Transfer
Picture this: A brilliant European research institution has just made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the medical industry.
However, as expected, they face numerous challenges in transferring their research from the lab to the market. Complex negotiations, lack of transparency, and slow commercialization processes threaten to hinder the innovation's impact.
This is where LoftOS enters with our innovative tech transfer platform.
Unparalleled Communication and Transparency
Imagine if this institution had access to a platform where they could effortlessly collaborate with stakeholders, including technology transfer offices, industry partners, and policymakers.
LoftOS makes this possible by providing a centralized communication hub that keeps everyone on the same page.
With LoftOS, researchers can easily share updates, monitor progress, and track the tech transfer process at every stage. This enhanced transparency, a stark contrast to the opaque and cumbersome traditional methods, not only increases efficiency but also fosters trust among all parties involved.
Technology Commercialization Made Easy
Now, let's consider the technology commercialization process.
The researcher we spoke about above, needs to connect with the right industry contacts to bring their life-changing discovery to the market right?
LoftOS also simplifies this journey by directly linking them with industry demand.
Thanks to our innovative matching and networking features, the researcher's proposal reaches the most relevant people within our shared digital ecosystem.
This accelerated commercialization process maximizes their chances of success and ensures that groundbreaking discoveries reach those who need them the most.
Empowering Research Centers to Unleash the Full Potential of Their Innovations
From connecting with potential industry partners to simplifying the commercialization process, LoftOS helps you unlock the full potential of your discovery by providing a comprehensive platform where you can manage all aspects of the tech transfer process.
It's a simple but powerful solution that not only simplifies the technology commercialization process but also drives innovation and progress at an unprecedented rate.
Remember, the power of digital transformation lies not just in adopting new technologies, but in using these technologies to fundamentally change how we operate and deliver value.
With LoftOS, we're not just digitizing the tech transfer process; we're transforming it. And in doing so, we're opening up a new era of tech transfer - one that is more efficient, more transparent, and more effective than ever before. This is the power of digital transformation in technology transfer.
Closing Thoughts
We envision a smarter and more efficient way to bring cutting-edge research and technology to society.
At Innoloft, we’re on a mission to revolutionize technology commercialization and make this vision a reality. With our technology transfer platform, LoftOS, researchers now have the tools they need to maximize the impact of their discoveries.
At this very moment, many leading universities and research centers have already embraced LoftOS – why not join them? Create your free platform now and experience firsthand how LoftOS can enhance collaboration within your team and optimize your innovation management process.
Effortless Website Design Without Code: Explore Our Latest 'Pages' Update for Instant, Stunning Sites
Unleashing creativity should never be a hassle.
Instead, it should be as easy as envisioning the final product and seeing it come to life, piece by piece.
In the spirit of that vision, we are thrilled to introduce our newest innovation, the 'Pages' module.
Think of 'Pages' as your digital canvas. A place where your ideas take form and your vision materializes.
But it's more than just a creative space—it's a tool designed to empower you to build your own website without code quickly, effortlessly, and in a way that mirrors your brand's uniqueness.
Because, at Innoloft, we believe in providing tools that not just meet your needs, but anticipate them.
Unveiling 'Pages': The Power to Master Web Design Without Code is in Your Hands
The 'Pages' module is all about putting you in control.
It's not just about having a digital footprint — It's about molding an environment that genuinely mirrors your brand and connects with your audience.
'Pages' turns your LoftOS experience into an expansive, custom, and dynamic digital space. It enables you to create any type of webpage you envision without a single line of code.
Be it a comprehensive product description page, a visually appealing homepage for your bustling B2B community portal, or an engaging educational resource, 'Pages' is your key to unlocking diverse opportunities.
Tailoring 'Pages' to Fit Your Industry Needs
In every field, there are unique challenges and specific needs when it comes to digital communication and presence. Your new no-code website builder 'Pages' is designed to adapt to these distinctive requirements, providing a versatile solution regardless of your industry.
Let's explore how 'Pages' can be tailored to some key sectors and their specific use-cases.
Educational and Research Institutions
If you're an admin in a university or research institution, 'Pages' is your tool for effective communication.
Share resources with students or showcase groundbreaking studies to the global academic community. Craft interactive and informative pages packed with crucial information, detailed reports, and engaging visual aids, all styled to align with your institution's branding.
Community Management
As a community manager in a B2B company gearing up for a webinar, 'Pages' provides the power to design unique event pages without code.
Embed event details, speaker bios, and cultivate a sense of anticipation. You can even link out to external registration forms if needed. Foster excitement and enhance user experience, all within your control.
Economic Development Organizations
Public development offices or economic development organizations can benefit from 'Pages' to share crucial economic updates and policy changes.
Craft clear, easy-to-navigate webpages packed with essential information. Keep the public and specific businesses well-informed and up-to-date.
Corporate Innovation Management
In corporate innovation management, when preparing to launch a new product or service, 'Pages' is your ally.
Design sleek, dedicated pages complete with crisp product images, detailed descriptions, and clear call-to-actions. Stay in the driver's seat of your digital projects, keeping up with the fast-paced corporate world.
Pages: The No-Code Website Builder You've Been Waiting For
You asked for more code-free web development tools. We delivered.
'Pages' was designed with your needs in mind.
We've built 'Pages' as a tool that grows and evolves with you.
We've seen our customers use LoftOS for an array of use cases, not just for community management, but also for building entire web solutions.
We've heard your calls for more flexibility and greater control over your digital projects, and we've responded.
From creating personalized landing pages for your LoftOS Events, Programs, and Groups, to designing webpages tailored to your specific business needs, 'Pages' puts the power of custom codeless website building right at your fingertips.
As your business expands and your needs change, 'Pages' will be there every step of the way, providing you with the flexibility to adapt and thrive in the dynamic digital landscape.
Web Building Without Coding: Fast, Simple, Efficient
We didn't just create another product update.
We delivered a solution that empowers you to create, manage, and scale your web presence, all within LoftOS.
Our goal with 'Pages' was to make it straightforward for even new users to create professional-looking websites with ease.
With a few clicks, you can customize page layouts, and add new sections such as images, video, logos, headers, and text fields.
Let’s look at what you can do with ‘Pages’.
Transform Your Web Building Process with 'Pages'
In a world where your digital presence often serves as an introduction, being able to craft and tailor that first impression is vital.
You need a website builder that's intuitive, versatile, and adaptable.
With 'Pages', you're not just creating a webpage—you're crafting an experience. By offering a variety of customization options, 'Pages' lets you build not just visually pleasing, but also with functionality at the forefront.
Here's Why 'Pages' Matters:
Customer Independence:
No more waiting for tech teams to make minor changes to your webpage.
With 'Pages', you're in the driver's seat. Update your pages whenever you want, however you want.
Versatility:
'Pages' offers a wide range of customization options.
From headers and feature sections to call-to-actions, you're only limited by your imagination.
Adaptability:
Want to hide your platform header for a more website-like browsing experience? 'Pages' lets you do that. Need to add a new navigation entry? It's just a few clicks away with 'Pages'.
Personalization:
With 'Pages', each webpage you build can be as unique as your business. Add logos, images, videos, and more to truly make each page your own.
Building Your Webpage Without Coding: A Quick Step-by-step Guide
Let's dive into how you can take full advantage of 'Pages' to create, manage, and customize your landing pages and more.
Step 1: Find Pages
First, head over to 'Admin' in your platform, click on 'Content management', and then 'Pages' to get started.
From there, click the "Create Page" button at the top right corner and then we can get started.
Step 2: Getting Started
Upon creating your new page, you'll be requested to input a page name, an optional page description and a URL path. Once you are ready click on 'Create Page'.
You'll then be presented with a blank page. Here's where the fun begins!
Step 3: Customize Your Page Design
On the left side, you'll see various templates you can choose from, as well as additional customization options.
Such as page layout, and sections with different content types such as text, logos, call-to-action buttons, images, or videos.
On the right side, you can see the edit area where you can modify and customize each section in the page to your liking. The choice is yours.
Step 4: Publish Your Page
Once you are done customizing your page, go ahead and click on 'Save' at the top right corner of the page. You're now just a few clicks away from having a fully functional webpage up and running that reflects your brand and connects with your audience.
You easily see how visitors would look at your page by clicking on the 'Open' button. You're good to go!
Harnessing the power of 'Pages' is as easy as following these steps. Now, you're not just a part of the digital transformation—you're driving it.
FAQs: All You Need to Know about 'Pages':
At Innoloft, we believe that clear and concise communication is key to customer satisfaction. So, let's address some of the most frequently asked questions about our new 'Pages' module.
Q1: What is 'Pages'?
'Pages' is our new module that allows you to build your own webpages without code within minutes. It comes with templates for different sections like headers, features, call-to-actions, and more, which you can directly choose and modify according to your needs.
Q2: How can I access 'Pages'?
You can access 'Pages' right from your LoftOS dashboard. You can find 'Pages' right under 'Content management' in the admin section.
Q3: Is Pages free to use?
Yes, want everyone to be able to design a website without coding. So,'Pages' is included in all our plans, even the free one. However, please note that the free and starter plans feature LoftOS co-branding. If you need custom sections, those are available with our Premium and Custom plans.
Q4: Can I customize the navigation path for my page?
Absolutely, you can! When you create a new page, 'Pages' automatically generates a page path (URL) based on the given page name.
However, you're not stuck with this initial path. You're free to edit it as you wish.
Just remember, only regular letters, numbers, and hyphens are valid characters for the URL. This feature ensures your pages can have URLs that are both meaningful and search-engine friendly.
Your Next Steps to Codeless Web Building Mastery
There you have it. With 'Pages', you're crafting unique digital experiences that truly represent your brand.
This powerful update amplifies the power of no-code, to connect with your audience effectively.
Now, it's your turn to experience 'Pages'. If you're already a LoftOS user, dive right in and start exploring. If you're new here, start building your web presence with 'Pages' today — Create your own LoftOS platform for free now .
Either way, the journey to mastering web building without code starts with a single step. Are you ready to take it?
Build vs Buy Software Dilemma? Here Are 5 Convincing Reasons Why Buying Wins Every Time
In the fast-paced realm of technology, the build vs buy software debate resembles an exhilarating game of chess. The players? Tech leaders across various industries. The stakes? Undeniably high.
Yes, build vs buy software, is a pivotal decision that could shape your organization's future, either fueling innovation or potentially hindering growth.
Let's be honest...the allure of custom-made solutions is hard to resist, offering tailor-made precision and the satisfaction of forging your own path.
But is the journey truly worth it, especially when considering the potential obstacles and resource-intensive nature of building software from scratch?
In this article, we'll explore a more efficient and often overlooked alternative: buying software.
The Dilemma: Build Vs Buy Software?
To build your own software or not to build? That is the question.
In this complex debate, it's crucial to grasp the implications of each choice. Building software offers customization but demands significant resources and time.
According to survey results, nearly a third (32%) of developers said that they spend up to a quarter of their time fixing software bugs instead of writing code.
This obviously impacts efficiency and productivity.
On the other hand, buying provides a ready-made solution with faster results. Whereas building is more like reinventing the wheel.
... and that might not be the best approach if you're looking to stay on top of the competition.
Remember: you want to leverage what’s already been perfected.
Let's cut through the noise and delve into the heart of the matter and present five compelling reasons why purchasing software might just be the smarter choice for your organization, saving you valuable time and resources in the process.
Reason 1: Cost-Effectiveness
Money, money money. This reason alone could end the build vs buy software debate easily.
Well, according to research by GoodFirms, the average cost of getting software developed is $36,000. But at times the price tag for a custom solution can go up to $120,000.
Is your budget laughing at your custom software dreams already?
Let's face it, we all love the allure of bespoke items, but when it comes to software, 'custom-made' could quickly translate to 'cash-drain.'
The cost of developing a software solution from scratch can sometimes feel like an endless black hole of expenditure.
It's not just the initial build costs you need to consider, but the ongoing expenses too.
Ah, the 'run' costs, those sneaky little devils…
They're like those unexpected guests at a party that you didn't account for but are now guzzling down your expensive wine.
To put it in perspective, run costs can look like this: maintenance, patches, improvements, and even the transition to new tech.
The fun part? They're recurring, sticking around for as long as your software does.
In stark contrast, when you buy Off-the-Shelf software, you're not just purchasing a product; you're securing a service.
A pre-existing solution not only comes at a fraction of the cost, but it also includes future updates and improvements, most often as part of your package.
It's like having a prepaid buffet of technological treats at your fingertips.
Reason 2: Time Efficiency
Want to race with time, or just beat it?
The clock is ticking, and in the digital world, every second counts. Building custom software might seem enticing, the ultimate race against time.
But is it worth the sweat, the long nights, dealing with slow development teams and the persistent uncertainties?
Let's pause (I know, time is running) and consider the alternative for a minute.
Buying pre-built software solutions isn't just about getting a product off the shelf. It's about buying time.
Precious time that your team can invest elsewhere.
It's about bypassing the exhausting developmental phase, the iterative cycles of revisions, and the grueling testing and debugging sessions.
Oh, and when the average custom software development project takes about 4.5 months the time you save isn't just abstract; it directly translates to operational efficiency.
Think about it this way: While your competitors are still embroiled in custom software development, you could be making strides in other critical areas of your business, getting a leg up in the competitive landscape.
So, why race with time when you can simply outpace it?
This takes me to my next question…
Reason 3: Access to Expert Support
Why wrestle with software glitches when you can have your own software pit crew?
Picture this - you're cruising through your business operations, and suddenly, a software glitch appears on the horizon. If you've built your software, it's all hands on deck, scrambling for a solution.
But if you've bought it? Well, you've got a whole pit crew of experts ready to get you back on track in no time.
Buying software doesn't just provide you with a product, but also a team of skilled professionals who know the product inside out.
They're just a call or email away, ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of any issue you may encounter, sparing you the frustration of troubleshooting complex software problems.
And with this in mind, you know that choosing between custom and pre-built software is the smartest choice.
Think I'm exaggerating the possible complications?
Have a glance at these 10 instances of software development mishaps. They underscore the challenges that can come with going it alone and how crucial it is to have an expert team at your disposal.
This kind of support can prove invaluable, especially in times of crisis.
This takes me to my next point.
Reason 4: Future-Proofing with Regular Updates
As you navigate through the fast-paced world of business, staying current is not a luxury—it's a necessity.
But, when you decide to build your software, this becomes a relentless cycle of catching up.
Every innovation, every new trend, requires significant time and resources to integrate into your existing structure.
Often, this means you're patching yesterday's technology into today's needs.
On the flip side, when you buy software, you're opting into a dynamic ecosystem that evolves with the times.
You're no longer chasing trends; you're embracing them.
Software vendors invest heavily in R&D to continuously improve their products and offer regular updates that ensure your business stays relevant and competitive.
They do the heavy lifting of integrating the latest technology, security patches, and user-friendly features into the software, so you don't have to.
Ready to embrace the future, or stuck patching the past?
Reason 5: Customizability and Scalability
Last but not least, there's an age-old myth in the build vs buy debate that software bought off-the-shelf comes in a rigid 'one size fits all' package, leaving no room for personalization.
But, like most myths, this one is also far from the truth.
Today's software solutions are designed with adaptability at their core.
The best software vendors understand that no two businesses are alike and offer customization options to cater to your specific needs.
They offer plug-and-play integrations, adjustable modules, and a wide range of user-defined features that allow you to tailor the software to fit your business like a glove.
But what about tomorrow?
The business world is not static, and neither are your needs. The software you buy must be capable of growing with your business.
Modern software solutions offer scalability that ensures the software can accommodate your business's growth without skipping a beat.
Be it increasing your team size, expanding into new markets, or adding new services, scalable software solutions are built to evolve with your business, instead of becoming a relic of the past.
So, the question remains: is your software growing with your business, or just growing old?
Build Vs Buy Software: 5 Critical Questions to Ask Yourself Before Deciding to Build or Buy Software
So, you've considered the benefits of off-the-shelf software and weighed the reasons. But before you make that leap and decide on buying or building software, take a moment to introspect.
Here are 5 critical questions you should ask yourself to guide you further in this decision-making process:
1.What Problem Are You Addressing?
Keep it focused - buy or build software that directly solves a pressing issue, not one that just seems appealing.
2.Does the Software Match Your Future Plans?
The software should not only meet current needs but also align with your long-term business goals and expansion plans.
3.Can You Manage the Extra Work of Building Software?
Remember, building software means added responsibilities from development to maintenance. Can your current resources handle it?
4.How Important is Customization?
Measure the need for custom features against the wide functionalities and flexibility offered by modern off-the-shelf solutions.
5.How Will You Measure Success?
Define clear, measurable benchmarks before starting to ensure you can gauge the progress and success of your software investment.
The Final Round-Up: Ready to Buy Your Ticket to Efficiency?
As we reach the end of our enlightening journey through the build vs buy software debate, it's clear that the scales tip heavily in favor of buying.
Now, we know what you might be thinking - "Of course, you'd say that, you're a software company!"
and you wouldn't be wrong.
But our reasoning goes beyond our bias.
When you buy software, you're not just purchasing a tool - you're buying back your time, saving your money, and making a solid investment in the growth and scalability of your business.
That's a whole lot of bang for your buck.
And it's not just any software we're talking about.
Here at Innoloft, we provide a robust solution that takes all the hassle out of managing your community or network.
With our easy-to-use, highly customizable, and scalable software, you can stop wrestling with the decision to build or buy and start focusing on what you do best: growing your business.
So there you have it! You're now armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
What are you waiting for? Let's steam ahead to success together!
How to Build a B2B Community: The Ultimate Guide With All The B2B Community Building Strategies You Need
Want to build thought leadership and strong relationships with potential customers in your industry?
A B2B community can help.
Communication channels, engagement strategies, virtual events and collaboration opportunities - all important landmarks dotting your bustling B2B metropolis.
But what happens when you're building a B2B community without a solid digital strategy?
You're left juggling different tools, battling data silos, and trying to keep everyone engaged while you're pulled in a hundred different directions. It's like trying to navigate a ship through a storm all alone without a compass or map.
That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you build a community around your products and services the right way.
Inside, you'll learn how to build a B2B community to increase brand awareness, generate new leads, connect stakeholders, and digitize services. You'll also learn important tips for engaging users and cultivating meaningful connections that increase your customer lifetime value.
Plus, you'll get insight from our team on how to use LoftOS to create an engaging user experience.
Let's dive in!
What Is a B2B Online Community?
When we say "B2B Online Community", you might picture a bustling digital town square where businesses congregate, exchange ideas, discuss common challenges, and collaborate on solutions.
That's not far off, but it's just scratching the surface.
An online B2B community is a vibrant network where businesses coalesce around shared interests, common objectives, or a particular industry.
But here's the key-point: A well mapped out community building strategy is not just about networking, but about creating a hive of interactions, a pulsating hub where information, knowledge, opportunities, and relationships grow organically.
A branded community is a digital realm where your business isn't just a faceless entity but:
- an active participant
- a contributor
- and a thought-leader.
It's where your brand develops genuine, valuable relationships with other businesses, industry professionals, and potential partners.
Sounds pretty neat, right?
Why Your B2B Business Needs a Community?
Online communities aren't a new thing.
But in today's digital age, every B2B company needs to consider building a community beyond social media.
A strong sense of community can provide numerous benefits for businesses, from improving customer support and customer experience to even attracting new customers.
A community that supports its members offers a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with their B2B customers and create a loyal following.
Creating a space for them to share their expertise with one another, ask questions, and provide feedback, businesses can gain valuable insights with one another to improve their products or services.
Plus, communities can help businesses establish thought leadership in their industry.
By providing a platform for businesses to share their knowledge and insights, communities can help companies position themselves as experts in their field. This can lead to increased brand awareness, trust, and credibility among potential new members.
How Do You Build a B2B Community?
Building a thriving B2B community in 2024 starts with defining your business objectives and creating a community building strategy.
That includes finding ways to:
- Encourage engagement by asking questions
- Cultivate and strengthen connections
- and bringing together business owners and key stakeholders in one place.
The key to building a successful community is to create an environment where people feel welcome, engaged, and valued.
If you are hearing all of this for the first time, it might sound a bit complex. We understand.
But don't worry.
Choosing a platform like LoftOS make it 10X faster for you, as you are provided with all the tools and features that will allow individuals to connect, share feedback and ideas, and even share user-generated content.
With the steps outlined in this article, everything should be easy to implement and get you started in no time.
Are all B2B Communities the Same?
Well, much like the vast landscapes of the offline world, B2B communities also come in different shapes and sizes.
For instance, B2B companies tend to create customer communities centered around their product and customers, to boost product engagement and satisfaction.
On the other hand, clusters, hubs, and associations often focus on their members, aiming to improve services and communication through digitalization.
Some communities may be exclusive, catering only to specific industries or professions. In contrast, others are more inclusive, welcoming any business to join and participate in the exchange.
Then there are communities differentiated by how they operate - communities centered around events, knowledge sharing, collaborations, or even mutual growth and support.
In essence, it's all about the goals and the participants.
B2B vs B2C: What's the Difference?
Unlike B2C communities where the interactions usually center around consumer products or services, B2B communities revolve around more complex, industry-specific topics and objectives. It's not just about connecting businesses; it's about fostering meaningful, long-lasting professional relationships and driving mutual growth.
So, in a nutshell, B2B communities are your digital round tables, where every business brings something to the table and collectively they cook up solutions, innovations, and mutual growth.
Sounds like something you’d want to be a part of? Read on!
Why B2B Community Building is Your Secret Weapon?
Taking on the B2B market can be daunting, especially when you're presenting a new product or service.
How do you get businesses and other stakeholders to see your value and turn them into loyal customers?
That's where the magic of online B2B community building comes into play.
Let me give you 3 reasons to answer the "Why":
1. A Collaborative Arena for Stakeholders 🤝
Imagine your community as a dynamic roundtable where stakeholders can:
- Engage in constructive dialogues and debates
- Share their expertise and insights
- Co-create solutions to common challenges
Your community isn't just a communication platform; it's a vibrant think-tank brimming with collective intelligence.
2. Ecosystem Engagement, Amplified 🔊
Deepening Relationships 🤝: Online communities cultivate deeper ties among stakeholders. It's a space for learning, exchanging ideas, and advancing common goals.
Boosting Collaboration 🤲: When stakeholders feel heard and valued, they're more likely to collaborate actively. An online community is a perfect platform to foster this sense of mutual respect and cooperation.
Building a Strong Network 🌍: A thriving community can turn passive participants into active contributors. They'll gladly advocate for the ecosystem, amplifying its reach and influence.
Reducing Silos 🏗️: Online communities can break down barriers. By providing a space for open communication, they can keep members engaged and foster a sense of unity.
3. Insight-Driven Innovation 🔍
Your onine B2B community can be a wellspring of inspiration for continual improvement and innovation. It gives you a glimpse into:
- The evolving needs and aspirations of the ecosystem direclty from those that use your product
- Emerging trends and best practices
- A feedback loop for refining your initiatives
An online B2B community isn't just an extension; it's an indispensable catalyst that impacts every facet of your organization.
Need more reasons?
What are the Benefits of Building an Online B2B Community?
B2B communities provide a platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge, making it easier for customers to find valuable resources and expertise.
First, here's some compelling data to back this up.
According to First Round's State of Startups 2019 survey, a staggering 80% of founders reported that B2B community building is important to startup success. And what's more, over 28% said it's a startup's most valuable marketing channel and critical to their success.
Now, let's dive into 4 benefits of building an online B2B community:
1.Innovation Hotspot 🚀:
A B2B community serves as a powerful hotspot for brainstorming, innovating, and co-creating. It's a platform where industry leaders, bright minds, and progressive organizations can come together to share best practices and solve common challenges.
2.Membership Retention 💼:
A well-managed community can enhance stakeholder satisfaction, leading to higher retention rates. By fostering a sense of belonging, you build a relationship with an engaged network of committed participants, not just casual observers.
3.Continuous Improvement 👷♀️:
A B2B community isn't static—it's a living, breathing entity that evolves with its members' contributions. Their shared experiences and feedback are instrumental in refining and advancing your programs and initiatives.
4.Growth Catalyst 🌱:
A thriving community becomes the go-to place for like-minded organizations, attracting potential members and expanding your reach. The shared experiences within the community serve as compelling testimonials for your cause.
So, it's clear that an online community isn't just a 'nice-to-have'; it's a 'must-have' in today's B2B landscape.
The question is - are you ready to build yours?
7 Questions to Answer Before Starting to Build an Online Community
But before you get to building your B2B community, let's answer some important questions to ensure you're on the right track.
1. What's Your Community Vision? 🤔
You want to know what the end goal is and how your community today will benefit your business and stakeholders. Is it about creating an exclusive space for sharing industry insights or a platform for collaborative product development?
2. Who Are Your Members?👥
Who are you building this community for? Knowing your target audience will help you create a community that meets their needs and expectations.
3. What's Your Community Structure?
📏 How will your community and its members be organized? This includes defining roles and responsibilities, deciding the mode of communication within the community (forums/chat etc), setting rules & regulations for participation, and more.
4. Who Is Your Community Manager? 🙋♀️
Successful B2B communities often have a dedicated community manager who oversees the day-to-day operations and ensures the community aligns with the community goals. This person is responsible for building personal relationships with members, encouraging them to share their experiences, and managing the support team. Consider who will take on this crucial role in your community.
5. What Benefits Does It Bring to Your Users? 🤝
What does your community provide? Whether it's exclusive content, networking opportunities, or support, it's crucial to provide value that keeps members coming back.
6. What Resources Can You Allocate? 💼
Building a thriving community requires time, effort, and sometimes even financial resources. Be realistic about what you can afford to commit.
7. What's Your Plan for Moderation? 🏛️
A well-moderated community ensures productive interactions and mitigates any potential issues. You should have a plan for enforcing community rules and dealing with conflicts.
5 Tips to Make Your Online B2B Community Thrive
Now that we've got you thinking about your B2B community, let's dive deeper and explore some insider tips directly from the engine room of LoftOS.
Our team of expert Customer Success Managers has distilled their rich community building experience into actionable insights to help you manage and grow your online B2B communities no matter the use-use. They share innovative ways to engage members, foster collaboration, and ensure your community thrives.
Here are 5 key takeaways for you:
1. Onboard and Empower Your Team 🤝:
As the architect of your community's success, it's crucial to bring your colleagues on board. Inspire them to contribute, exchange ideas, and promote healthy discussions. Their active engagement can turn your B2B community platform into a vibrant knowledge exchange hub. Remember, a thriving community starts with a harmonious team.
2. Cultivate a Flourishing Entry Path 🌱:
Ensure a smooth and engaging journey for every new member. Continuously provide resources, training, and guidance to ease their transition. It's not a one-and-done thing, it's an ongoing mission. By doing this, newcomers will swiftly find their place and actively participate, adding fresh energy to your community.
3.Transferring is Transforming 🔄:
Reflect on your existing tasks and processes. Which can be moved to your community platform? This not only streamlines your operations but also gives community members more opportunities to engage. It's about transformation - taking the old, reinventing it, and making it part of your thriving community.
4.Be There, Be Active 🚴♂️:
Regular engagement is the heartbeat of a thriving community. Use tools like our News Module to broadcast updates or the Offers Module to share unique opportunities. Don't just build the platform; be an active part of it.
5. Harness Analytics for Growth 📊:
Use LoftOS's robust analytics and data insights to monitor your community's engagement levels. These metrics can help you identify growth opportunities and areas needing improvement, ensuring your community continues to evolve and flourish.
A Secret Community Building Strategy: Let’s talk LoftOS
Are you still wondering how to build a B2B community on your own? Let us stop you right there.
Have you tried LoftOS? Imagine a platform that makes community management and customer engagement as easy as a stroll in the park, regardless of your technical expertise.
LoftOS is your all-in-one community management solution, tailored specifically to B2B needs. It's like having a Swiss Army knife for community management - from member management, and insightful analytics, to event management, and networking.
The best part? It's scalable.
As your community grows, LoftOS is right there with you, adapting to your needs without requiring any complex upgrades or overhauls.
So, why wait? Step into the future of community management with LoftOS. We can't wait to welcome you.
But hey, don't just take our word for it. Let's explore how LoftOS has empowered these B2B communities to thrive and drive meaningful connections.
Real-life Success Stories: B2B Community Done Right
Ready to see LoftOS's magic in action?
Feast your eyes on these three compelling case studies from varied spheres - a hub b2b community, a trade fair community, and an entrepreneurship initiative. See how LoftOS's versatility adds value across different communities.
digitalHUB Aachen: Supercharging Communities through Digital Transformation
Say hello to digitalHUB Aachen, a powerhouse that's turbocharging their community engagement using LoftOS! With a thriving network of over 1568 members, they've created a buzzing hive of collaboration between startups, IT SMEs, and established companies.
The platform is a one-stop hub for effortless communication, effective resource matching, and seamless integration of additional services like room booking and job portals. Plus, they're nailing it at managing focus groups and events! The result? An energized and interconnected ecosystem that's advancing together. Intrigued?
While the digitalHUB Aachen Community is exclusive to members, you can still discover more about their exciting initiatives on their website. Get inspired by their journey and see the LoftOS magic in action!
E-world: Elevating Trade Fairs into Thriving Online Communities
As one of the leading energy and water industry trade fairs in Europe, E-world has harnessed the power of our platform to transform the trade fair experience.
Their community of over 10,000 members (our largest yet!) benefits from superior preparation tools for the physical fair, ongoing networking opportunities, and a wealth of knowledge exchange.
The E-world Community isn't just an add-on to the trade fair; it's a digital revolution that drives visitor satisfaction and loyalty!
Ready to see what a modern trade fair community looks like? Get a glimpse of the E-world Community in action.
University of Koblenz: Bridging the Gap Between African Entrepreneurs and European Opportunities
From the campus of the University of Koblenz to the vibrant startup scene of Africa, LoftOS is powering connections and opportunities.
The university utilizes their LoftOS-powered St Africa community as a one-stop-shop for e-learning courses tailored for African entrepreneurs.
With over 670 members, the platform doesn't just stop at education. It facilitates valuable B2B networking and collaboration by connecting these African startups with European companies and investors.
Want to see entrepreneurship education and networking seamlessly coming together? Check out how StAfrica is building a startup community across continents with LoftOS.
Quick Recap: Your B2B Community Building Blueprint:
Congrats! If you've read this far.
If you just skimmed for a TL;DR, This is what you need to remember:
🎪 Community Impact: B2B communities are not an accessory, but a fundamental part of your organization's growth strategy.
⚡ Ecosystem Engagement: They foster stronger relationships with your ecosystem stakeholders, turning them into active participants and advocates.
💡 Plethora of Insights: These communities are rich sources of insights for your organization, helping you keep pace with evolving needs and trends.
🎯 Effective Community Management: Ensuring regular activity, fostering a culture of collaboration, onboarding as a continuous journey, transferring tasks for transformation, and utilizing analytics form the backbone of a thriving community.
🚀 LoftOS, Your Community-Building Ally: With features that facilitate all aspects of community management, LoftOS is your ideal partner in the community-building journey.
📚 Real-life Success Stories: Whether it's a hub like digitalHUB Aachen, a trade fair like E-world, or a startup initiative by the University of Koblenz, LoftOS communities are thriving across diverse sectors.
Create your Own B2B Online Community
Well, there you have it!
A comprehensive guide on how to build a B2B community.
Now it's your turn. Following the steps outlined, you should be good to go.
Remember, the first step is often the hardest, but with LoftOS by your side, you're already one step ahead.
So, why not give it a try?
We're confident you'll love what you see, and we're excited to support you every step of the way, ready to turn challenges into victories. Try LoftOS for free, and let's create incredible communities together, shall we?
Citizen Developer Revolution: Harnessing No-Code Platforms for Digital Innovation in Europe
No-Code is a term buzzing across the digital landscape, transforming the realm of software development as we know it. But what exactly does it mean? How is it empowering the ordinary person and reshaping businesses?
And more importantly, what's in it for you?
In short, the daunting maze of traditional software development, with its intricate processes and prolonged timelines, is replaced by a straightforward, accessible path. No cryptic jargon, no waiting for months on lengthy development projects, just pure creativity and innovation at your fingertips.
Welcome to the world of No-Code, a landscape where you don't just witness digital transformation, but actively shape it.
Ready to unlock your potential as a citizen developer? Put that coffee down, lean in, and join us as we journey into the extraordinary world of no-code development.
Introducing No-Code Platforms: The Citizen Developer's Superpower
Before we begin, what is No-Code anyway?
To make things easier: No-code platforms are tools that empower individuals with little to no programming experience to build custom applications, websites, and digital solutions without writing a single line of code.
By harnessing the power of intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-built templates, and visual builders, anyone can become a developer.
This democratization of technology creation levels the playing field, allowing businesses and individuals alike to innovate faster and more efficiently, without being held back by coding barriers.
That means ordinary citizens can now tap into their hidden potential and transform into digital superheroes.
Europe's Digitalization Challenges: The High Stakes
But why do we need No-Code?
As you might've guessed, the answer lies in the challenges Europe is facing in its digital transformation. There's an ever-growing demand for IT solutions, but a shrinking pool of technical talent. This imbalance creates a complex situation for businesses.
Think about it: Delayed projects, higher development costs, and in some instances, completely stalled digital transformation efforts.
However, no-code platforms promise a way out of this conundrum. By empowering individuals with no programming experience to build custom applications, citizen developers help address the workforce gap and speed up digital progress.
While some warn of a looming crisis, we see an opportunity for innovation.
We envision a landscape where the task of digital transformation doesn't rest solely on the shoulders of an exclusive tech elite.
Instead, it is a collective effort, fueled by the very individuals who stand to benefit from the change.
Let's explore how no-code platforms can spark this digital revolution.
From PowerPoint Pros to No-Code Ninjas: A New Vision for the Workforce
A few decades ago, mastering PowerPoint was a novel skill. Today, it's commonplace. Imagine a similar leap where every individual, regardless of their tech proficiency, is creating complex digital solutions.
That's the potential of no-code platforms.
This transformative technology isn't just filling a workforce gap. It's shifting our work culture and broadening the horizons of innovation. With No-code, you're an IT whiz, a problem-solver, and a digital innovator.
No more waiting for the cavalry to come, no more being at the mercy of the pace of IT agencies. With No-code, the power to transform, innovate, and disrupt is democratized, and accessible to all who dare to envision a brighter digital future.
Innoloft's No-Code Mission: A Revolution in the Making
Innoloft's bold proposition aligns with this vision. We believe in making IT everyone's business, not by throwing you into the deep end, but by providing an intuitive no-code platform that empowers you to create sophisticated solutions – no coding required.
We envision this shift in perspective as fundamental.
We believe in an accessible, inclusive digital landscape where everyone contributes to the digital revolution. This isn't about turning everyone into an IT professional; it's about making IT an accessible tool for every professional.
No-code is your ticket to becoming a driver of digital transformation. Your superpower is to create value, solve problems, and bring ideas to life. That's why we designed LoftOS, our no-code platform, to empower non-coders with the tools they need to accelerate their digital transformation.
The LoftOS Edge: A League of Its Own in the No-Code Revolution
In the no-code arena, LoftOS is not just a player—it's a game-changer. It is redefining the rules, setting a new standard in the world of no-code platforms.
Yes, not all no-code platforms are created equal. Sure, they all allow you to create applications without coding but they often lack the capacity to construct intricate solutions.
With LoftOS, citizen developers are not just building simple apps or landing pages. They are empowered to create complex Web 2.0 solutions like networks, marketplaces, or internal tools — all without writing a single line of code.
Each of our LoftOS users has already ditched the month-long development projects that drain resources and delay results and embraced the transformative power of LoftOS, turning their visions into tangible results that surpass their greatest expectations.
Who's Using LoftOS?
So, who's using LoftOS, you ask? Well, it's really anyone who's ever dreamt up a big, bold web-based solution for their business yet is hampered by a lack of programming skills.
While we celebrate everyone, we've seen our platform particularly resonate within communities and networks, where users in the public and semi-public sectors — think economic development agencies, clusters, tech transfer offices of universities, and more — use LoftOS to bring their networks into the digital age.
Fun fact: A good chunk (30% to be exact) of Germany's state governments have us on their desktops. We're very proud of this achievement.
Building a No-Code Future: Your Next Steps
As we stand at the brink of a No-Code revolution, the future is in your hands, literally.
With tools like LoftOS, the power to create, innovate, and revolutionize is no longer the sole privilege of coders. It belongs to all of us. To you.
So go ahead, explore the edges of your imagination and build something extraordinary. Don't let anything stand in your way, not coding barriers, not time constraints or resource limitations.
Embrace this newfound superpower and become a citizen developer as we transform Europe's digital landscape.
Dive in, innovate, and let your ideas shape the future. Create your free LoftOS platform today.
How Our Recent 1 Million Seed Funding Round is Shaking Up the No-Code World
Imagine this: You've got a ground-breaking idea. A digital solution that could revolutionize the way your organization operates. It's all there in your mind, just waiting to take form. And then, reality hits: lengthy proposals, sky-high budgets, and IT agencies that promise the world, but delivery? That's months away.
This isn't some far-fetched scenario.
It's a digitization challenge faced by many organizations every single day. The swift march of progress often halts to a crawl, as organizations are held ransom to the whims and timelines of IT agencies. And the price tag? Let's not even go there.
But what if there was another way?
A way that puts you in the driver's seat, enabling you to bring your idea to life at your pace and on your terms? That's exactly the solution we're building here at Innoloft with LoftOS.
And guess what? Last week, Innoloft secured a 1 million euro funding round to supercharge this mission and make no-code development a reality for everyone.
Buckle up; here's how we're about to take the digitization highway by storm.
Setting the Stage: The Digitization Challenge
Picture this: a digital landscape desperate for pioneers. The demand is skyrocketing but the number of skilled IT professionals? A mere tumbleweed rolling across the scene.
The very backbone of digitization - IT specialists - will experience a shortage of 85 million globally by 2030 according to an article by The International Monetary Fund.
What does this mean, you ask?
Well, imagine trying to kickstart a rocket with no fuel or running a race with a sprained ankle - tricky, right? That's exactly how the landscape of digitization is shaping up.
This shortage isn't a simple snag, it's a full-on roadblock threatening productivity and competitiveness. And not just for a handful of companies, but for the entire business scape.
Well, this is an increasingly common narrative. Add to it, the interest in computer science studies has seen a nosedive in recent years.
Sure, education and immigration could patch the problem. But when we're staring at a digitization Grand Canyon, these solutions look more like band-aids on a broken arm.
The massiveness of the issue is looming larger than ever, and it's clear we need a more innovative solution.
The IT Bottleneck: Lack of Skilled Developers
Ah, the infamous IT bottleneck.
Stepping into an IT department these days is like stepping into a ghost town. Swivel chairs sit empty, screens remain blank, and keyboards sit idle. A clear sign of the looming specter of IT vacancies. The hum and buzz of innovation, the symphony of clattering keys - all muted.
But here's the kicker: this isn't a scene out of some dystopian movie.
This bottleneck is tangible. It's stifling creativity, curtailing progress, and constraining our ambitions. It's turning our express digitization train into a horse-and-cart ride.
But what if we could smash that barrier to smithereens? What if we had a solution right at our fingertips?
Power to the People: Making Software Development Accessible
Software development has long been the domain of IT wizards, a secret society proficient in the ancient art of coding.
But what if I told you that the power to create software solutions is within your reach?
Yes, you too can join the ranks of these tech-savvy developers, armed with the right tools and a bit of know-how.
And here comes the best part. No more waiting for the techies to conjure up the software solution you need.
We, at Innoloft, truly believe that the power of creation shouldn't be limited to those who can speak the mystical language of code.
Instead, we envision a world where coding is as easy as PowerPoint. A world where anyone with a good idea and a dash of determination can take the reins of digitization.
A world where software development is not just a privilege, but a right for all.
The No-Code Movement Gains Momentum
If the mere sight of code sent shivers down your spine… let me tell you, those days are long gone.
The no-code movement is a trend that's hitting all the right notes in the tech world. It's a liberating symphony for those who have the ideas but lack the code knowledge.
Fancy creating an app? No problem. Want to build an entire website from scratch? Easy-peasy. Need a custom workflow to streamline your business? Consider it done.
With no-code platforms like LoftOS, these are no longer pipe dreams reserved for the few who can decipher lines of code.
The beauty of the no-code movement is that it's not just a trend; it's a paradigm shift in the world of software development.
It's empowering non-techies to create, innovate, and disrupt.
And guess what? We at Innoloft are conducting this symphony, making no-code music that everyone can play.
Our CEO and co-founder, Sven Pietsch, envisions a future where everyone has the ability to create extensive IT solutions independently with ease.
Sven explains, "Just as we taught everyone to use Excel and PowerPoint in the early 2000s, now we must enable everyone to build web applications. This is the only way we can make digitization faster, cheaper and more efficient.”
And with LoftOS, we aim to do just that.
A Milestone: Innoloft's 1 Million Euro Seed Round Funding
Last week was a big one for us.
The kind of day when the coffee tastes extra rich, the office lights seem extra bright, and everyone is walking with a bit of extra pep in their step. Why, you ask?
Well, we've just closed a cool 1 million euros in seed funding!
But let's be clear, this isn't just a victory lap for us.
It's a resounding endorsement of a shared vision - a world where anyone can create software. Our investors aren't just backing Innoloft; they're backing you, the everyday innovators ready to shake things up. They're placing their bets on the no-code revolution, and they're betting big!
This funding is an investment in the limitless potential of you and your ideas. It's a game-changing pot of resources that we're pouring into making LoftOS the most empowering, intuitive, and accessible no-code platform it can be.
So yes, this is our milestone, but it's your victory!
So How Does the Future Look for Innoloft?
With Innoloft's recent €1 million seed funding, we aim to solidify LoftOS as a game-changer in the world of software development.
We plan to invest in enhancing the platform's scalability and flexibility, and further refine its user-friendly interface.
But enough about us! This story isn’t just ours - it's yours too.
Imagine the power to build your own digital solutions without waiting in line for IT experts. With LoftOS, you're not just a bystander in the tech revolution, you're an active participant.
So come aboard, take LoftOS for a spin, and let's shape the future of no-code together. Try LoftOS today.