Andrey Popov/Adobe Stock
Andrey Popov/Adobe Stock
Expertise
PT-LAB is the future-focused laboratory of the project management organisation VDI/VDE-IT. We are testing new methods to make research funding more efficient, transparent and effective. Using data analysis, AI-supported processes and digital services, we are developing innovative tools that offer real added value to clients, partners and society. Together, we are shaping the future of research funding.
Key areas
We are driving forward the future of funding policy.
Intelligent analytics and automation provide new insights to inform decision-making.
From design to evaluation – we improve funding processes.
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Innovation & Future Topics
At PT-LAB, we anticipate technological, societal and economic developments and translate them into concrete initiatives for research funding. Our task is to identify opportunities and risks at an early stage and derive innovative approaches for programmes and actions.
We identify new topics that will become relevant to science, businesses and society, and explore how they can be embedded in funding policy and practice. In this way, we incorporate future perspectives into existing and new programmes.
Research and innovation do not stop at national borders. That is why we analyse international developments, competitive landscapes and opportunities for cooperation. Based on these insights, we support our clients in designing funding strategies that are globally aligned and in strengthening international partnerships.
To ensure that opportunities and challenges are not only identified sporadically but monitored continuously, we conduct systematic trend monitoring. In doing so, we track technological trends, societal changes and economic dynamics – thereby providing a sound basis for forward-looking decisions.
Through forward-looking insights, an international perspective, and continuous monitoring, PT-Lab provides guidance on funding policy that remains fit for the future.
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Data & AI
At PT-LAB, we use data to make funding processes more efficient, transparent and targeted. Our work ranges from exploratory analyses and real-time systems to AI-supported automation that simplifies administrative processes and improves decision-making.
We tap into new data sources and combine them with existing information to identify trends at an early stage. This allows us to better assess the potential and challenges of funding measures – and gain new insights for programme design.
Using digital dashboards and monitoring tools, we enable continuous monitoring of funding schemes. Decision-makers receive up-to-date overviews of developments and results at all times – ensuring transparency and real-time oversight.
Artificial intelligence opens up new possibilities in research funding. We are testing methods such as the automatic classification of project applications, intelligent text and data analysis, and process automation. This reduces the workload, speeds up processes and frees up time for substantive work.
For PT-LAB, data and AI are not a vision of the future, but part of everyday practice – providing the foundation for a funding policy that is faster, more effective, and more transparent.
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Digital Services & Tools
Whether in advisory services, programme management or networking: PT-LAB develops digital services that support funded projects in their day-to-day work. Our solutions make complex processes more efficient and transparent – providing greater clarity for everyone involved.
We provide digital platforms that facilitate professional exchange between projects and experts. This creates a new form of support, fostering knowledge transfer, strengthening networks, and accelerating innovation.
Using digital tools, we provide an overview of budgets and the use of funds. This increases transparency, simplifies budget planning, and helps ensure that funding is used efficiently.
Our chatbot Aitisi makes funding information available around the clock. The digital assistant answers questions about the application process, explains funding guidelines and guides applicants through each step – quickly, clearly and at any time. In this way, we reduce barriers to participation and increase transparency throughout the entire funding process.
At PT-LAB, digital services are not an afterthought, but a core tool for sustainably improving funding practices.
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Designing Programmes
From the initial idea to evaluation: PT-LAB tests new approaches to designing, implementing and further developing funding programmes in a targeted manner. Our aim: programmes that create impact and deliver societal value.
We translate scientific and societal needs into specific funding programmes. In doing so, we identify topics that shape the future and design concepts for their implementation.
Together with our clients, we develop strategies for the effective implementation of programmes – clearly structured, transparent, and efficient.
We explore new ways to increase the visibility of programmes – from clear information to dialogue-oriented engagement with target groups.
We test methods for the effective realisation of programmes and their continuous evaluation. In this way, we ensure that funding initiatives are not only launched but also successfully completed.
With this holistic approach, PT-LAB helps to design funding programmes that are effective, transparent and future-ready.
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Cooperation & Exchange
Innovation thrives on networking. That is why PT-LAB focuses on exchange and collaboration with partners from academia, businesses, and politics – both nationally and internationally.
We analyse competitive landscapes and international developments to build new partnerships and alliances. In doing so, we create access to markets, knowledge and networks.
We organise exchange formats and develop platforms that facilitate knowledge transfer and collaboration. In this way, individual initiatives can grow into shared successes.
For PT-LAB, cooperation and exchange are not optional extras, but a core principle – enabling research funding that transcends boundaries and creates synergies.
