The VIL carries out joint research projects in order to increase the competitiveness of Flemish logistics companies. These are ‘joint’ projects in the sense that support needs to be found for each project proposal. In other words, several companies must believe in the concept and the VIL approach.
All joint research projects follow the same five phases:
Phase 1
The topic of the research project is provided by the companies themselves. VIL therefore adopts a bottom-up approach through identifying the trends and demands within the market. Support is sought amongst companies for each project.
Phase 2
Research is then carried out, sometimes with a knowledge institute.
Phase 3
After the research has been completed and the results have been established, participating companies start the implementation process through case studies or pilot projects. The participating companies together form the user commission.
Phase 4
The research results and the case study results are released to the outside world through various communication channels (e.g. newsletters, press releases, events, etc.).
Phase 5
The process is completed by following up the implementation impact experienced by the participating companies.
