About SimLab
SimLab's mission is to research and teach business processes, models, networks and their development, to enhance innovation in the networked society and to increase scientific knowledge in the field.
SimLab's vision is to be an internationally networked and recognized multidisciplinary research and teaching unit of business processes, models, networks and their development, attracting top students, researchers, and pilot organizations in conducting long-term research.
SimLab's faculty consists of its founder, professor Riitta Smeds, FiDiPro Professor Sirkka Jarvenpaa (2008-2012), and assistant professor Miia Jaatinen. In addition, the unit employs project managers, researchers, research assistants, a project coordinator, and a technical expert. In multidisciplinary research and teaching, SimLab collaborates with professors from other disciplines within its national and international network.
SimLab's research and teaching concerns networked business processes, models and networks of companies and public organizations. The topics include collaborative innovation, learning, and management in inter-organizational business and service processes, customer-centeredness, and ICT as an enabler of new networked business.
SimLab's research mainly applies a problem-based constructive research approach, action research and case studies, and qualitative methods. But also quantitative research methods are used. Research is conducted multidisciplinary research teams, mostly in externally funded projects.
SimLab's teaching consists mainly of Master's and postgraduate level courses, given in the Information Networks Degree Programme. Teaching follows to a great extent a research-based, problem oriented and team work approach. Teaching is closely connected with research: students participate in research projects, and researchers collaborate in teaching.
The core method in both research and teaching is the SimLabTM business process simulation and development method that applies the SimLab collaborative innovation environment.
SimLab virtual learning environment is designed for participative group simulations, supporting active learning and communication. The visual centre of attention is the 10m wide and 2m high video screen that is connected to 4 data projectors and AV-system. SimLab researchers utilize the space and screen innovatively in constructing visually impressive models and simulations of business processes.
SimLab's results are published as theses, conference papers, journal articles, books and in the SimLab report series. Over the period 2001-2008, the number of scientific publications is over 160, including 31 Master theses (out of which 17 in Information Networks), 3 Licentiate theses and 5 Doctoral theses. The graduated students have been excellently employed.