Department of Business Development and Technology

 Department of Business Development and Technology Research Research sections EngTech Research groups

Reseach groups

Engineering & Technology



EngTech consists of specialised research groups that explore the potential and challenges of technology. We work across disciplines and cover areas such as artificial intelligence, open source software, reality technologies, supply chain management, Industry 4.0 technologies, digital business development and project management. Together, we translate research into concrete solutions that create value for businesses, public organisations and society.



ARTIG

ARTIG is an EngTech research group conducting research into artificial intelligence and the possibilities and potential of AI across different sectors.

Our research covers areas ranging from robotics and drone technology to medical science, operations and supply chain management, and renewable energy. 

If you would like to hear more about our projects or collaborate with us, please feel free to contact Associate Professor Martin Olsen or Associate Professor Francesco Chinello.

Free Open Source Software (FOSS)

FOSS is an EngTech research group focusing on free open source software and its practical applications. We examine the symbiotic relationship between organisations, management, strategy and technology and use methods such as field studies, case studies and quantitative analyses to understand the dynamics involved.

The group publishes its findings in international journals within the social sciences, computer science and the humanities, while also advising companies and public authorities on how to navigate and contribute to open source communities.

If you would like to hear more or collaborate with us, please contact Professor Mirko Presser or Assistant Professor Madalina Pop.

Digital Smart Manufacturing

The research group works with digital business innovation and technology, focusing on the digitalisation of sustainable manufacturing companies and microfactories.

We develop digital business models and optimise processes through technologies such as IoT, autonomous robots, blockchain, vision technology, additive manufacturing, machine learning and materials processing. Our research also encompasses the design of agile and lean processes, networks and IT architectures connecting business, IT and operations from local systems to cloud platforms. 

In addition, we develop physical and virtual test environments for smart manufacturing, digital twins, IIoT and robot programming with a focus on digital, green and efficient production methods.

If you would like to hear more or collaborate with us, please contact Associate Professor Michail Beliatis.

Project Management

The research group for project management develops and shares new knowledge about project planning, management and implementation in the real world.

Our research covers the entire project lifecycle – from planning and teamwork to management and choice of methods – with a particular focus on agility, project teams and project models. The aim is to generate insights of benefit to both the research community and business and industry.

Teaching and supervision are key elements of our work. We teach project management on the Master’s degree programmes in Information Technology and Engineering, and we are testing new forms of learning such as VR-based scrum training, LEGO4SCRUM and agile workshops in collaboration with certified instructors from the business community.

Are you curious or interested in working with us? Please contact Maja Due Kadenic.

Extended Reality (XR)

The XR research group explores the possibilities and challenges of virtual, augmented and mixed reality technologies (VR, AR and MR). We bring together researchers and lecturers from different disciplines to create an interdisciplinary environment where technology, human-computer interaction, engineering, computer science, pedagogics, cognition and ethics meet.

Our goal is to develop groundbreaking solutions while creating a vibrant and engaging research environment where XR enthusiasts can exchange knowledge and collaborate. All activities take place in the xR2 laboratory at the department in Herning, room 2114.

If you would like to hear more or participate in our meetings, please contact Konstantinos Koumaditis or Francesco Chinello.

Operations Research (OR)

The research group on Operations Research (OR) focuses on mathematical modeling and optimisation of complex systems arising in engineering, logistics and industry. 

The group covers classical OR, including both exact algorithms and metaheuristics for large-scale optimisation problems, as well as engineering-oriented OR with a strong emphasis on modeling and problem formulation. The research also extends into computer science through algorithm analysis, decomposition methods and computational complexity. 

A common theme across these research directions is the development of efficient, robust and scalable quantitative methods that bridge theory and real-world applications.

If you would like to hear more or are interested in collaborating with us, please contact Professor Sanne Wøhlk.

Revised 20.01.2026
-
BTECH