Open Access

With digitalization and automation, today's economy is undergoing fundamental changes. Organizations are facing increasing complexity and dynamism, coupled with demographic shifts that require changing workforce skills and organizational flexibility. To ensure a sustainable competitive advantage, it is necessary to efficiently deploy employees based on demand. In addition, a method for early identification and targeted development of future competencies within an appropriate forecasting horizon is required. Building on theoretical foundations, this paper examines the practical challenges of describing and assessing competencies. It also examines the interrelationships between competencies and between competencies and external factors. The paper categorizes competencies based on hierarchical level and task composition, and examines relationships between competencies and external factors. It proposes a novel multi-dimensional, layered, and dynamic competency model as a holistic approach to competency management and forecasting. Finally, this paper outlines steps for validating and implementing the model, and assesses its potential for practical application in organizations navigating the evolving digital landscape.

The European transport landscape, which is increasingly burdened by the risk of natural disasters, pandemics and geopolitical conflicts, requires a rethink in designing and managing of its multimodal transport networks. The Resilient Multimodal Transport Network (ReMuNet) research project is a response to this problem and a beacon of hope for innovation and strategic thinking. This extended abstract provides an overview of the ReMuNet project, in which, after an introduction, the methodology and results are presented.

The ReMuNet project aims to enhance the resilience and sustainability of European freight transport networks in response to disruptive events. By utilizing synchromodal relay transportation, it integrates multimodal logistics approaches to improve network efficiency and adaptability. Core functionalities include the detection and assessment of disruptive events, real-time route planning, and the use of AI to optimize multimodal transport routes. ReMuNet's collaborative platform fosters stakeholder coordination, ensuring capacity allocation and sustainable transport options. Pilot regions focus on geopolitical and ecological challenges, emphasizing lessons from past disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aligns with the European Physical Internet vision, contributing to reduced emissions and robust freight logistics.

Marco Lohrey vom FIR e. V. an der RWTH Aachen spricht mit Michel Scholtysik vom Heinz Nixdorf Institut Paderborn darüber, wie die Circular Economy unser Verständnis von Wirtschaft und Nachhaltigkeit verändert.

Dr. Markus Mörtl vom Lehrstuhl für Produktentwicklung und Leichtbau der TU München diskutiert mit Marco Lohrey, Projektmanager am FIR an der RWTH Aachen, darüber, warum die Kostenidentifizierung in der Produktentwicklung ein entscheidender Faktor für die erfolgreiche Markteinführung eines Produkts ist.