The Business Informatics Technology Centre, a small but powerful research unit in the Upper Valais with strong links to the University of Bern and the The Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (FFHS), has been in existence for over 15 years. This is a long time for the fast-moving IT sector and demonstrates a remarkable degree of constancy and sustainability. In accordance with its regional roots, the TEWI chooses topics that are particularly relevant to the Valais region with its special geographical location and economic structure, such as IT use in the tourism industry or the implementation of telecooperation. We were also able to make visible contributions here in the past reporting year through practice transfer events and research publications. The past year was marked by several staff rotations. Unfortunately, vacancies caused by staff departures could not be filled immediately, which is certainly also due to the economic boom that has now ended as a result of the financial crisis. The fact that the TEWI was nevertheless actively involved in several conference events and was even able to place publications at international scientific conferences speaks for the strength of this construct and the strategy adopted of active networking with university institutions within and outside Valais. In this context, it should be particularly noted that TEWI, as a co-applicant, was able to achieve recognition of the SOLET project (Swiss Open Laboratory for E-Tourism) as an EU Living Lab. In the future, this should also be filled with life for the benefit of the Valais/Wallis tourism region.
I would like to invite you to read more about the activities of the TEWI in this activity report. I would be pleased if the contents find your interest. We are going into the future with many new ideas and projects and hope to retain your appreciation. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all partner institutions for their cooperation; the TEWI network for supporting our activities and the Canton of Valais and the Municipality of Brig-Glis for their financial contributions. I hope for a good cooperation in the future.
Prof. Dr. Thomas Myrach, President TEWI
Read the complete activity report 2008.