iSYS Technology Lab: One step ahead of the future

Technology is developing rapidly - but what is sustainably relevant? What has potential for companies? And how do you create space for innovation without losing sight of reality? In this interview, Marc Ponschab, Head of Technology Lab at iSYS, provides insights into the work of his team - and explains why he believes systematic curiosity is the key to technological excellence.

Hello Marc, why does iSYS have its own Technology Lab?

The IT world is fast-moving, complex and full of opportunities – but also full of uncertainty. For us as a provider of customised software solutions, it is not enough to simply ‘keep up’. We want to understand what is coming, critically scrutinise what remains and design what makes sense.
The Technology Lab provides a structured framework for this: a space for targeted experimentation, learning and research – always with a clear goal in mind: to make our customers fit for the future.

What exactly does the Technology Lab do?

We identify new technological and business opportunities – for example in the areas of AI, automation or sustainable software architecture.
We implement these ideas in initial prototypes or pilot projects: partly internally, partly with progressive customers or in research collaborations.
At the same time, we work closely with the Competence Centres at iSYS and the iSYS Academy to quickly embed new knowledge in the company

What distinguishes the lab from a traditional R&D department?

We deliberately look beyond purely technical issues. The lab works very closely with our Business Development department, because for us innovation doesn’t just mean: ‘What is technically possible?’ – but also: ‘What brings real added value?’
Furthermore, we are not an ‘ivory tower’, but are always in contact with reality: with real use cases, real customers and real challenges.
Of course, we also carry out research and development projects and benefit greatly from our cooperation with universities and research institutes.

What drives you personally in your role?

I am motivated by the fact that we can bring about concrete change through technology – if we have the courage to embrace something new. I see the Technology Lab as a thinking space in which we can allow ourselves to ask questions, scrutinise the status quo and remain curious.
And at the same time, it is a kind of compass for iSYS: so that we not only keep pace technologically, but also move forward intelligently.

How does the Lab contribute to customer projects?

Whenever something is ‘not off the peg’. We provide support in finding ideas, provide impetus for forward-looking architectural decisions or help to realistically assess new technologies.
Our strength is that we get involved very quickly – and can therefore assess at an early stage whether something has substance or not.

Thank you Marc for your time!

Always with pleasure. Life is too short for bad software, but never for the essential things.