The Innovation Program
The world and our passengers' expectations are changing at an unprecedented pace. That is why it is our responsibility to evolve alongside them. To respond to this, SNCB-NMBS launched its innovation programme in 2019. Our aim is to respond swiftly to the needs of passengers, staff and partners, whilst preparing ourselves as effectively as possible for the future.
We are convinced that innovation improves the train journey, increases satisfaction amongst all those involved and is essential for the sustainable development of our company.
Innovation at SNCB-NMBS
The Innovation Lab (the official name of the innovation team) has two key missions:
- Deliver: to test solutions that meet the needs of our passengers whilst also increasing the efficiency of internal processes.
- Inspire: to foster innovation throughout the organisation by inspiring colleagues and providing them with the tools to prepare for the future.
These two tasks are carried out in close collaboration with all departments within SNCB-NMBS.
Projects launched by the innovation team:
INSPIRE
An Innovation Community was set up to inspire colleagues and prepare them for the future. This community brings together staff who want to find out more about innovation. They are invited to various events where they are introduced to new technologies, innovative projects within SNCB-NMBS and inspiring initiatives from Belgian and international railway companies.
Innovation Day
Every year in April, Innovation Day showcases the many innovations within SNCB-NMBS and its partner network. During this event, staff have the opportunity to discover ongoing projects and future initiatives through demonstrations, interactive presentations and hands-on experiences.
Over the years, Innovation Day has become a regular fixture at SNCB-NMBS. Colleagues from all departments and at all levels of the organisation come together to exchange ideas and find inspiration. It is the ideal opportunity to put innovation centre stage and shape the SNCB-NMBS of tomorrow together.
International Innovation Railway Exchange (IRIX)
In addition to its internal initiatives, the Innovation Lab meets twice a year with innovation and railway experts from other European railway companies. During these meetings, ongoing projects, innovative developments and future challenges are discussed.
These exchanges provide valuable inspiration and create opportunities to share knowledge and build partnerships with organisations facing similar challenges.
And what about Artificial Intelligence in all this?
As well as proof-of-concepts that improve the passenger experience, the Innovation Lab is also investigating how artificial intelligence (AI) can add value within SNCB-NMBS.
Various pilot projects are currently underway to assess the concrete impact of this technology. These projects are investigating the situations in which AI can simplify administrative tasks, support staff in their day-to-day work and contribute to a higher quality of work
The Innovation Lab has deliberately opted for a pragmatic approach. The aim is not simply to apply artificial intelligence everywhere, but rather to identify those applications where AI offers clear added value. Where this is the case, AI can streamline processes, free up time for tasks with greater human value, and help staff focus on what really matters: providing our passengers with an even better service.
