research project "Factories of the Future: Digital Platforms for Innovation, Collaboration and Participation"

Invitation for a Freelancer Group Discussion We are investigating digital platforms of work, innovation and freelance with the aim to make suggestions how existing digital platforms can be redesigned to enable new ways of working and collaboration between enterprises and individuals, encourage innovation and participation building towards a new vision for ‘Factories of the Future’. The key objective is to find ways to capitalise on digital platforms driving societal and economic benefits that would allow skilled workers and investors to meet, exchange ideas, develop opportunities and innovative products, creating both wealth and greater individual and social satisfaction. “Digital Workplace for Innovation and Participation” (DigiWIP) is funded by the Web Science Institute at the University of Southampton from the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) allocated to the University by HEFCE to stimulate interactions with business, government, industry and other users of University research. The project team involves the Southampton Business School, the Department of Geography and Environment and the IT Innovation Centre. We call for freelancers working on digital platforms to discuss their experiences and their ideas about the existing and future web-based platforms with the focus on innovation and collaboration. Results from the focus group will feed directly into policy recommendations and future collaboration will be encouraged. The focus group is supported by IPSE, the largest UK Self-employment and Freelance Association, and will take place at the IPSE, Heron House, Westminster, London. Refreshments and light lunch will be provided. Travel expenses will be reimbursed. It will take place on Tues 24th Jan at 11am. If you would like to take part, please contact Dr Markieta Domecka. This study has ethics approval by the University of Southampton (Ethics ID: 24897).