State of IT & Software Industry at Päijät-Häme Region in 2023

Abstract

In Päijät-Häme region, the information technology (IT) industry has witnessed substantial growth in recent years, propelled by the modernisation of the traditional sector through rapid technology adoption. This report is an attempt to capture the current state of the IT sector in Päijät-Häme region through surveys and interviews conducted among local actors, as well as an analysis of public statistical data related to the situation in the region. With growing number of software engineering students graduating annually, PäijätHäme has potential to become one of major hubs for graduate software engineers. Lahti’s educational landscape offers diverse paths for expertise attainment, covering technical roles, IT support and computer programming. LUT University, LAB University of Applied Sciences and Salpaus Further Education collaborate to nurture a skilled workforce that aligns with industry needs and stimulates regional technological advancement. Päijät-Häme’s evolving landscape reveals dynamic trends and areas for growth in the industry. The region, with its favourable price-to-cost ratio for everyday living, maintains a competitive edge. Respondents in our interviews and in our survey anticipated the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on industries and emphasized the importance of collaborative ventures and networking for regional competitiveness. Usercentric digital solutions were seen to gain prominence, underscoring the need to tailor technologies to user requirements. In addition, digital systems and services were expected to become prominent fields of expertise in education. Our survey unveiled key technologies used by the participating companies from the region, all renowned for their quality, efficiency, and security, driving product development and custom software creation. Our study also identified that companies still face challenges in technical expertise, skills training, business understanding, resource availability, team dynamics and leadership. Support is required in areas such as operating model enhancement, technology networking, value chain creation and collaborative research funding. Moreover, gender equality needs to be fostered in the IT community; thus, the concerted effort should focus on encouraging more women to explore IT careers, leveraging the expansion of opportunities in the field in the region. Efforts to enhance the ecosystem through cooperative projects and key player involvements are crucial for sustainable growth. Increased visibility and marketing of the region’s IT development strategy can attract larger enterprises and investments. Understanding digitalisation’s potential within companies, coupled with actionable solutions, is a priority. Talent attraction and retention strategies, including remote working options and rural appeal, are gaining attraction. Strengthening industry presence, facilitating sales (including exports abroad), improving digital infrastructure, fostering networking opportunities and enhancing online collaboration form a comprehensive vision for the regional progress of the IT industry.