LAB Focus Blogs
The blogs of LAB's four focus areas bring forth each focus area’s RDI and education activities.
Publication series
The LAB publication series publishes reports, monographs and compilations based on the RDI and higher education teaching activities at LAB.
All publications in the series are available online via Theseus.
About publishing in LAB
You can read more about LAB’s publishing activities from the LAB Guide to publishing and open science. The guide also offers information about open science, how to evaluate scholarly publications, and how to promote your research.
For any additional information or questions, please contact julkaisut
lab [dot] fi (julkaisut[at]lab[dot]fi)
Latest articles
LAB Open
Industry 5.0: A Human-Centric Technology Paradigm and the Role of Education
Industry 5.0 is a future strategy for technology launched by the European Commission, seeking a paradigm shift in our relationship with technology. This article examines how technological humanism provides an ethical and philosophical foundation that differs from posthumanist and transhumanist interpretations, as well as from interpretations of sustainability limited to environmental metrics. Industry 5.0 broadens the perspective to include social and human sustainability – ensuring that technological development strengthens communities, participation, and the common good. Finally, the article considers how this approach could be concretised in education: why future educational programmes should be critically human-centric and how they could combine technological competence, ethical judgment, and social responsibility in a way that ensures no one is left behind. Source
When two worlds collide: The journey towards SME–HEI long-term collaboration
Cooperation between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and higher education institutions (HEIs) creates innovation and growth, especially when these collaborations evolve from a one-time outreach into lasting partnerships. This article explores the journey of SME–HEI collaboration, from making initial contact to building a long-term relationship. Source
From strangers to superfans: A short and practical customer journey guide for SMEs
Most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aim to turn strangers into loyal customers. This article goes through the different stages of the customer journey, from initial awareness to advocacy, and it offers research-backed tips to guide SMEs in converting one-time customers into repeat buyers or brand “superfans.” By understanding each step of the journey, companies are able to better understand how to build strong relationships with their customers, gain their loyalty, reduce marketing costs, and create organic growth. In the context of the NOKKA project, understanding the customer journey also supports research-driven commercialization as it helps SMEs validate real customer needs, assess market potential for new innovations, and prepare for successful market entry. Source
LAB Focus
Failure as a teacher of resilience and mental strength
Entrepreneurship demands more than just a good idea, it requires the mental strength to navigate uncertainty, failures, and constant change. Resilient founders think differently. They respond to challenges with adaptability, optimism, and a problem-solving perspective. Let’s find out what are some of the key mindset habits that help emotionally resilient entrepreneurs push through failures and […] The post Failure as a teacher of resilience and mental strength appeared first on LAB Focus.
A guide on smart content strategy for MSEs
Content marketing is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) to build trust, reach their ideal customers, and attract an organic stream of inbound leads. Content marketing is a long-term investment that requires commitment and consistency (Bhalla et al. 2024; Holliman & Rowley 2014). Content marketing can set […] The post A guide on smart content strategy for MSEs appeared first on LAB Focus.
Give up giving up! The importance of consistent content marketing
Many entrepreneurs abandon content marketing too early, missing out on its long-term benefits. This blog encourages small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs to give up giving up and embrace a smart marketing strategy that supports steady business and grows their customer base organically. At LAB, we want to support small businesses by sharing research […] The post Give up giving up! The importance of consistent content marketing appeared first on LAB Focus.