Industry faces tremendous challenges today:

- To survive in a fast-moving environment, companies must compete at the global level and continuously adapt their footprint to industrial capacities, supply chains and customer markets.

- Innovation capabilities have also become critical. Companies can no longer focus exclusively on internal product R&D and must also invest in innovation through service (new usage or delivery modes).

- Confronted with the scarcity of raw materials and increasing volatility, companies must develop their resources and risk management capabilities as well as their organization’s agility.

- Last but not least, sustainable development has become a driving force in the market and now forms part of every company’s business challenges. 

So how can a better understanding of the business ecosystem and improved relationships with stakeholders help the service sector meet these challenges?

- By working closely with their BtoB customers and understanding and anticipating their needs, industrial companies can significantly enrich their offer to deliver more value.

- Companies can also leverage their suppliers’ capabilities and resources. Industrial footprint, innovation capabilities, secure supply chains and green design are, among others, key areas to focus on with suppliers.

- Building privileged relationships with strategic partners is a critical driver in a network economy.

Cooperative innovation, program co-funding and joint teams offering a combination of world-class expertise are just some of the ways to build competitive advantage.