Working group reports

08 Mai Technology Outlook 2017

Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences (SATW)
May 2017

Authors: Claudia Schärer et al. Main themes: early identification, technology Nature of publication: study One of SATW’s key missions is early identification of new, possibly disruptive technologies that will become relevant for Switzerland’s economy and society in the next three to five years. Every two years, the SATW therefore publishes the Technology Outlook. The current report presents 31 technologies drawn from the fields most relevant to the Swiss economy .

08 Fév Big data – ethical challenges for companies

Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences (SATW)
February 2017

Authors: Christian Hauser, Helene Blumer, Markus Christen, Lorenz Hilty, Markus Huppenbauer, Tony Kaiser Main themes: Big Data Nature of publication: study Who we are, what we do and who we communicate with are all now routinely recorded by countless devices. This is not targeted monitoring but rather an inherent characteristic of digital technology. In addition, data are increasingly easy to store and evaluate using ever more complex procedures. Some people view these developments as signifying tremendous potential for innovation, whilst others perceive a sword of Damocles hanging over privacy and personal freedom. Although both points of view are widely touted, the discussion of big data (and of the very term itself) remains in its infancy. To investigate this topic, experts at SATW have spent a year and a half examining big data at the interface between companies and their customers. These specialists have developed five current and potential future applications of big data and identified eight ethical standards and values that could be affected by big data. Their findings have been used to formulate recommendations for action for government and business that will aid in facilitating the development of big data technology and compliance with ethical frameworks.

08 Déc Dealing with risks – old and new challenges

Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences (SATW)
December 2016

Authors: Wolfgang Kröger et al. Main themes: risk Nature of publication: white paper The term risk still varies in its scope, and depending on the relevant community may be limited to the consequences of an undesired event or may also include positive aspects and opportunities. There is no universal definition, while the key elements of risk – in particular “probability” and its interplay with other elements – are frequently poorly understood. We are often left perplexed by residual uncertainties which may result from a lack of knowledge or the inherent randomness of events (take earthquake as an example), with the same going for the handling of residual risk. The simple risk concept with a multiplicative combination of frequency and consequence is often considered inappropriate for events with a high level of damage (despite their admitted rarity), asserting aversion to risk – as is for example common in the nuclear sector. These challenges (some old, some new) and touted opportunities were the subject of a workshop in November 2013. The aim of this white paper is to present a collection of selected articles to interested parties.