Information and communication technology, innovative and production-related services

The rapid and mobile exchange of information has established itself as a key growth factor with the digitalization of all areas of life. According to the BMBF, more than 80 percent of innovations in sectors important to Germany are based on developments in the field of information and communication technologies. Accompanying this structural change, an increasing number of creative service providers are contributing to innovations – from product features to new business models. This combination of creativity and technical developments opens up new markets, for example for new intelligent services.

In the industry classification, the specialization field covers all areas of the ICT sector, with the exception of ICT trade.

In Thuringia, the ICT sector is compact compared to the national average, but is characterized by significant growth and strong networking with other industries. The growth led to the development of several networks (IT-net and Jena Digital, IT Cluster Central Germany) - a positive effect.

The scientific expertise for this industry cluster can be found in eight state universities (four universities and four universities of applied sciences) and eight research institutes and centers.

Research focuses include digital engineering, digital media technology, analysis, management and simulation of complex systems, mobile communications, precision systems, as well as technical and biomedical assistance systems.

Specialization profile for download
Specialization profile for download [pdf file , 92 KB]

The economy in the specialization field in figures

2.6 Revenue in billion euros

1900 Branches

20000 Dependent employees

Data source: own calculation based on data from the TLS, as of 2023 (figures rounded)

Profile

Derived from the specialization profile, four topics are currently emerging as potential drivers for this field:

Learning systems
Augmented and virtual reality – audiovisual assistance for humans
Everyday robotics – relief for humans
Digital platforms and services for business and administration

Competence fields

IT Infrastructure and Systems
- IT hosting, cloud computing
- System solutions with renewable
- Energies
- Smart Grid, Smart City
- Intelligent manufacturing, industrial automation, robotics, teleassistance
- Communication technology (optical, radio)
- IT Security
Software and production-related services
- eCommerce
- digital Engineering
- Simulation
- Big Data Analysis
- eHealth
- App development
- Design and marketing solutions
- System and support software
Digital Media / Media for People
- Mixed Reality (MR) or Cross Reality (XR), (3D) Audio, Multimedia Analysis
- Distribution of digital goods
- Adaptive learning media, edutainment
- Support and development of new audiovisual formats

Vision and goals

Shaping the Digital Economy: The cornerstone of the Bauhaus as the most important design school of the modern era – the working community of “artist, technician, and businessman” – is being adapted for the economy in Thuringia in a contemporary way and forms the basis for a new departure in innovation strategy. The combination of technical solution and handling, of product, service, and market, using the possibilities of networked processes and digital functions, secures our competitiveness and growth prospects.

The following strategic objectives are at the forefront:

Thuringia's economy relies on the cooperation of creative service providers with other sectors for innovation processes.
Thuringia is becoming a pioneer in the redesign of interface designs (human-machine interface) as a link between IT, communication design and technology.
Thuringia is expanding its leading position in the field of applied acoustics and 3D audio technology.
Thuringia is expanding its leading role in the development of e-commerce applications and creating new value-added relationships from the e-commerce solution to innovative logistics.

Thuringia is using its technological expertise in the field of audio and media to become a meeting point for a new avant-garde of media producers and new media formats. In doing so, the Free State is expanding its leading position as a children's media state and its orientation as a young, modern media location.
Thuringia achieves a top position in the development of techniques and content for educational media.
Thuringia stands for securely hosted applications in the eBusiness sector.
Thuringia sets standards for future media architectures, for the creation, transmission and playback of content.

Cluster and Network Organizations

IT network Thuringia

The main concerns of the IT network Thuringia are the intelligent networking and growth of the IT industry in Thuringia – together with its members and partners. The areas of responsibility include shaping economic policy, location marketing, and organizing joint work, particularly through networking and cooperation. The network currently comprises 43 companies with a total of approximately 1,300 employees.

www.itnet-th.de

Mobile Cluster Central Germany

The Mobile Cluster Central Germany was founded in 2014 with the aim of holistically representing the mobile industry vis-à-vis business, politics, and research. The range of services offered by the member companies extends from pure market overview and strategic consulting through concept and design to original development and marketing. The cluster currently has eight members, whose 150 employees work for renowned clients such as HRS, WirtschaftsWoche, and AVIS.

www.mobileclustermitteldeutschland.de