During the second reporting period, the INTERLINK project successfully achieved all its milestones, and in particular Mil2 – First release of INTERLINK Platform; Mil3 – Evaluation results of first use-case phase; Mil4 – Second release of INTERLINK Platform; Mil5 – Evaluation results of second use-case phase; and Mil6 – Final release of INTERLINK solution. The final version of the INTERLINK solution included the INTERLINK Platform and Governance model, with plans for sustainability and business exploitation. More specifically, the following work was carried out:
• An Advanced Governance Model was developed through empirical research, including case studies, focus groups, and interviews across eleven countries. The model was validated through use-case evaluations and extensive case studies, enhancing it with stakeholder preferences.
• We delivered a co-business model for long-term co-production, introducing the INTERLINK Token concept. In addition, we developed a fair co-exploitation processes, introducing the INTERLINK Co-Exploitation License (ICEL) and Co-Business Accelerator (CoBA) Interlinkers. The project emphasized a comprehensive approach to maximize gains from co-production while ensuring fairness in benefits distribution.
• The first list of Interlinkers was identified, elicited by the needs of project partners, by the 3 PAs participating in the project and by a fourth public body - the Municipality of Reggio Emilia. The feedback collected during the first pilot validation provided further functional requirements and guided the realization of an expanded catalogue of knowledge and software Interlinkers that was used during the pilot Iteration 2. The final catalogue includes 21 resources, comprising original software, adapted components, and pointers to third-party solutions, with an emphasis on resource reusability and collaboration with end-users.
• We organized, executed, and evaluated 2 iterations of pilots, divided into two sub-phases: pre-pilot and pilot execution. In the actual execution of the pilots, diverse stakeholders co-produced new public services and tested those co-created for them. This evaluation process allowed us to verify the adequacy of the INTERLINK co-production model and its supporting tools.
• Finally, concerning market analysis and business model development, activities involved assessing market demand and supply; exploring the digital public services context in target countries; engaging with potential clients through demonstrations; and studying key competitors. Continuous communication and dissemination efforts have been maintained, resulting in the creation of impactful brand materials and communication products. An animated video and infographics were released to to summarize project achievements, and commercial landing pages were strategically developed.
