The BASE program is an initiative that explores how technology can be leveraged to improve entire regions. It applies user-centred and interdisciplinary approaches to develop tangible prototypes that address user needs while exploring technological possibilities. The program aims to create innovative solutions that integrate advanced smart technologies with sustainable smart environments.
BASE is a program designed to foster innovation by utilizing the outcomes of prior iterations to enhance both technological development and user understanding. The initiative is coordinated by Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK) in collaboration with Aalto Design Factory and Hochschule Mannheim’s inno.space Design Factory. All three institutions are members of the Design Factory Global Network, which emphasizes user-centred innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and hands-on prototyping.
In this program, students are encouraged to use design methodologies to empathize with real users, using these insights to inspire meaningful and practical product ideas. These concepts are grounded in the ATTRACT technologies and shaped by their regional contexts. Decision-making within the projects is informed by context-specific findings, iterative user testing, and an emphasis on developing solutions that align with the principles of sustainability and practicality.
The program includes two courses that equip students with the necessary skills to create innovative prototypes. The International Product Development Project (iPdP), hosted by HAMK and inno.space, engages bachelor’s and master’s level students in interdisciplinary projects utilizing methodologies such as design thinking and phenomena-based learning. The Product Development Project (PdP), coordinated by Aalto Design Factory, focuses on master’s students from different fields, including technology, business, and design. These students collaborate with industry partners to develop functional prototypes using a project-based learning approach.
“The program empowered students to realize the significant impact they could create using ATTRACT technologies, not only by envisioning new solutions but also by inspiring R&D&I teams to think in new ways. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, students uncovered hidden skills and delivered truly valuable outcomes. The program also challenged coaches, teachers, and researchers to refine their approaches, enabling more effective coordination of such projects. Both the students and us the program team are now better prepared to tackle future challenges”, commented Jali Närhi, coordinator of BASE and project coordinator at HAMK.
The ultimate goal of this program is to demonstrate how smart technologies, such as those provided in ATTRACT, can enhance people’s lives while maintaining a sustainable relationship with the planet. By fostering collaboration among students, educators, and industry stakeholders, BASE provides a model for innovation that integrates cutting-edge technology with real-world applications.
Through three rounds and five courses in ATTRACT phase 2, BASE has engaged 73 students from 29 different degree programs, developing 11 solutions that integrate user needs with technological possibilities. Participants collaborated with various ATTRACT technologies: UNICORN Dx, AHEAD, SNIFFIRDONE, HYLIGHT, and others.
Here you can watch a video of the BASE program:
For additional information about the program, visit here.
