ALTEN has assisted the Jönköping-based start-up Paprtect in the development of their patented product that minimizes the spread of infection in public environments. The result? A successful project characterized by good communication where ALTEN’s in-house operations have worked closely together between different areas of expertise to achieve the best possible results.

An Intuitive Product with a Sweaty Start

Paprtect is a start-up with an innovation that minimizes the risk of spreading infection in public environments. The product is very intuitive, and it’s in its simplicity that its finesse and merit lie. A thin finger guard, made of touch and eco-friendly paper, is ejected from a physical holder mounted next to a touch screen. In this way, the intended user never has to directly touch the screen. Convenient and infection-proof.

The idea for the product came from, quite literally, a sweaty experience.

– It all started with a discussion in the sauna, says Ola Thorwalls, co-founder of Paprtect. One of us had been to a fast-food place during the day and expressed that he didn’t feel comfortable ordering on the dirty touch screen. The rest of us agreed – the idea was born then and there.

”This way of working creates a different kind of community. I’ve had assignments where you’re the only consultant on a project and it can be a bit difficult to feel a sense of belonging. In this case, I feel that the group becomes tight and supportive.”

From Prototype to Product

ALTEN has assisted with concept and product development, as well as prototyping in software, electronics and mechatronics. It has been a dynamic and fast-paced project characterized by high flexibility and tight dialogue. This is the opinion of Anders Olsson, Project Manager and Technical Expert, and Petter Lerenius, Software Manager. They are both based in Gothenburg and are part of ALTEN’s in-house operations.

– We try to be solution-oriented and break down the process, to streamline the work as we go along. It requires good planning, good dialogue and being able to look up from what you’re doing. We’ve done a good job of that, says Anders.

The project was initiated at the Jönköping office, where work began on a prototype. Glenn Sondell is one of ALTEN’s consultants who was involved in the early stages of the project.

– I worked mainly during the pre-development phase with Electronic System Design and the software. I’m a Mechanical Engineer, but I have re-oriented myself more towards Software Development and Electronics. It was very exciting and not least rewarding to get the opportunity and confidence to be part of this project!

”The cooperation has been characterized by a good understanding and knowledge of the project. We knew from experience that ALTEN are professionals and that we could expect quality and good communication.”

Strengthened Team Spirit and Close Cooperation

When it came to the stage of industrialization, the project travelled south to Gothenburg and ALTEN’s in-house operations. They carry out product development projects commissioned from a wide portfolio of companies in several different industries and sectors. It’s a multidisciplinary team, from Software Specialists to Electronics Engineers, working closely together. The cross-border work is one of their main strengths.

– Cooperation automatically leads to interaction, which in turn creates a close community. If someone discovers a problem, we can solve it by drawing competence from the large pool of expertise that is ALTEN, because we have the whole company to assist. Knowledge and experience within the organization is a key factor as to why it works as well as it does, says Petter.

Collaboration between the disciplines happens in more instances than just the work processes: Many of those involved share workspaces at the head office in Gothenburg. This also creates better conditions for flexibility and the ability to adapt to the situation.

– This way of working creates a different kind of community. I’ve had assignments myself where you’re the only consultant on a project and it can be a bit difficult to feel a sense of belonging. That’s why I try to build my team so that you’re not alone in your task. That way I feel the team is tight and supportive,” says Petter.

”Whatever your background, whatever you sell or work with, we can contribute. That’s what we do best: Tailor solutions through close dialogue and concept development.”

With the launch around the corner, starting in Scandinavia, Paprtect and Ola can look back on a successful project.

– The cooperation has been characterized by good understanding and a high level of knowledge. We knew from experience that ALTEN are professionals and that we could expect quality and good communication. We’ve really felt that ALTEN is the right partner!

A Recipe for Success

Anders and Petter also mention the fact that dialogue has been key, both between them and Paprtect, but also between the teams working on the software and the electronics.

– We’ve worked a lot in smaller teams and have had continuous interaction between us. I think it has brought us closer to the project: It gives you a clearer picture of your own role in the development chain and what you bring to the table. I think that’s important to be able to deliver and feel that you’re contributing, says Petter.

– It’s great to know that whatever your background, whatever you sell or work with, we can contribute. That’s what we do best: Tailor solutions through close dialogue and concept development, says Anders.

About ALTEN’s in-house operations

ALTEN’s in-house operations include product development projects and delivering agile development teams to ALTEN’s customers. They are run by the Technical Direction division and are managed by experienced delivery managers who are responsible for leading the teams in various projects and ensuring quality in the delivery. The teams consist of a wide range of engineers in several areas of expertise such as IT, mechanics, electronics, software, simulation/calculation and project management.

ALTEN in-house operations are located in several cities around Sweden, including Gothenburg, Stockholm and Linköping, among others.