SoundVison

About this project

<p>The SoundVision project, developed in collaboration with partners in Bulgaria and Norway, has created an innovative device to empower people with visual impairments. Recognized with the prestigious Stevie® Award for best new healthcare technology solution in 2022, SoundVision aims to provide affordable assistive technology to enhance the independence and economic well-being of visually impaired individuals. This project exemplifies successful cooperation between countries and offers a transformative ecosystem for innovation, enabling developers worldwide to create applications that benefit the visually impaired.</p> <p>The main aims of the SoundVision project are to empower visually impaired individuals with innovative assistive technology, enhance their independence, and contribute to social innovation. Further the project predicts an increase in competitiveness, turnover and the creation of 2 new jobs.&nbsp;</p> <p>The project also contains a strong bilateral component. In fact, two Norwegian partners (The Norwegian Computing Center &amp; Adaptor), were crucial to the implementation, and the success of this project. In addition to exchanging expertise, and aiding in research &amp; development activities, the partners have set an excellent example of bilateral cooperation between Norwegian and Bulgarian companies. A project like this can be a lighthouse for others to follow, as well as open up many new market opportunities on both sides.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

Bilateral cooperation results

The bilateral collaboration between project partners—NRS, Scalefocus, Adaptor, and Synergia—was highly effective, ensuring the project’s success through smooth communication, adaptability, and shared responsibility. Clear roles and responsibilities facilitated efficient progress, with NRS and Scalefocus closely collaborating on research and development, particularly in recognition models and indoor navigation. After the commercialization phase was cancelled, Adaptor supported the project by organizing user testing and helping with internationalization. Effective communication tools like MS Teams and Jira, along with a smooth project management transition, kept the team aligned. Increased meeting frequency ensured timely feedback and adjustments, driving the successful execution of the project.

Project partners

• Norsk Regnesentral Donor project partner· Norway
• Adaptor AS Donor project partner· Norway
• Synergia Foundation Project partner· Bulgaria