With around 11,000 employees, LBBW is Germany’s largest state bank and enables location-independent working. Like many other companies, the bank was faced with the challenge of how teams could work on joint tasks across different locations and in a virtual space: ‘We had various applications for collaborative working, but we wanted to focus on a central tool. Our focus was primarily on the joint development of concepts and the organisation of purely virtual and hybrid meetings and workshops. It was also important for us to integrate central functions such as a Kanban board,’ summarises Rüdiger Kinzel, one of over 30 Agile Coaches at the bank. In addition to the technical requirements, it was particularly important that the tool fulfils the bank’s strict security standards and is accessible without barriers.

Conceptboard as a bank-wide solution

After a careful examination of various solutions, Conceptboard was chosen. ‘Conceptboard fulfils all the requirements that are important to us,’ says Kinzel. ‘The GDPR and ISO certification, the accessibility of the tool and the proximity to the provider here in Stuttgart were also decisive factors for us.’

‘Conceptboard is intuitive and covers a wide range of use cases. As a result, the tool has spread quickly within the bank and is being used actively. After just six months, we have already reached the number of active users that we hadn’t actually planned until a year after launch,’ explains Christoph Warncke, who is responsible for Conceptboard at LBBW as Service Owner.  

The convincing advantages of Conceptboard:

• Security: Conceptboard’s high security standards, including GDPR and ISO certification, were a decisive criterion for LBBW.
• Efficient utilisation: Projects and processes can be created and edited in no time at all thanks to the intuitive operation and wide range of functions.
• Teamwork: Working together on whiteboards, documents and coordination promotes communication and exchange within the team.
• A variety of functions: From Kanban boards and voting to document management, Conceptboard offers everything needed for efficient collaboration.
• Design: Over 100 appealing templates and a constant stream of new functions, such as the table function, ensure a clear and structured presentation of information.

Learned in no time: it’s that simple!

‘Conceptboard is a real relief in day-to-day work and has become an indispensable tool,’ says Kinzel, summarising his experience. LBBW uses various training formats to familiarise employees with Conceptboard. ‘We have set up a community on our social intranet for questions about Conceptboard,’ reports Kinzel. ‘We also offer various training formats, both internal and on-the-job training.’

Success story: Conceptboard as a building block to inspire employees

With Conceptboard, the bank has found a tool that efficiently supports the teams in their work in a hybrid environment. The application enables projects and processes to be organised more efficiently and collaboration within the teams to be significantly improved. ‘Conceptboard has very quickly become a central building block in the bank’s collaborative tools environment,’ says Warncke, summarising the development within the company.

Give Conceptboard a try now and take your teams to the next level! 

If you want to discover more about how Conceptboard has empowered other organisations to boost productivity and efficiency, explore our customer success stories.

More Success Stories

• Simple and intuitive project management for large projects with Conceptboard
• Object Freezing Feature to keep important headers in view
• Efficient virtual collaboration, with internal and external partners
• Feature development

In hybrid projects, it’s often difficult to stay on top of things, especially when multiple stakeholders, departments, or even external partners are involved. To facilitate collaboration, Conceptboard has created an intuitive and secure collaboration tool: the online whiteboard, which includes numerous practical features. New among these is the Object Freezing Feature, allowing objects to be anchored on the user interface. This way, even with tens of thousands of objects in one board, you always have the essentials in view.

All Ideas in One Place: Uncomplicated Real-Time Collaboration

With New Work, working models have changed significantly, introducing flexibility into everyday life through remote work. This requires innovative IT infrastructures for seamless connectivity, not only within teams but across departments. Additionally, large companies and the public sector often work across levels—from federal to state to municipal—and collaborate with external service providers or partners. Successful communication in large projects demands a powerful collaboration tool that connects everyone.

An Online Whiteboard for Documentation and Optimization

Conceptboard has developed an online whiteboard designed to consolidate ideas and strategies in one place. Among other things, it functions like an online mind map where everyone collaborates virtually. The certified and GDPR-compliant digital whiteboard offers numerous features that help leaders and employees structure projects and optimize workflows. Users can create brainstorming sessions in real-time, upload, edit, and share documents, and utilize templates as blueprints. Popular functions such as sticky notes and board history and versioning, make visual collaboration easier. This is modern teamwork—virtual, practical, and intuitive.

Data Protection and Customer Service Are Essential

The online whiteboard and its features are GDPR-compliant and meet the highest security standards. This is crucial not only for the public sector but also for large enterprises with external partners. To manage sensitive data securely, Conceptboard offers its online tool in secure cloud environment. Hosting is provided by our BSI- and C5-certified partners IONOS and AWS on German servers, ensuring the privacy our customers expect.

Conceptboard continuously works with its clients to create innovative solutions for their unique challenges. We focus on their needs and develop our online tools, like the digital whiteboard, alongside them. In joint workshops, we monitor the results to design new features that make daily tasks easier. Conceptboard also offers regular training to keep everyone on the same page. A brand-new feature is the “Object Freeze” widget, which simplifies navigation.

Globally Unique: Keeping Track with the Object Freezing Feature

In February 2024, Conceptboard introduced a globally unique feature: the Object Freeze. This allows users to lock objects in a whiteboard, which is especially beneficial in large projects, where it’s easy to lose track of them when zooming in or out. The “frozen” objects follow you on your user interface, remaining visible at all times. They can be anchored at the top, bottom, or sides as needed.

The Object Freezing Feature is similar to Excel’s “Freeze Panes” but is more intuitive, moving relative to the axis where it’s positioned in all directions. It remains scrollable, no matter where you are on the board. If the anchors become obstructive, they can be hidden with one click, and just as easily restored. You can find the exact location of any frozen object on the board by double-clicking its locked counterpart in the user interface.

Multiple objects can be fixed simultaneously at the edges. If they overlap, they are stacked, with the nearest object on top.

Step-by-Step Guide: Object Freezing Feature

• Select an object.
• Choose “More” (three dots) in the floating toolbar or right-click on the object.
• Select “Freeze object.”
• You can also set the position here. Choose the edge where you want to freeze the object.
• To unfreeze, click “Unfreeze object.”

Create your whiteboard now

A milestone in large IT Projects

Conceptboard’s clients face the challenge of organizing massive amounts of information in a clear manner for large IT projects. The scope of the topics are so extensive that they can not be displayed on a single page, especially when using the zoom function. When integrating large data sets into a board, clients found that employees loose orientation without reference points. The larger the whiteboard grows, the more complex navigation becomes. Conceptboards solution: a navigational aid that would follow the user.

Object Freezing Feature as the Perfect Compass

Conceptboard designed the Object Freezing Feature. It allows users to set anchors as reference points and create single-pagers for large IT projects. While Conceptboard previously offered a mini-navigation, this is a huge upgrade. This feature has been a tremendous relief for the users.

Managing Complex Data in Team Boards

The feature is available for all Conceptboard users, simplifying the embedding and transfer of information between different team boards. Complex data can finally be managed. Any questions are addressed by articles in the Help Center or through Conceptboard’s support and exclusive training sessions.

Conclusion: Object Freezing Feature Brings Clarity to Large Projects

Conceptboard is a leader in collaborative technologies. With innovative, intuitive features like “Freeze Objects,” companies and public institutions can easily manage hybrid collaboration and explore new possibilities for working together on complex projects worldwide in real-time. Such online tools enable us to revolutionize global team collaboration.

Many users are already happily employing the Object Freezing Feature. Conceptboard continues to work on optimizing visualization. The needs and experiences of our customers lay the foundation for ever-new, innovative features.

Photo credits: Conceptboard

The Vaillant Group, a leading manufacturer of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology, with a 150-year history of technological innovation, reimagined the concept of knowledge management using Conceptboard, the GDPR-compliant collaboration tool. Instead of one-sided, manual documentation, the Vaillant Group embraced creativity, joy, and teamwork to build, store, and simultaneously develop knowledge, sharing it with other teams—all within a single tool.

Efficient Knowledge Management Takes Priority

Collectively building, securing, and continuously developing knowledge is essential. This process allows for the emergence of new ideas and improvements in products. To actively foster the sharing and dissemination of information among all employees, the Vaillant Group sought software that enables organized and uniform knowledge management.

Conceptboard Emerges as a Tool of Choice for Knowledge Management at the Vaillant Group

Knowledge is not a static construct but a dynamic process that gains significance when applied and lived. Unlike conventional collaboration tools that merely facilitate file and text storage, the Vaillant Group required software that promotes visual collaboration and interactive exchange to bring knowledge management to life.

Selecting the right knowledge management tool meant it had to be versatile, intuitively usable, and easily accessible to external collaborators. The ability to upload and download files effortlessly was crucial. Ideas or documentation should not get lost and must be traceable in a history at any time.

Knowledge Management Demands Maximum Security

Committed to European data protection, the Vaillant Group places great importance on thoroughly vetting software before deployment. Opting to avoid the use of American service providers and seeking GDPR-compliant alternatives in the European market led the Vaillant Group to Conceptboard—a digital and secure online whiteboard collaboration tool based in Stuttgart. In addition, the customer service of Conceptboard is appreciated by Vaillant, as a dedicated contact person for tool management is provided, along with additional support through training and inspiration.

Rapid Acceptance and Intensive Use of Conceptboard

The intuitive and user-friendly nature of Conceptboard became evident at Vaillant within days of initial use. The rapid development and high demand for Conceptboard were apparent, as interest continued to grow daily through word of mouth. The administrator team quickly increased the initial number of 50 licenses, with the provided licenses growing nearly tenfold within a year—an undeniable success.

Conceptboard Application in Various Departments

Conceptboard finds application in various departments at the Vaillant Group, showcasing its versatility. Many departments quickly understood its value in facilitating information exchange and knowledge management. Others had specific projects in mind that could benefit from an online whiteboard. Conceptboard sees the most use in administration, human resources, marketing, and IT, gaining popularity even in upper management.

The company attributes the high acceptance of the collaboration tool to its interactive nature. and intuitive features. Everyone can participate in projects – whether they’re working on-site or online – which fosters a sense of connection to the tool.

The Vaillant Group teams use Conceptboard, for example, to collaboratively develop their strategy, focusing on establishing a clear direction and pinpointing areas for improvement. The collaboration tool fosters exchanges that enhance the collaborative process, enabling teams to create something unified rather than working individually. This approach not only enriches the experience but also makes processes more enjoyable and immediately tangible.

Full Empowerment: Workforce Self-Education

The Vaillant Group’s emphasis on sharing knowledge is evident in the tool’s rapid development. All employees regularly access existing boards from their colleagues to seek inspiration for their projects and use cases. This way, everyone acquires new knowledge about Conceptboard’s various functions quickly and effortlessly.

We are delighted and proud of the successful collaboration with the Vaillant Group!

Is KI the key to transformation?

Many cities around the world are turning to artificial intelligence to make processes more efficient and citizen-friendly. There is no shortage of inspiring ideas, as international benchmarking projects have shown.

In Germany, too, many cities and municipalities are looking to the future and working to modernise and digitise the public sector using innovative information and communication technologies.

Digitalisation in government: Still missing the turbo

The potential for digitising public processes is enormous. However, not all ministries, offices, authorities, governments or municipal institutions such as town halls or public administrations are desiring change. Often, the status quo is being maintained or automation is progressing only in small steps.

The call is for “more change, please” and for all those who are hesitating to recognise and exploit the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence and to use agile processes to bring about change. How can digital progress be made meaningful? By understanding and using KI as a game changer.

Artificial intelligence as a game changer

A modern, fast and efficient city administration is one of the most important locational advantages. Here, the world needs pioneers who show how automation and digitalisation can generate added value and what can already be implemented with a well-thought-out KI approach. The following examples may serve as examples:

USA: Vision Zero for safe routes to school in L.A.

Every fifth person seriously injured in traffic accidents in Los Angeles is a schoolchild. Of course, the risk to children is particularly high near schools. The city’s Vision Zero initiative aims to reduce the number of traffic deaths to zero by 2025.

The initiative is supported by the LA GeoHub platform: By intelligently linking data, high-risk roads in the city area are identified to show safe routes and initiate targeted construction measures.

France: KI helps people find jobs

Jobseekers often find it difficult to realistically assess their skills and opportunities in the labour market. This makes the job search even more difficult and stands in the way of successful placement.

The French start-up Bob Emploi combines detailed market data with information about jobseekers and analyses it using artificial intelligence. This gives users a comprehensive picture of their situation and personalised advice to help them take the next steps.

Finland: Open data for fossil freedom

The Finnish capital Helsinki has set itself the goal of radically reducing the use of fossil fuels and becoming completely CO2-neutral by 2035. However, the transport sector lacked the necessary information on the relevant urban planning measures.

Thanks to the 3D city model, the digital twin of the city, and the intelligent linking and processing of data on energy values and solar radiation, it is now possible to carry out comprehensive analyses of energy efficiency and solar energy use in the city area. The ambitious goal is getting closer.

Germany: Real-time monitoring of fishing quotas

In Germany, fisheries monitoring has historically been characterised by dispersed databases, media breaks and manual sampling. This makes it difficult to implement the EU requirements for complete monitoring.

The Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE) has created a central data platform, the Fisheries Information Technology (FIT), which enables real-time monitoring of fishing activities and catch quotas in German waters.

Automation in the public sector is not an end in itself

The development of automation potential and the implementation of intelligent KI systems always pursue specific goals:

• Collecting and managing data on transport, climate, health, etc.
• Personalisation and individualisation of citizen services
• Transparency and accessibility of the public sector

If digitalisation reduces redundant bureaucracy, this in turn helps to regain people’s lost trust in government.
The result is intelligent solutions that can often be felt by every citizen and every employee in the public sector, thus helping to improve the public good. Not least in times of a shortage of skilled workers, the use of KI opens up new opportunities to at least mitigate this shortage.

Smart start: start with routine tasks

KI solutions and intelligent software can automate routine tasks such as processing applications, filling in forms and managing documents. This saves time, reduces errors and is a first important step towards the digitalisation of simple administrative processes.

A useful tool is GPT Enterprise, an advanced version of GPT technology. It has been developed specifically for enterprise use and offers the following benefits

• Data protection and security: GPT Enterprise complies with the GDPR and provides additional security measures to ensure that data remains secure and confidential.
• Adaptability: Users can adapt GPT models to their needs and create customised solutions.
  Scalability: The platform can grow with an institution’s increasing needs.
• Integration: GPT Enterprise easily integrates with existing systems and workflows.
• Support and maintenance: Users receive dedicated support and regular maintenance to keep the solution up to date.

When modified GPTs take over the editing of documents, the management of document directories or the management of contact persons, this frees up resources that can be used for further transformation steps.

Technical solutions for more team communication

Applications such as Microsoft Teams, Slack or Zoom can be a first step in improving communication in the public sector. Civil servants often have to interact with several external and internal teams. Here, features such as real-time chat, video calls and document sharing ensure more efficient collaboration both within the agency and with external partners.

Conceptboard as a sparring partner

During the pandemic, many institutions in the public sector discovered Conceptboard as a digitisation tool and made the online whiteboard their future-oriented tool. On the visual workspace, teams meet, collect ideas, work together on projects and bundle documentation in one place.

CDO Toolbox – ready-to-use templates and methods

Conceptboard enjoys the trust of leading organisations and invests purposefully to strengthen it. Conceptboard’s innovative CDO Toolbox eases the way to digitalisation and offers optimally applicable methods and processes that are specifically tailored to the needs of the public sector. Good to know: Conceptboard for the public sector is GDPR compliant and ISO 27001 certified. The hosts and servers are located in Germany.

Digitisation with Conceptboard: Kiel leads the way

Ki:GO is the strategy with which the city of Kiel is shaping the digital transition to a modern administration and preparing the city for the future. This includes providing employees with a digital workplace that enables different working models and, in particular, more remote working.

The city decided to deploy an online whiteboard where projects could be planned and edited in a clear manner, independent of time and location. Conceptboard met all the requirements and was also the only visual collaboration application that was compatible with the touch controls of the Promethean smartboards used by the City of Kiel. In terms of security standards, Conceptboard was also able to impress as the best data protection-compliant provider.

Digitalisation made easy

Conceptboard’s CDO Toolbox helps public administrations to break new ground and become more agile. With ready-made templates and detailed methodological instructions, the toolbox enables all employees to participate in the digitalisation process and thus make their daily work easier. CDO stands for Chief Digital Officer, also known as the digitisation expert in public administration. The boss is also in demand!

Conclusion: Thanks to KI, the smart city is becoming a reality

Artificial intelligence can make a decisive contribution to the digital transformation of the public sector. Cities around the world are using artificial intelligence to make processes more efficient and citizen-friendly, and to make the vision of smart government a reality.

In Germany, too, cities and municipalities are increasingly turning to digital solutions and thus to agile action. The automation of routine tasks makes it easier to get started with digitalisation. Tools such as GPT Enterprise and Conceptboard support this transformation and also meet the strict data protection requirements for authorities and other public institutions.

Find out more now! Find out more about the benefits of Conceptboard for the public sector here.

People with disabilities are still underrepresented

The approximately 13 million people with disabilities living in Germany are still a long way from equal opportunities in working life. According to the Federal Statistical Office, only 57% of 15 to 64-year-olds were integrated into the labor market in 2019.

A key reason for ableism, i.e. structural discrimination against people with disabilities, is a lack of accessibility. Yet the opportunity to work from home makes it easier for many people with disabilities to access the labor market. For some, this offer is even a basic prerequisite for being able to work at all.

Remote Work breaks down barriers

Remote work makes life much easier, especially for people with limited mobility or blind employees: on the one hand, because they no longer have to travel to work and, on the other, because their own home is already barrier-free. But for people with neurological and mental illnesses and special needs, not having to leave their home often means relief and stress reduction.

Individual working conditions also mean that working hours can generally be arranged more flexibly. This also means that doctor or therapy appointments are much easier to attend and rest periods can be better integrated into everyday life.

Remote work can also help to reduce stigmatization, as the focus is more on performance and less on limitations, illness and physical characteristics. This can have a positive impact on the self-esteem and professional development of people with disabilities.

Working from home: where working from home is possible

Nevertheless, people with disabilities are less likely to work remotely than those without. Occupations that they perform are often less suitable for working from home. These include, in particular, lower-paid work and service jobs that often have to be carried out in person. According to a study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), an average of 34% of jobs in OECD countries were suitable for remote work in 2019.

Public Sector: best opportunities for people with disabilities?

The area that is particularly well suited to working from home is the public and private service sector. It is also the sector that offers above-average opportunities for people with disabilities: According to the Federal Statistical Office, almost one in three people with disabilities in employment work here. This is also due to a mandatory quota: public administrations and companies with more than 20 employees must fill at least 5% of their jobs with people with disabilities in accordance with Section 154 of Book IX of the German Social Code. If they fail to do so, they pay a compensatory levy.

Nevertheless, more than a quarter of companies in Germany that are obliged to do so do not employ people with disabilities. In line with their social responsibility, public employers have further special obligations in the application process. According to Section 165 sentence 2 SGB IX, they must invite severely disabled people who apply for a job to an interview if they are suitable for the position.

In the case of disabilities: Entitlement to mobile working

In order for people with disabilities to be able to work independently and on an equal footing, they need a workplace whose equipment and design is adapted to their individual needs. Under certain conditions, severely disabled people can enforce a home office job against their employer, as they are entitled to disability-friendly employment (Section 164 (4) SGB IX).. 

The OECD advocates giving people with disabilities the right to flexible working conditions such as remote work in collective agreements or statutory regulations. The Australian Fair Work Act of 2019 could serve as a model. It not only grants working people with disabilities, but also people aged 55 and over, employees with caring responsibilities and parents with children under the age of 6.

Inclusion enriches companies

If the public sector wants to take its role model function seriously, it should use its obligations towards people with disabilities as an advantage and see them as an opportunity. In the future, it will be increasingly reliant on them anyway, as the current shortage of skilled workers will become even more acute in the coming years.

People with disabilities are generally well to very well educated and often have particular strengths, such as resourcefulness, flexibility and adaptability. They are drivers of innovation, as they are used to encountering unexpected barriers and spontaneously developing alternatives. People with disabilities therefore hold one of the greatest potentials for the German labor market.

However, they are not only urgently needed skilled workers, but also bring new perspectives to the company. They are a great asset at all levels of the working world.

Digital barriers at the workplace

However, if inclusion is to work, it is not only physical barriers that need to be removed. Even where remote work is possible, many digital services are difficult to use, not user-friendly or barrier-free for people due to their illness.

A digital barrier can be a lack of a read-aloud function or software in everyday working life that is difficult to read or not high-contrast enough. If the keyboard focus is not visible, a website cannot be navigated without a mouse or the structure of a website is illogical, this can also be perceived as a digital barrier.

Municipal services perform poorly

For the “Digital Accessibility Atlas” presented in June 2024, around 11,000 municipal websites in Germany were tested for their digital accessibility. The result is sobering. Only 3 percent of the websites received the maximum number of points. A total of 7 percent even scored 0 points. This means that around 770 municipalities are not digitally accessible for people with disabilities.

Participation for all through technology

The use of innovative collaboration tools is ideal for promoting an inclusive corporate culture. These are designed and developed in such a way that they can be used regardless of individual abilities or limitations, by hybrid teams as well as by those who work 100% remotely.

Conceptboard enables its users with or without disabilities to navigate effectively, communicate with each other and exchange ideas without hindrance. This provides support, improves collaboration and increases productivity and efficiency at the same time.

More visibility despite remote work

For people with disabilities who work entirely from home, working with Conceptboard can also make a decisive difference because it ensures their active and visible participation. This is important so that they are also perceived as fully-fledged team members – both as high performers and as individuals.

Visibility and togetherness are therefore two further aspects that companies can promote with the help of Conceptboard: in everyday working life as well as with team-building measures that strengthen social interaction.

For technical reasons, Conceptboard cannot guarantee 100% digital accessibility at the present time. That is why Conceptboard is working intensively on its own digital accessibility – for itself and its customers. The aim is to crack 100 percent through continuous improvement.

Conclusion- promoting an inclusive digital working environment

By consciously organizing remote work, companies and the public sector not only live up to their social responsibility, but also benefit from the diverse talents and perspectives that people with disabilities bring to the world of work.

Even if digital accessibility is now being considered more extensively in the development of new technology and software, there is still some catching up to do. However, collaboration tools are already making an important contribution to better integrating people with disabilities into the digital world of work.

The Accessibility Reinforcement Act will come into force in June 2025. Services and products must then be designed to be barrier-free. This is an important step that will hopefully lead to even more open-mindedness and sensitivity towards this topic. After all, inclusion requires equal participation and can only succeed if everyone can use digital content and services equally and without restriction.

Barrier-free means user-oriented

Blinds and visually impaired people encounter insurmountable barriers when surfing the Internet because images are not described or inadequate contrasts make reading unnecessarily difficult. For people with learning disabilities, the language is too complicated, preventing them from participating.

It is often the case that user interfaces are too complex and prevent people from taking full advantage of the digital world. Since digital participation always means social participation, such discrimination, even if unintentional, weighs heavily. Moreover, full accessibility benefits not only people with disabilities: Fewer barriers make websites generally easier to use and provide a better user experience for all users.

Barriers everywhere: A change of perspective is needed

“You are not disabled, you are disabled” – this sentence impressively shows how the participation of disabled people can be improved: we should see disabilities as a societal task and not as an individual deficit.

This also applies to the digital world of work. In times of home office and hybrid working, close cooperation is a real challenge. So that all employees can be included, people with disabilities and impairments should be more in the focus. To achieve accessibility, we must understand the barriers to using products and services.

Accessibility is more than a trend

More than 60 percent of all e-commerce transactions are abandoned by blind people. This far too high figure shows that there is still much to do on the road to accessibility. The adaptation process itself is called accessibility. It means that websites, programmes, operating systems and applications are designed in such a way that they are fully accessible and usable for all users, including people with visual, hearing or mobility impairments. Adequate web accessibility is therefore part of the duty of all providers of digital services.

Good to know: Search engines like accessible websites. A logical structure, clear headings and alternative text for images improve a website’s search engine ranking.

Digital inclusion: How to get online without barriers

To achieve true digital inclusion, the internet, digital documents and mobile applications need to be accessible to everyone. Employers are therefore called upon to create a barrier-free IT environment for all employees in the company and to adapt work processes accordingly.
The toolkit for an inclusive web environment includes a range of functional and design measures.

• Technical modifications: Adapting the code and structure of websites and software to ensure compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers and magnifiers.
• Visual adjustments: Colour schemes and font sizes that are easy for people with visual impairments to read, including adequate contrast.
• Auditive adjustments: Captions or transcripts for video and audio content to enable access for people with hearing impairments.
• Enhanced usability: navigation without a mouse to facilitate use by people with motor impairments
• Improved intelligibility: Presentation of information in plain and simple language, and where appropriate, easier language.

Germany mid-2025 will be the time to get serious

The state has also reacted and passed laws to digital accessibility. The basis for all legal regulations is the Disability Equality Act (BGG) from 2002. It regulates the equality of people with disabilities in the area of public law at the federal level and is an important part of the implementation of the ban on discrimination in Article 3, Paragraph 3, Clause 2 of the Basic Law: “No one may be discriminated against because of his or her disability.”

Websites and apps will be subject to a legal obligation from 28th of June 2025, there will be a legal obligation to provide barrier-free access. This is regulated by the Barrier-Free Access Act (BFSG). The BFSG implements the EU Directive of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) so that uniform rules for accessibility apply throughout Europe. Products covered by the BFSG include computers and mobile phones, TVs with internet access, cash machines and e-book readers.

Another relevant regulation is the Accessible Information Technology Regulation (BITV). It defines the requirements for public administration websites. The BITV 2.0 (from 2019) stipulates that content must be made as accessible as possible, in accordance with the state of the art. The BITV 2.0 also contains extended requirements for German Sign Language (DGS) and plain language. Let us now look at the public sector in the context of digital accessibility.

Public service fulfils employment obligation

According to the Federal Statistical Office, 7.8 million people in Germany have a recognised disability (as of the end of 2021). Many more have a disability that does not qualify as a disability. In addition, society is getting older and more diverse.

In 2023, 1.12 million disabled people will be employed by German employers. Around 20 per cent of these (220,000) worked in the public sector. This means that 92 per cent of the public sector has fully or partially met its employment obligation.

Communal service providers lag behind in accessibility

The employment obligation is already in place. But what about the public sector’s commitment to digital accessibility? Answers can be found in the “Atlas of Digital Accessibility”, which will be presented in June 2024: For the survey, around 11,000 municipal websites in Germany were tested for their digital accessibility.

The testers assessed the degree of digital accessibility because of five questions:

• Can the font size be adjusted?
• Is there a reading function?
• Is there a version in easier language?
• Is the website accessible?
• Can you find out within three minutes how to schedule an appointment for the renewal of your identity card?

770 municipalities are not digitally accessible for people with disabilities

One point was awarded for each criterion met, with a maximum of 5 points for each municipality. The result of the tests was disheartening: only 3 per cent of the sites scored the maximum number of points. A total of 7 per cent even scored 0 points. This means that around 770 municipalities are not digitally accessible for people with disabilities.

Adapt digital strategy? Conceptboard helps catch up

Ministries, agencies, authorities, governments or municipal institutions are certainly at different stages of development. However, those with a need to catch up can adapt their digital strategy accordingly. In particular, it can be helpful to use tools that can also be used optimally by people with disabilities. A tried and tested and safe tool is the virtual whiteboard from Conceptboard.

True collaboration knows no boundaries

As a leading manufacturer of secure collaboration software, Conceptboard is responsible for ensuring that everyone can use the application equally and without restrictions. The online whiteboard enables its users with and without disabilities to navigate effectively, communicate with each other and exchange ideas freely. Working with the collaboration tool ensures active and visible participation and allows everyone in the team to communicate at eye level. Graphics and images are provided with alternative text for the visually impaired.

Conceptboard is working hard on accessibility

For technical reasons, Conceptboard cannot guarantee 100% digital accessibility at the moment. However, the company is working intensively on its own digital accessibility – for itself and its customers. The goal is to reach the 100% mark through continuous improvement.

Conclusion: Digital accessibility is the order of the day

Digital accessibility is essential for an inclusive society, online and offline, at home and at work. People with disabilities face many barriers on the Internet that severely limit their participation. Measures for digital accessibility, such as the adaptation of websites, software and IT structures, are not only ethically necessary, but also legally required, in particular by the BFSG and the BITV. The deadline is 28. June 2025.

Despite progress in terms of inclusiveness, for example through compulsory employment in the public sector, the implementation of digital accessibility remains inadequate in many areas, particularly at local level. Companies and institutions must adapt their digital strategies to ensure digital participation for all. Developers like Conceptboard are working to provide and continuously improve digital accessibility.

1. clearly defined communication guidelines

In a hybrid environment, clear and transparent communication is crucial. Organisations should set guidelines for communication, including preferred communication channels, response time expectations and the use of collaboration tools and platforms. This will help to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that all team members are on the same page. However, even with clear and transparent communication guidelines, caution is advised. Communication and requirements can change over time, so a well-thought-out plan should also be able to adapt.

2. regular virtual meetings and team-building activities

To bring people in a company closer together, hybrid companies should organise regular virtual meetings and team-building activities. This can take the form of weekly team meetings, virtual coffee breaks, joint projects or team-building games. Such activities promote the exchange of ideas, strengthen team spirit and improve collaboration. Depending on the size of the company and the distance from home, this can be complicated. In the interests of fairness, a location should therefore be found that is equally accessible to everyone without penalising groups of employees.

Virtual happy hours and similar activities can also help to reduce stress and prevent burnout. A survey by Mental Health America shows that 76% of employees who regularly participate in virtual social events have less stress and a lower risk of burnout. These interactions promote mental well-being and provide employees with important support during challenging times. Nevertheless, this form should not replace face-to-face meetings, but should serve as a bridge so that the social character is not lost even when working from home.

3. use of collaboration tools and technologies

The use of collaboration tools and technologies is essential to facilitate collaboration in hybrid organisations. Organisations should implement tools such as video calls, chat platforms, project management software and shared document management systems that allow employees to communicate efficiently, share information and work together on projects, regardless of their location. In this way, project management through an online whiteboard like Conceptboard can serve as a bridge that connects teams beyond physical walls. And yes, the project is securely stored. GDPR-compliant and ISO 27001-certified, the whiteboard offers maximum security for all ideas.

4. promotion of an open corporate culture

Hybrid companies should promote an open and inclusive corporate culture that enables all employees to feel heard and valued. The elimination of physical meetings where all team members are in one place can lead to missing a social connection. This can be achieved through regular feedback, open discussions and involving employees in decision-making processes. Such a culture fosters trust and connection among employees and helps to build a strong team culture. As with the issue of communication, the promotion of corporate culture should be seen as a fluid construct that can be realigned if it seems outdated or misguided.

5. Flexibility and work-life balance

Another important aspect of bringing staff closer together is the promotion of flexibility and work-life balance. Hybrid companies should allow flexible working hours and locations to meet the individual needs of employees. This makes it easier to reconcile work and life.
The trust placed in the respective employee to live out their freedom in addition to work to a greater extent offers a gain in satisfaction, which can serve equally in the form of appreciation and loyalty to the company.

6. Mentoring programmes and informal exchange opportunities

To further promote the social aspect, hybrid companies can introduce mentoring programmes and informal exchange opportunities. These programmes allow employees to support each other, learn from each other and exchange ideas in a relaxed environment. This can take the form of mentoring pairs, randomly assigned virtual coffee breaks or informal chat groups where employees can ask questions, share experiences and support each other. Through such programmes and exchanges, employees can grow and develop not only professionally but also personally, leading to stronger team bonds and an improved working environment.

A look into the past and the future

In recent years, hybrid working has established itself as an effective model for increasing employee flexibility and satisfaction. A closer look at the numerous benefits of this working model impressively demonstrates how companies succeed in fostering a sense of togetherness and collaboration, even when the team is not physically together all the time.

The article also shows that hybrid working is not only beneficial for employees, but also for the companies themselves. Companies can benefit from a larger talent pool as they are no longer limited to geographical proximity. They can also reduce office space costs while increasing employee satisfaction and loyalty. This leads to a win-win situation that contributes to the long-term success of the company.

In conclusion, it can be said that this model is not just a stopgap solution in times of crisis, but a sustainable approach that fulfils the needs of the modern working world. Hybrid working promotes flexibility, increases productivity, strengthens the corporate culture and offers numerous benefits to both employees and companies.

Digitalisation with obstacles: Why isn’t it working?

Digitalisation is permeating all areas of life and the economy. From the automation of industrial processes to the optimisation of public services – a well-thought-out digital transformation offers immense opportunities to increase efficiency, productivity and innovation. But to fully realise this potential, companies, public authorities and society as a whole must take a proactive approach to digital transformation.

Germany has many strengths, but also some challenges ahead of it on the road to the digital future. On the one hand, the country has a strong industrial base, a highly qualified labour force and a solid infrastructure. On the other hand, there is a risk that Germany will lose touch with leading digital nations if it does not invest sufficiently in digital technologies and promote innovation.

Clear strategies, bold decisions and an open culture of innovation are required to shape the digital transformation successfully. Companies and public organisations need to rethink their processes and business models, use digital technologies effectively, and invest in the digital skills of their employees. But they can also choose a single tool that makes their work easier. Welcome to Conceptboard.

Efficient process recording and documentation with Conceptboard

The benefits of digitalisation are clear, but implementation is stalling – but that doesn’t have to be the case anymore.

Imagine your team is working on an important process analysis. Some members are in the office, others are working from home. How can you ensure that everyone can participate equally in the analysis and contribute ideas? Conceptboard offers the solution.

Instead of working on traditional whiteboards, using Conceptboard creates a hybrid environment in which everyone can work together on a virtual whiteboard in real time. Everyone can join and work on the board from their own device, be it a tablet, laptop or smartphone.

Thanks to automatic real-time saving, all changes are immediately available and can be undone if necessary. The inconvenience of photographing whiteboards and sending photos by email is a thing of the past. Instead, all participants can follow the development of the board in real time and continue working on it after the meeting.

Virtual project planning with Conceptboard

Conceptboard also offers numerous advantages for project planning. Instead of complex tables and PowerPoint presentations, you can visualise and structure your projects on a shared board. Everyone in the team has access to the same information and can add ideas and comments in real time.

Asynchronous collaboration allows teams to work more efficiently and speed up decisions. There is no need to send documents and emails back and forth as everything is stored centrally on Conceptboard.

Conceptboard is the missing piece of the puzzle on the road to digitalisation. It enables seamless collaboration, regardless of time and place, and helps teams to work more efficiently and productively.

A safe for the future

It may be a big step to say goodbye to the old files in the cupboard and store the information as data. After all, they were very safe in your own office. However, digital transformation does not mean that all data is freely accessible without the old wooden walls, but can rest well protected with Conceptboard. Both GDPR-compliant and ISO 27001-certified, the online whiteboard offers levels of security that make a cabinet obsolete.

Once all relevant files have been transferred, Conceptboard opens up collaboration that simplifies meetings on site via a projector or in the home office – quickly, securely and productively.

The right way – Conceptboard

Conceptboard is not just another collaboration tool, but a crucial element for the successful implementation of your digitalisation strategy. Thanks to its seamless integration into your day-to-day work, the whiteboard enables efficient collaboration, transparent communication and successful project implementation. Digital change therefore does not have to be a problematic myth, but can open up new opportunities with Conceptboard to complete a long-forgotten puzzle.

Why cybersecurity must be a priority now

Explosive increase in cyberattacks

Cyberattacks are increasing in frequency and complexity. Reports indicate that the number of attacks on organisations and individuals worldwide is rising sharply every year. These attacks result in significant financial losses, reputational damage and, in the worst cases, threats to national security. Examples such as the WannaCry ransomware attack and the Equifax data breach illustrate the far-reaching consequences of inadequate security precautions.

New attack vectors through home office

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world of work and made working from home the norm. This change has created new attack vectors, as home networks are often less secure than corporate networks. Cybercriminals are exploiting these vulnerabilities to access sensitive data and damage organisations. It is therefore important to invest in tools that prioritise security. Conceptboard is GDPR-compliant and ISO 27001 certified, which means that all files and projects can be used securely even when working from home.

Critical infrastructures under attack

Critical infrastructures such as energy suppliers, waterworks and transport systems are increasingly networked and therefore vulnerable to cyberattacks. A successful attack on these systems could have catastrophic consequences, from widespread power outages to disruptions in water supply and transport.

The greatest challenges in cybersecurity

1. Increasing complexity of threats

Cyber criminals are constantly developing new and more sophisticated methods to penetrate systems and cause damage. Advanced persistent threats (APTs), which remain undetected for long periods of time, and zero-day exploits, which utilise unknown security vulnerabilities, are just two examples of the increasing complexity of threats.

2. Shortage of skilled labour

The shortage of qualified cybersecurity experts is a global problem. According to the (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study, there is a global shortage of millions of professionals in this field. This shortage makes it difficult for companies and governments to adequately respond to threats and protect their systems.

3. Outdated systems and software

Many organisations are still using outdated systems and software that are vulnerable to cyberattacks. These systems may no longer receive security updates, making them easy targets for attackers.

4. Human error

Human error is one of the most common causes of security incidents. This can range from using weak passwords, to clicking on phishing links, to misconfiguration of security systems.

Urgent solutions to improve cybersecurity

1. Education and training

One of the most important ways to improve cybersecurity is to educate and train employees. Awareness training can help reduce the risk of human error and sensitise employees to potential threats.

2. Up-to-date security software and tools

Using up-to-date security software and tools is crucial. This includes antivirus programmes, firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS) and security information and event management (SIEM) solutions. Regular updates and patches are essential to close security gaps.

3. Strong password policies

Strong password policies and the use of two-factor authentication (2FA) can significantly improve account protection. Passwords should be complex, unique and changed regularly.

4. Security assessment and audits

Regular security assessments and audits can uncover vulnerabilities in systems and networks. Penetration tests and vulnerability analyses are important tools for identifying and eliminating security gaps.

5. Incident response plan

A comprehensive incident response plan is critical to responding quickly and effectively to security incidents. This plan should include clear instructions for identifying, containing and resolving incidents and for communicating with affected parties and authorities.

6. Encryption and data backup

Encrypting sensitive data can help to protect it from unauthorised access. Regular backups should also be carried out to minimise data loss in the event of an attack.

7. Collaboration and information sharing

Collaboration and information sharing between companies, governments and security organisations is crucial to detect and prevent threats at an early stage. Platforms and networks such as the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) play an important role in the coordination of cybersecurity measures.

The future of cybersecurity

The future of cybersecurity will be strongly characterised by new technologies and trends. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are increasingly being used to detect and respond to threats in real time. These technologies can analyse large amounts of data and identify unusual patterns that could indicate an attack.

Blockchain technology also offers promising opportunities for cybersecurity. Due to its decentralised and transparent nature, blockchain can help ensure data integrity and prevent tampering.

Another important trend is the increased focus on data protection and compliance. Laws such as the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) set high standards for the handling of personal data and force companies to improve their security practices.

It’s time to act

The threats in the digital world are real and growing. Cybersecurity is no longer an optional extra, but an urgent necessity. Companies and governments must act immediately to protect their systems and data. Through targeted measures such as training, the use of up-to-date security solutions and the development of comprehensive security strategies, organisations can improve their resilience to cyberattacks.

The advancement of technology presents both new opportunities and challenges. It is the responsibility of organisations, governments and individuals to be proactive and take the necessary steps to protect themselves in an increasingly connected world. Only through concerted efforts and continuous adaptation to new threats can we ensure a secure digital future.

Now is the time to act – the security of our digital world depends on it.

Try Conceptboard today and play it safe to strengthen your cybersecurity, increase collaboration and work across locations.

The vision of the OZG 2.0

The original OZG set the framework for the digitalisation of administrative services. It obliged the federal government, federal states and local authorities to offer all services digitally via corresponding administrative portals by the end of 2022. Despite major progress, however, it became clear that realising the ambitious goals would require more time, an improved strategy and the right project management tools.

The OZG 2.0 addresses these weaknesses and adds new priorities to the previous goals:

1. increasing efficiency: The further development of digital infrastructures will make administrative processes more efficient and user-friendly.
2. expanding the range of services: In addition to the services already digitalised, further services are to be made available online.
3. maximum security and data protection: As digitalisation increases, so does the importance of IT security and data protection, which are given even greater consideration in OZG 2.0.

The role of FIM in OZG 2.0

A central element of the OZG 2.0 is the Federal Information Management (FIM). FIM serves to develop and provide comprehensible citizen information, uniform data fields for forms and standardised processes for administrative services. With the help of FIM, the translation and implementation costs of legal requirements can be significantly reduced. To support the implementation of digital administrative processes, Conceptboard has developed a template for Federal Information Management together with Lindner Consult: the FIM template.

What is the Conceptboard FIM template?

The FIM template provides a standardised format that bundles together all the information and step-by-step instructions for the provision of administrative services. It contains:

• Processes: From identifying the administrative service to process creation, the template provides detailed outlines required to provide an administrative service.
  
• Data fields: Support for the standardised specification of the required data fields and their structure.
• Legal provisions: References to the legal basis and requirements for the respective administrative service.

Use template now

This standardisation ensures that administrative services can be provided uniformly and comprehensibly throughout Germany.

Advantages of the FIM template

The FIM template has a number of advantages that contribute significantly to the success of OZG 2.0:

1. standardisation and interoperability: the uniform structuring of information and processes significantly improves interoperability and collaboration between different administrative levels and areas. This not only facilitates the integration of new digital solutions, but also the exchange of data.
2. efficiency and cost savings: standardised processes and data sets make it possible to digitise administrative services faster and more cost-effectively. 
3. user-friendliness: A standardised structure of digital administrative services ensures greater user-friendliness. Citizens and companies benefit from clearly structured processes and comprehensible information offerings.
4. faster implementation: With the ready-made template, digital administrative services can be developed and provided more quickly. This is particularly beneficial in times of the pandemic and the growing demand for digital solutions.
5. quality assurance: The FIM template also contains references to legal regulations and requirements. This helps to ensure that digital administrative services comply with legal requirements and are therefore legally compliant.

Practical examples for the application 

To make the advantages of the FIM template more tangible, it is worth having a look at specific use cases:

Example 1: Online registration of commercial enterprises

By using the FIM template, the process steps can be clearly defined and standardised. As a result, business registrations can now be carried out online in a standardised and efficient manner throughout Germany. This saves companies time and effort, while administrations benefit from the reduced processing time.

Example 2: Digital building permits

The complex requirements and processes are simplified by standardised data records and process descriptions. This not only shortens processing times, but also increases the transparency and traceability of approval procedures.

Try Conceptboard’s Federal Information Management template now and find out how you can improve your administrative performance.

Challenges and outlook

Despite the many benefits and advances, there are also challenges that need to be overcome in the context of the OZG 2.0 and the use of the FIM template:

• Adaptation of existing systems: Many administrations are still working with outdated IT systems that are not easily compatible with the new standards. Investments and training are necessary here to make the changeover a success.
• Acceptance and participation: The successful implementation of OZG 2.0 also depends on the acceptance and active participation of all stakeholders. Close cooperation between the federal government, federal states and local authorities as well as the involvement of citizens and companies is required.
• Continuous further development: Digitalisation is an ongoing process. It is therefore important that the FIM templates are regularly reviewed and adapted to new technological and legal developments.

Efficient and citizen-friendly: OZG 2.0 and FIM create the basis for future-proof administration

The OZG 2.0 and the FIM mark a significant step towards a modern, efficient and citizen-friendly administration in Germany. The standardisation of processes and data records not only increases the efficiency and quality of administrative services, but also lays the foundation for future-proof digitalisation. Despite the initial challenges, the FIM template offers a solid basis on which the vision of a fully digitalised administration can become a reality. The coming years will show how well this vision can be put into practice and how the digital transformation of public administration can be driven forward.

You can find more information on this topic here.

What is an Online Whiteboard?

An online whiteboard is a digital tool that allows users to work together on a virtual canvas. These platforms offer various features that make it easier for teams to collaborate, develop ideas and manage projects efficiently. Unlike physical whiteboards, online whiteboards are accessible at any time and from anywhere, making them particularly useful for remote and hybrid working environments.

A key feature of online whiteboards is the ability to collaborate in real time. Multiple users can work on the same screen at the same time, regardless of where they are located. This encourages interaction and joint brainstorming, as all participants can share and develop their ideas immediately. This real-time feature is particularly valuable in meetings and workshops where quick decision-making and creative collaboration are required.

The visual tools that online whiteboards offer are another great advantage. Users can write with digital pens, add text boxes and shapes, and create diagrams and mind maps. These tools make it easier to visualise ideas and concepts and help to present complex information in a structured way. This can be particularly useful in creative industries and project planning, where visual representations are often crucial for understanding and developing ideas.

Another important feature of online whiteboards is their integration into other work and communication tools. Many online whiteboards can be seamlessly integrated into platforms such as Slack, Microsoft Teams and Trello. This integration enables teams to use all their tools centrally and optimise the workflow. Project progress can be documented directly on the whiteboard and immediately transferred to the relevant management or communication channels.

Conceptboard is a role model for a powerful online whiteboard. Conceptboard provides an infinite canvas that allows users to organise large amounts of information and ideas. With features such as real-time comments and chats, different templates for different use cases and easy integration with common work platforms, Conceptboard ensures that teams can collaborate efficiently and creatively. In addition, all data is protected by the GDPR-compliant and ISO 27001-certified whiteboard.

Another advantage of online whiteboards is the improved transparency and traceability. All changes and progress are automatically saved, and previous versions can be easily tracked. This increases accountability within the team and makes it easier to identify and solve problems quickly.

As well as improving collaboration and transparency, online whiteboards also offer a cost-effective solution for organisations. They eliminate the need for physical meetings and allow teams to work from anywhere. This saves travelling costs and reduces the logistical effort associated with physical meetings. In addition, by using online whiteboards, organisations can reduce their operating costs while increasing the productivity and efficiency of their teams.

Overall, online whiteboards are an indispensable tool in the modern working world. They promote collaboration, improve creativity, offer flexibility and transparency and are cost-efficient. Through integration into existing workflows and the ability to work from anywhere, they enable teams to organise their projects successfully and innovatively.

Possible uses of Online Whiteboards

1. Brainstorming and idea generation

Online whiteboards are perfect for brainstorming sessions. Here are some tips on how to use them effectively:

Freehand drawing: Use the freehand drawing tools to quickly sketch out ideas.

Sticky Notes: Use digital sticky notes to capture and organise ideas. This promotes creativity and structuring of thoughts.

Mind mapping: Create mind maps to visually structure ideas and visualise relationships between different concepts.

2. Project planning and management

Visualising project plans and tasks can greatly facilitate the progress of a project.

Kanban boards: Create Kanban boards to visualise tasks and track their status. This helps teams stay organised and efficient.

Gantt charts: Use Gantt charts to schedule projects and visualise dependencies between tasks.

To-do lists: Create to-do lists and assign tasks to team members. This ensures clarity and accountability

3. Workshops and training courses

Online whiteboards are ideal for interactive workshops and training courses.

Interactive exercises: Use the interactive functions to involve participants in exercises and discussions.

Breakout rooms: Many whiteboard tools allow you to divide participants into smaller groups to work on specific tasks.

Feedback loops: Collect feedback directly on the whiteboard to improve and document the learning process.

4. Visual presentations

Online whiteboards are also suitable for creating and presenting visual content.

Diagrams and charts: Create diagrams and charts to visualise data and information.

Flowcharts: Use flowcharts to visualise processes and procedures clearly and comprehensibly.

Images and videos: Integrate images and videos to make your presentations more engaging and informative.

5. Problem and conflict resolution

When solving problems and conflicts, a visual tool can help to clarify complex issues.

Fishbone diagrams: Use fishbone diagrams (cause-effect diagrams) to analyse the causes of problems.

Venn diagram: Create the Venn diagram to visualise relationships and intersections and compare them with each other.

Brainwriting: Collect written ideas from team members to generate various solutions and resolve conflicts.

Tips for the effective use of online whiteboards

To utilise the full potential of online whiteboards, follow these tips:

1. Set clear goals

Before you start working on an online whiteboard, you should set clear goals and expectations. What do you want to achieve? Which questions should be answered? This helps to focus the collaboration and make it productive.

2. Use templates

Many online whiteboards offer numerous templates for different use cases. Use these templates to save time and bring structure to your work.

3. Define rules for collaboration

To avoid a chaotic mess on the whiteboard, you should define clear rules for collaboration. Who is allowed to edit something? How should changes be labelled? This promotes orderly and effective collaboration.

4. Regular reviews

Carry out regular reviews to monitor progress and ensure everyone is on the same page. This can take the form of daily or weekly check-ins.

5. Gather feedback

Gather regular feedback from users of the whiteboard. What is working well? Where is there room for improvement? Adapt your working methods accordingly to increase efficiency and satisfaction.

6. Integration with other tools

Use the integration options of online whiteboards to seamlessly connect your work with other tools. This can significantly increase efficiency and avoid duplication of work.

Summary

Online whiteboards are powerful tools that can fundamentally change the way we work together. They provide a flexible and interactive platform suitable for a variety of applications, from brainstorming and project management to training and visual presentations. By following a few simple tips and best practices, you can realise the full potential of these tools and significantly improve collaboration within your team.

Whether you work in a small start-up or are part of a large organisation, online whiteboards allow you to work more creatively, efficiently and collaboratively. Try it out and experience how these digital canvases can transform the way you work.

Conceptboard in consultancy: Creating shared visions

The pandemic and the associated restrictions on personal interaction with clients have shown that purely analogue communication often is not sufficient to inform everyone equally in the project and to create a trusting working atmosphere. So the Ucon42 team searched for an appropriate solution that not only solves this problem but also provides a reliable basis for future collaboration.

Selecting the right solution

Security is paramount: Managing director Dr. Peter Urban attached great importance to an all-round carefree package in terms of data protection, as many of the clients, as well as Ucon42 itself, place great value on their own data sovereignty. Also, in the area of business or personal coaching, data protection and thus trust in knowing that personal data are in safe hands is of high importance. Given this, the choice quickly fell on Conceptboard, which is 100% GDPR-compliant and certified according to ISO 27001 standard. The intuitive user interface and the versatile features of Conceptboard were another plus for Dr. Peter Urban and his team.

Trustful collaboration from the start and in real time

One of the biggest challenges is to create a clear communication basis with the customer from the very beginning. Ideally, there is a common place where all participants can meet and exchange ideas regularly. Conceptboard is this place and offers a variety of functions to visualise and collaboratively edit ideas. This allows both sides to avoid misunderstandings and focus on the essentials.

“Thanks to Conceptboard, my clients and I can be on the same page from the start. The visual representation of concepts and strategies makes it much easier to develop solutions together that work.” – Dr. Peter Urban, Ucon42 GmbH

Building trust through visualisation: Clarity for long-term success

Another crucial aspect of Conceptboard is the visualisation of thoughts and ideas. “Through visualisation, misunderstandings can be avoided, and trust between customers and consultants can be strengthened,” explains Peter Urban. “What is said remains verifiable, whether through visualisation or written records. Although interpretations may vary, at least the agreed-upon words remain the same.”

Conceptboard thus creates a common basis for collaboration and ensures that the goals and expectations of all parties involved are clearly defined. To also reflect more comprehensive discussions on Conceptboard, Dr. Peter Urban uses the integrated voting function in Conceptboard and can thus shape the customer’s needs even more precisely.

Creating a common basis through transparency

In workshops, Conceptboard ensures creative exchange of ideas and intensive collaboration. “We can focus on specific content, promote interaction, and at the same time increase productivity,” explains Dr. Peter Urban. The diverse features of Conceptboard create a common basis for teams and customers to share and develop their visions.

Outstanding customer service: Personal support for maximum trust

Ucon42 not only appreciates the functionality of Conceptboard but also the customer service from Germany. When a board was accidentally deleted, the team received immediate help and personal attention. This personal support builds trust and ensures a positive experience when using Conceptboard.

“The personal service totally surprised me and is a real plus for me.” –  Dr. Peter Urban, Ucon42 GmbH

Realise visions together with Conceptboard

Are you ready to try Conceptboard yourself and successfully implement your customer projects with confidence? Test Conceptboard for 30 days for free!

If you want to discover more about how Conceptboard has empowered other organisations to boost productivity and efficiency, explore our customer success stories.

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Finding a tool that offers a tailored solution for each of these challenges is hard to come by. Additionally, the public sector places high demands on data protection levels, complicating the selection and slowing down the process of implementing supportive tools.

Conceptboard opens the door to digitisation for public administration. With Conceptboard, you come very close to this ideal, as it combines the functions of a digital whiteboard and provides a virtual workspace. You have unlimited space for collaboration, creativity, and all your ideas, regardless of location or time. Conceptboard is designed to make collaboration, especially in public administration, more efficient, transparent, and inspiring.

Conceptboard – the Jack-of-All-Trades for Digital Public Administration

Conceptboard is the place where employees from cities, municipalities, ministries, and authorities lead projects to success digitally and hybrid, solve problems together, and collaborate creatively. The intuitive and simple user interface ensures that all users become digital collaboration professionals in no time.

Moreover, the online whiteboard is suitable for use at all municipal levels. Whether in the office or in the field, Conceptboard can support digitisation and, above all, simplify everyday work.

Central Administration: Visualising Complex Processes Clearly

• Development of new processes for the implementation of ordinances and laws: Conceptboard enables you and all stakeholders to clearly visualise processes. Work together with your team to jointly finalise processes for the implementation of ordinances and laws. For specific requirements from public administration, such as the Federal Information Management (FIM), Conceptboard offers its own templates that provide support for implementation and significantly accelerate the process. Thanks to more than 150 ready-made templates, additional methods can also be applied without delay.
• Organisational charts and structures: With Conceptboard, organisational charts and structures can be created and expanded easily and quickly at any time. Thanks to the mind map function, even complicated structures can be depicted without becoming confusing. Export your organisational charts as PDFs and print them or use them in the intranet.
• Interdepartmental thematic development of digital media, forms, and documents: Create and edit digital media and forms in a collaborative environment in accordance with the Online Access Act (OZG). Conceptboard provides you with a secure platform for their development and management. Thanks to the wireframe template, forms and their designs can also be created.
• Digitalisation and IT project planning: Rely on a digital strategy and optimise IT project planning with Conceptboard. Planning tasks and work steps is precise and projects can be seamlessly processed and documented.

Environment / Mobility / Construction: Shape the Future Sustainably and Without Dead Ends

• More transparent control of waste management including route planning: Routes and processes are best represented visually and require additional documentation. With features such as diagrams and comments, waste routes can be optimised and made more efficient on Conceptboard. Real-time information exchange ensures smooth waste management.
• Planning of greening and irrigation for green areas: Greening and irrigation of green areas can be planned without any hassle through drawings and graphics. Maps, terrain plans, and construction plans can be integrated with a click. Moreover, teams can plan together, provide individual feedback, and make changes. This way, teams can organise and coordinate maintenance processes more efficiently, and present problems and alternatives accurately.
• Planning of traffic and diversions: By integrating maps and traffic information, traffic routes can be visualised and optimised. Here too, teams can develop traffic concepts together and have the opportunity to react flexibly to unforeseen events. This allows the planning of creative and future-oriented Smart City projects to take place on Conceptboard as well.
• Active Citizen Participation in Urban Development and Design: Conceptboard promotes more active citizen participation in urban development through critical mapping. With interactive maps and discussion platforms, citizens can contribute their ideas and develop solutions together. The visual representation of feedback enables the design of urban space according to citizens’ needs. Thanks to Conceptboard’s mobile usability, current statuses can be compared, documented, and changed in real-time during site inspections.

In the Security Sector: When Speed and Simplicity Are Needed

• Fire department deployment planning: Coordinate fire department operations effectively and in consultation with all stakeholders. With Conceptboard, everyone is up to date and can access the plan from anywhere. Furthermore, your data on Conceptboard is 100% protected, as Conceptboard is GDPR-compliant and allows data to be hosted on German servers. Use one of our 20 retrospective templates on Conceptboard to conduct retrospectives and post-operation debriefings. Through these, teams can continuously optimise their way of working and make their deployment planning even more effective.
• Simulation of hazard situations: Simulate and evaluate various hazard situations at events, such as demonstrations or sports events, in an interactive way. Conceptboard enables detailed and interactive planning that allows you to assess and control the situation better. Use Conceptboard as your tool of choice for briefings and involve all stakeholders.

Department of Education, Culture and Science: Setting Positive Examples

• Public relations and events: Design and organise public relations, events, and citizen initiatives visually and effectively. With Conceptboard, you can be creative and save time planning various events, regardless of size. Work with service providers, external parties, or citizens without restrictions.
• Implementation of hybrid lectures with participants on-site and at the computer: Conceptboard enables the creation of interactive presentations in which both participants on-site and online can participate. The use of features such as notes, drawings, and presentation mode also enables seamless collaboration among all participants.
• Design of tourism and citizen initiatives: With Conceptboard, ideas for tourism projects and citizen initiatives can be visualised and further developed together. The features for collaborative planning of plans, routes, and concepts support efficient collaboration and enable positive impulses for the local community.

Health and Social Affairs: Setting Examples for a Better Society

• Integration and Inclusion: Develop and design projects for integration and inclusion visually and effectively. Conceptboard provides a platform for collaboration and creates a basis for involving all interests and working together across different levels and boundaries.
• Organisation of events: Organise seminars, events for citizens easily and efficiently. With guest access and individual access management, all parties have access to your content. Conceptboard not only enables clear planning and implementation but also interactive implementation of your events. This creates transparency, and all ideas find their place. Take a look at our article about ways to use Conceptboard for marketing activities.

Join the digital revolution today!

With Conceptboard, the secure online whiteboard that offers 100% data protection compliance and ISO 27001 certification, solutions for public administration are within reach. We understand the challenges facing public administration and offer a secure, collaborative, and intuitive platform that meets all requirements. Our diverse features and user-friendly interface make Conceptboard the ideal solution for complex projects and processes. Sign up now and revolutionise your digital collaboration!

Successful transition to own instance

Siemens Healthineers excitedly transitioned to its own Conceptboard instance starting in 2022. Having been avid users of Conceptboard as part of Siemens since 2018 – the opportunity to control its own instance opened some exciting new possibilities to adopt changes and updates more quickly and tailor the solution to their organisation specifically. 

During the implementation period, the project team got to work with the help of dedicated support and account management from Conceptboard. The combined team was able to create a user-friendly transition with smooth results. And the best part? During the transition users could continue to use the platform for their collaboration. 

Conceptboard enhances implementation of global employee performance system

The benefit of Conceptboard only continued to grow as Siemens Healthineers began to develop its own instance. The solution has become an important tool in the rollout and implementation of the Siemens Healthineers employee performance system. These whole-company systems and processes reach all employees with methods, initiatives, and training to achieve business goals globally. When the team was developing these methods there was no better solution to use than Conceptboard. 

As the team becomes more mature in their rollout and the systems grow – the ability to teach and experience with the agile and flexible solution has proved very valuable. The ability to collaborate and communicate with employees regardless of location and organisation in an engaging and open way has allowed for new ideas and better outcomes. Overall, Conceptboard has become a very valuable solution in empowering employees to implement the systems and processes of the performance system at a rate that would not have been possible otherwise. 

Conceptboard has the interaction, collaboration and flexibility that allows the entire organisation to meet the ever-changing and expanding efforts.

If you want to discover more about how Conceptboard has empowered other organisations to boost productivity and efficiency, explore our customer success stories.

More Success Stories

This affects many municipalities, which is why Conceptboard aims to provide a data protection-compliant alternative. The City of Cologne consciously opted for the pilot project, as a cloud solution with data centers in Germany can also be a good alternative to a Data Center Edition in terms of data protection.

The migration of boards and accounts to the dedicated server went smoothly, prompting the city’s IT department to quadruple the number of licenses. 

In the future, the city plans to integrate Conceptboard with additional products to further optimize collaboration. To provide even more employees with access to Conceptboard, there are also plans to further increase licenses for the coming year.

Auxiliary board for the introduction of Conceptboard at the City of Cologne

Security and Acceptance: Challenges for Municipalities in Introducing Online Whiteboards and New Tools

When implementing new tools, especially cities and municipalities face significant challenges. In addition to protecting citizens’ information, the acceptance of the tool by users is also a key focus. Handling this requires careful planning and transparent communication to ensure smooth integration and fully capitalize on the benefits of these technologies.

Data protection as the top priority for authorities when introducing new tools

Data protection often poses the greatest hurdle for cities and municipalities in the public sector, as these institutions manage a variety of sensitive information. This includes personal data of citizens, confidential government documents, and other critical information.

Protecting this data is not only a legal obligation but also essential to maintain public trust in the digital transformation of public administration. The challenge lies in finding technology solutions that are both efficient and secure enough, and that comply with the strict data protection requirements set out in laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union.

Cloud solution put to the test

The question of secure technology solutions inevitably leads to the topic of hosting. Compared to on-premises solutions, cloud solutions score with significantly less effort and high scalability. Municipalities benefit from efficient resource management and flexible adaptation to changing requirements. However, the location of data centers is crucial for comprehensive data protection in the cloud. According to the GDPR, these must be located in a country with an appropriate level of data protection.

Focus on high user-friendliness

Another important aspect in the introduction of new tools – especially those that improve collaboration – is to achieve broad acceptance among employees. The benefits of using the application only come into full effect when it is actively used by a large number of users. To achieve this, it is important to ensure the user-friendliness of the tool and to offer training that familiarizes employees with the various functions and benefits. This not only promotes the acceptance and integration of the tool into everyday work but also strengthens the sense of community and innovation within the administration.

Conceptboard Creates Optimal Conditions for Public Administration

When municipalities master the challenges of security and acceptance in introducing new tools, nothing stands in the way of efficient collaboration. Conceptboard offers optimal conditions for the public sector: As a 100% data protection-compliant platform, certified according to C5, with hosting and development in Germany, it meets the strict requirements of European data protection. This allows authorities to be confident that sensitive information is protected while ensuring smooth collaboration.

Would you like to learn more about how Conceptboard is being used in other companies? Then check out more success stories and discover how Conceptboard has helped other municipalities and organisations increase productivity and adopt digital workflows.

More Success Stories