Overview

Solar technology

Systematic Trend Management for Strategic Foresight

The energy industry is changing rapidly: New technologies, regulatory requirements, and market dynamics pose a crucial question for companies: Which trends are.
20+Countries where SMA operates
4,000Employees worldwide

SMA Solar Technology AG is a globally leading manufacturer of inverters and energy management solutions for photovoltaic systems. The company develops intelligent energy solutions for private, commercial, and industrial customers, as well as energy providers. With a presence in over 20 countries, SMA actively drives the global energy transition and is among the most innovative companies in the solar industry.

ClientSMA Solar Technology AG
IndustrySolar Technology
HeadquartersNiestetal, Germany
Countries20+
Employees4,000
Annual Revenue1,904.1 million Euro** (2023)

Objective: SMA aims to further expand its position as a leading solution provider for renewable energies

  • Systematic Identification & Utilization of Future Trends
  • Strategic Integration & Embedding of Trends
  • Sustainable Implementation & Knowledge Exchange

Energy Industry Situation

The energy industry is undergoing a phase of profound transformation. The pressure to develop sustainable and resilient energy supply solutions is growing. Companies face the challenge of identifying technological innovations early and integrating them into their strategy to remain competitive and unlock new business models.

Energiebranche Transformation

Project Steps

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Zielbild & Strategie

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Trend Research

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Trend Radar

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Fokus Trends

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Rhythmisierung

Project Successes and Outlook

Systematic trend management initiates the right discussions to strengthen strategic alignment.

A Triad of Empowerment, Trend Content & Tools

SMA's systematic trend management combines employee empowerment, trend content, and digital tools into a holistic approach. Clear processes and responsibilities enable teams to independently evaluate trends and integrate them into strategic decisions.

Connecting Technology, Innovation & Strategy

In addition to technological developments, SMA's trend management increasingly considers customer and business model trends. This strengthens the innovation culture and agility, allowing for flexible responses to market changes.

Vision & Strategy

Defining a clear vision and a "Compelling Story" to strategically embed trend management.

Trend Research

Identification of relevant future topics through targeted search fields, trend databases, and scouting networks

Trend Radar

Systematic evaluation of trends to inform strategic decisions and strengthen business resilience.

Focus Trends

Selection and analysis of key trends for developing a future-oriented portfolio.

Rhythm

Establishing processes, roles, and responsibilities to sustainably integrate trend management into the corporate structure.

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With a clear focus on forward-looking topics, we actively shape the energy industry and safeguard SMA's innovative strength.
Carsten Gundlach
Senior Innovation Manager
,
SMA Solar Technology

Download Success Story

Systematic Trend Management for Strategic Foresight

For the systematic integration of trend management into its strategic foresight processes, SMA relies on TRENDONE's strategic innovation consulting to benefit from their trend expertise and methodological competence.

Download SMA Success Story: PDF Download (2.1 MB).

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Your point of contact
Alexandra LiepeHead of Business Development Innovation Services
Schedule a conversation with our advisors to find out how we can find the best entry point together for your strategic future work — in line with your individual goals.
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