After several decades with the same payroll system, Region Östergötland faced a major need for modernization. With support from HiQ, the region carried out one of the most significant initiatives in its digital HR transformation – the implementation of a completely new, integrated HR ecosystem for scheduling, payroll, HR master data, travel expenses and reimbursements.

As the transformation began, the region chose to open the door to new providers. Through a negotiated procurement process, a supplier previously not active in the regional market was selected – enabling a solution that better matched operational needs and supported new technical capabilities and modern ways of working. A step aligned with the broader digitalisation trend currently shaping the public sector.

HiQ’s project manager led the entire journey – from requirements gathering and procurement to implementation and rollout. With proactive leadership, clear communication and strong change management, the project fostered engagement, transparency and confidence during a period marked by uncertainty. Close dialogue with the organization and a clear focus on usability ensured a smooth transition and broad support across the region.

The result is a modern, efficient, and future-proof HR ecosystem that strengthens Region Östergötland’s digital capabilities within HR IT. The project has also been nominated for HR System Project of the Year 2024/2025 in HerbertNathan & Co’s annual survey of HR and payroll systems – a testament to its ability to create real value through digital transformation and human drive.

Svenska kraftnät has introduced several new measures to create a more stable price formation in the Swedish balancing market. Behind parts of the technical development is HiQ, which has contributed to developing the automation required as the power grid becomes more heavily utilised – and as production varies with the availability of sun and wind.

Read the full announcement from Svenska kraftnät here.

The changes are being implemented to adapt the balancing process to a power system with greater imbalances and faster changes in grid flows. With the transition to 15-minute time resolution, it becomes easier to use more resources – for example batteries, demand response, and solar and wind power. At the same time, this places high demands on advanced automation within the market’s systems.

To meet these demands, Svenska kraftnät has made changes to the balancing process and further developed the national bid selector, introducing new functions aimed at reducing price fluctuations and contributing to a more stable price formation.

HiQ has played a key role in the development of the new automated balancing system – an important step towards a more efficient and robust power system.

“Assignments like this show how crucial software is for creating a robust power system that can handle both variations in electricity demand and unexpected strains. It’s not just about technology, it’s about building solutions that strengthen society’s most critical functions,” says David Sandberg, Head of Public Sector at HiQ.

HiQ’s operations in Finland has been officially approved as a technology supplier to NATO, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategic journey toward a stronger position in the international defense, security, and cyber sectors.

HiQ in Finland has been accepted into NATO’s official supplier registry. This approval opens new opportunities for HiQ in international markets. The company aims to become one of the leading providers of digital defense and cybersecurity solutions in the Nordics.

The status enables participation in upcoming procurement opportunities organized by NATO and its member states. The approval is based on a Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA) with the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCI Agency), and HiQ has also been approved as a supplier within the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) network.

Strengthening its position as a developer of defense, security, and cybersecurity solutions is a key strategic goal for HiQ, and inclusion in NATO’s registry represents a major step forward. In addition to access to new markets, it reinforces the company’s commitment to growth in the defense sector across the Nordics and Europe.

Strong legacy in defense and cybersecurity

“We have a long track record and deep expertise in delivering cutting-edge technology and innovative, high-quality solutions. It’s great to see this recognized internationally. Being listed in NATO’s supplier registry enables us to participate more broadly in strategic projects and contribute to the development of future defense solutions,” says Minna Lindholm, Managing Director of HiQ in Finland.

HiQ already has a strong legacy in defense and cybersecurity. HiQ’s customer base includes leading defence and aerospace companies, as well as public authorities such as the Finnish Defence Forces and key government actors in Sweden. HiQ is also a member of the Digital Defence Ecosystem in Finland, supporting its ambition to expand defense sector business in Finland and across Europe.

“HiQ brings strong capabilities in software development, cybersecurity, and data-driven digital solutions essential for modern defense technologies to the NATO ecosystem. We will continue to strengthen our expertise and solutions in defense, security, and cyber to meet the challenges of the future. The NATO supplier status within HiQ is a natural continuation of our significant investments in these fields”, says Peter Arrhenius, CEO of HiQ.