SkillsUpp: from academic proof-of-concept to scalable evaluation platform for procedural performance in industrial and operational settings, focused on safety and quality improvement

SkillsUpp is a digital tool and methodology that enables organisations to objectively observe, assess and improve procedural performance in industrial and operational environments. The project initially started as
SkillsApp, but during the valorization process, it was renamed to SkillsUpp to emphasize the improvement of skills rather than the application itself. The solution originated within the Bachelor of Nursing program at
Karel de Grote University of Applied Sciences and Arts (Antwerp), and has since been successfully validated in sectors such as petrochemicals, maritime/logistics training and the medical industry.

Through targeted consultancy, existing evaluation processes are optimised in close collaboration with clients and translated into measurable competencies. These serve as the foundation for digital observation and automated interpretation—without subjective interference from evaluators. The result is a uniform and reliable evaluation that allows for real-time feedback at both the individual and organisational level.

As part of this IOF Launch project, we aim to further develop SkillsUpp into a modular digital platform, offering configurable building blocks such as assessment matrices, reporting formats and feedback modules. This approach enables sector-specific reuse and implementation without requiring a fully customised setup for each client. At the same time, the integrity and quality of the underlying evaluation model remains safeguarded. The project focuses on the development of a scalable MVP 2.0, validation in new pilot environments, legal structuring (including IP, licensing and collaboration terms), and the launch of a targeted commercial strategy. Initial market focus includes petrochemicals and logistics, with expansion planned towards healthcare and first responders. The combination of objective evaluation and sector-specific digitalisation
offers a clear added value in the field.