For the first time, the annual conference by the Association for quality-sciences (GQW) has taken place as online-conference. There have been a lot of research projects of different kinds within the field of quality sciences – among them was a presentation of EQAsce and the University of Bonn “Individual-digital proofs in quality-, risk- and crisis management”. Carolin Schoenen from EQAsce introduced a conceptual framework including the use of digital cards and blockchain solutions. She showed how these technologies can help to continue doing audits in hotspots of system-relevant areas of the agri and food sector without health risks – even in times of Corona and African Swine Flu. This affects not only auditors themselves but all employees who are important in the value-added chains of food production and their hotspots as well.
The request to all employees along the value-added chains for products of animal origin is, to be qualified for what they precisely do. That is to control all risks for the health of humans and animals and to control all risks for the environment. The current situation of COVID19 shows that auditors need to proof their qualifications AND that they are not a vector or spreader for infections when doing their job. Mrs. Schoenen also explained how different ways or systems of proving could be put together in a single medium or access through the digital cards.
The conference brought up topics dealing with the future that play a role in the communication of value-added chains – among them the field of “blockchains as services” and the business models connected to it. The GQW-meeting 2020 including all its presentations and discussions has been a great platform for interdisciplinary exchange of ideas. There have been quite some cross innovation effects that arose during discussions.
