An academic-industry team present the results of research conducted into the current benefits being derived from the use of digital twins across the entire life cycle of an asset. We reviewed the benefits being derived by the asset management community as this is where through life productivity and effectiveness benefits will be realised. We conducted a review of relevant literature, surveyed 122 practitioners and worked with our industry partner and the UK professional body to validate our conclusions. Specifically, (1) We examined the current application of digital twins in three industry sectors: Process industries; Infrastructure (Civil Engineering); and Manufacturing. (2) We grouped our data according to role types, i.e., professionals working predominantly in the design and build, and professionals in the operation and maintenance part of the lifecycle. As regards the sector results, we found the responses contradictory. When we control by role type, the results are more cohesive. Individuals involved in the operation and maintenance stages consistently indicated that digital twins are not delivering to their promise. We present a series of problem statements to define the current state, together with some managerial recommendations and we propose further work to establish detailed guidance for infrastructure sector projects.@en

The evidence review report from SAPEA presents the latest scientific evidence on the subject of crisis management, and evidence-based policy options for action. The European Union is confronted with an increasing number of crises with growing complexity. Their effects can cascade and ripple to all parts of society, the economy, and the environment. The effects of such crises are not limited to specific geographical regions or sectors of society, and many crises continue indefinitely. Because they last, they overlap and amplify each other. Decisions made during crises are not only urgent, but have long-lasting consequences. Therefore, strategic crisis management needs to be aligned with broader policy objectives. Using digital tools, guidance and standards can be set for strategic foresight and risk monitoring, to ensure that a longer-term perspective is integrated. Better data preparedness can ensure that information can be shared effectively while respecting privacy and security when a crisis hits. To address the growing complexity of crises, we need a vision that integrates both risk management and crisis management. Different activities and organisations also need to coordinate: responses on multiple geographical and temporal scales need to be aligned, rather than aiming at the one ‘right’ level. Here, the EU could play an important coordinating role. The EU can also play a role in training decision- and policy-makers to coordinate and manage crises. Crises amplify existing inequalities, hitting the most vulnerable the hardest — and this can erode trust across society at exactly the time when trust is most needed. New technologies and forms of communication offer ways for citizens to be engaged and empowered. Involving civil society can bring many advantages, producing a better informed, tailored, and localised response.@en