ICT and Related Sectors Digital Skills Training Project
Project No. 2.3.1.2.i.0/2/23/A/CFLA/001
Ventspils-based video game controller manufacturer and dynamic startup Azeron offers products that are unique in the gaming industry and are increasingly being used in various computer programs as well. These ergonomic solutions are customizable to each client’s hand—Azeron is one of the few manufacturers that offers keypad production for left-handed users as well.
The keyboard replacements developed by Azeron for people with special needs have not only transformed the world of computer programs and video games but also opened incredible opportunities for people with various physical limitations to play games and participate in society—tasks that would be impossible with standard computer peripherals such as keyboards and mice. The product is designed as a hybrid between an ergonomic gaming mouse and a computer keyboard, allowing users to play games or work with computer programs using one hand. This project was developed in cooperation with the Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism support program.
Project manager Eva Daigina explains: “Currently, we export our products to more than 100 countries worldwide. We understand well that to grow and reach new heights, it is necessary to continue investing in our company’s development and to explore various funding opportunities—project competitions, support programs […]”.
Azeron is a Ventspils-based manufacturer of innovative, ergonomic gaming accessories. Each product is developed to individual specifications, with parts produced using more than 100 company-owned 3D printers and then assembled by hand. Many of the company’s clients are also globally recognized gamers and YouTubers with thousands or millions of followers.
Source: business.gov.lv
What is your and the Adizes Institute’s specialization in the IT sector?
My personal experience includes being trained in information technology. I hold a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Latvia. While working in the industry, I realized that technology can be a good solution, but success is not guaranteed, as many factors are beyond control. At the Adizes Institute in Latvia, we provide opportunities for collaboration on how to implement changes and adopt technologies to ensure the digitalization process succeeds. Changes can vary, but today digitalization has become essential. It involves both improving specific processes and understanding the company’s overall structure, which is fundamental for achieving success.
I also represent an association of our graduates who have successfully navigated digital transformation. We provide a platform where they can share their experiences. I have experience at all levels, combining knowledge with practical work at the association and institute with those who are already digitally transformed and know how to achieve success in the change process.
Why is continuous learning important for IT companies?
From a technological perspective, everything is developing very rapidly. What seemed like science fiction yesterday can today be an effective solution that is economically viable to implement in a company. At the same time, companies in Latvia are also developing, even though it is believed that we are in an economic downturn; development has not stopped. Solutions that were adequate in previous growth stages may no longer fit the company’s capabilities and requirements. It is essential to continuously monitor external technologies, reassess internal situations, and connect new solutions with emerging challenges.
The Adizes Institute helps to identify opportunities, assess risks, and guide the digitalization process, especially when there is an overload of information. The Adizes Club includes companies that have gone through this experience and can share what works, what doesn’t, and what is worth learning.
What competencies are most important at the management level?
For a manager, it is often more important to understand the difference between external possibilities and internal company needs than to master the technology itself, as suppliers provide the necessary technical information. Managers must evaluate whether the company’s structure requires digitalization, determine whether processes are mature enough to be digitalized, and understand the cost implications—investing in digitalization should not unnecessarily increase production costs.
It is also essential to organize internal alignment among different stakeholders: some prioritize efficiency, digitalization, and automation, while others focus on maintaining workflow. Understanding the maturity of processes, solutions, and digitalization is critical for company leaders. The Adizes Institute has developed guidelines and best practices to help companies determine which competencies to develop and which experts to hire.
How are information technologies implemented, and why is it important to learn them?
When explaining the digitalization process, we see how it unfolds and whether it fits the company’s needs. Professionals working in efficiency or finance are closer to digitalization solutions because they deal with available offers, whereas they may be less familiar with the specific operational needs and the variability or standardization of processes. From an IT perspective, limitations are minimal—anything can be implemented with company funds—but the question remains whether it is economically feasible.
It is crucial to follow each stage of the process, evaluate company processes, and assess the cost-effectiveness of digitalization, so internal stakeholders can balance efficiency with results.
What is your vision for the future development of the industry?
Technology is becoming more accessible. Previously, specialized personnel such as programmers or engineers were needed to instruct computers, robots, or other technologies to perform required tasks. Today, technologies are advancing through artificial intelligence, allowing computers to understand company needs and transform requirements into actionable outputs. Robots are becoming humanoid and can be integrated into production tasks, such as moving boxes. These technologies are developing rapidly and being mass-produced. Within a few years, any company in Latvia may be able to replace many routine labor tasks with robots.
The same applies to IT: previously, system specialists or programmers were needed to configure and program systems. Now, companies are implementing AI, which can perform these tasks autonomously.
“So far, we have identified the possible applications of artificial intelligence in our work, as well as its advantages and risks, and determined the necessary rules for its use.”
“You cannot opt out (of AI). Whether you use artificial intelligence yourself or not, it is changing our professional fields and the labor market,” shares Kristīne Bauere-Grečeniga, Managing Director and Career Consultant at Salzburg’s BIBER Bildungsberatung.
Source: epale.ec.europa.eu
Planning, Implementation, and Management of Digital Transformation
INSTRUCTOR:Toms Kalderovskis
COURSE CONTENT:
LATVIAN COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION
Offers a training project“ICT and Related Sectors Digital Skills Training Project”Project No. 2.3.1.2.i.0/2/23/A/CFLA/001Project implementation until 30 June 2026
Applications for new training sessions within the project are open throughout the project duration.Please apply by sending an information request to apmacibas@itnet.lv