Internschip | Systems Thinking for Interoperability in Collaborative Networks

Internship: Systems Thinking for Interoperability in Collaborative Networks

TNO is an independent research and technology organization.

We are a team specializing in semantic interoperability between organizations, particularly within Collaborative Network Organisations (CNOs) – networks of legally independent organisations collaborating towards common goals. We advise CNOs, contribute to the development of standards for effective data exchange, and build specialized tooling to support the governance of shared semantic assets.

What will be your role?

In complex sectors (e.g., healthcare, construction), Collaborative Network Organisations (CNOs) face initiatives pushing for 'more interoperability', often driven by strong ideals for collaboration. Yet, successful networks must balance shared goals with vital member autonomy and local adaptation. Current governance frameworks like BOMOS help structure collaboration but lack tools to assess the feasible limits of alignment – the extent to which members can, or are willing to, align their goals, processes, and data semantics. Governance often involves members managing assets collectively ('by the people, for the people'), frequently supported by an independent facilitating body (as suggested in BOMOS). This facilitator requires its own capacity ('variety') to effectively manage the network's inherent diversity ('variety'). Cybernetics concepts like Ashby's Law of Requisite Variety, and frameworks such as Beer’s Viable System Model (VSM), offer ways to analyze the fit between the facilitator's capacity and the network's complexity. Can this lens help evaluate the viability of interoperability programs by understanding these limits and the required governance capacity?

What we expect from you

• Student in Industrial Engineering & Management, Business & IT, Systems Engineering, or a related field with an interest and aptitude for systems thinking and theoretical concepts.
• Excellent conceptual and analytical skills; comfortable working with abstract ideas and ambiguity.
• Ability to synthesize information from diverse theoretical domains.
• Interest in cross-organizational collaboration, governance, and complex systems.

What you'll get in return

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society.

• Daniëlle Keus

  Functie: Hiring manager

  Daniëlle Keus is the research manager of the Data Ecosystems department. She is specialised in leading a team of professionals with a deep understanding of data sharing. Research in the Data Ecosystems department focuses on secure data sharing within large groups of organisations. And on data sovereignty: maintaining control over data sharing.

  • Email: danielle.keus@tno.nl