Swisscom has a competence centre for innovation, where experts from various disciplines work closely together. Trend analyses and know-how flow into the strategic opinion-making process and culminate in solid innovation concepts that complement the business units' numerous development projects. In this context, Swisscom laboratories have a pivotal function to perform. It is here that new ideas are tested and extraordinary, forward-looking applications are speedily realised. In addition to several specialised laboratories, the competence centre also houses a certified testing laboratory.