The applied research project will be structured over the duration of the program and will require completion of a comprehensive range of relevant elements, including; a review of existing knowledge, a personal reflection and professional development plan (PDP), the definition and analysis of a process digitalisation problems in Business, the development and implementation of a solution within the constraints of the business taking into account change management, process validation requirements and performance expectations and impact. The applied research project will be self-directed by the student with support from the academic supervisor. The completion of an applied research project will bring significant advances in terms of professional and personal development, communication skills and confidence to present proposals and results. The necessary transversal skills (teamwork, communications, research methods, project management) will be delivered through online, self-directed modules with regular workshops in the Institute.

Students undertaking of this module must implement a project plan outlining various phases of the project. Estimation of goals and task scheduling must analysed, identified and prioritised. The project plan must be revisited throughout all stages of the lifecycle. Students must demonstrate an ability to research and investigate aspects of the project independently. A proven aptitude in coordination of, and active involvement in, information gathering, analysis and formal presentation of findings must be exhibited Implementation of the project must incorporate all modules associated within the project stream. In this manner students are guaranteed to be equipped with the essential tools to acquire further knowledge and insight. As part of the module criteria a report must be completed to support the project. This should include the initial scope, methodologies applied and tools and techniques employed, in addition to the motivations for the project.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Design and implement a relevant industry-based solution with the minimum of guidance and support. Identify the nature, size and scope of a problem and define appropriate methods for solving the problem. Identify suitable information sources and integrate existing knowledge and practice in the identification of a solution. Prepare a final project report on the work-based project in accordance with currently accepted standards and assimilate and adopt feedback from the academic supervisors and industrial mentors.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Increase the students understanding and appreciation for the processes involved in Digital Transformation Systems. Understand the relevant regulatory, ethical and social requirements and impacts of the proposed solution. Reflect and report on relevant work activities, training and personnel development in professional practice.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Practice and integrate effectively in an industrial work context, operating effectively with colleagues.

The delivery of the programme will be predominantly online through the UL Virtual Learning Environment.