The implementation-phase operating models, work instructions, and knowledge management practices developed as part of the Digirail project will be rolled out in the autumn of 2026, when an orientation programme will be organised for project managers and construction consultants involved in delivery projects. Orientation is an important part of Digirail’s goal to establish a unified operating model for future track sections and to ensure that the expertise gained through the project benefits the entire implementation phase.
The Digirail project will modernise the Finnish railway network’s train control system by replacing the current systems, which are nearing the end of their life cycle, with the European system, ERTMS.The extensive and long-term implementation phase consists of several projects to be carried out on different track sections, the success of which requires common operating procedures and the ability to systematically apply the lessons learnt during the project.
To this end, Digirail has developed an implementation plan for the implementation phase that brings together the project’s common operating models, work instructions and procedures. The orientation programme will begin this autumn and it is part of the implementation of this plan and will support its transition into practice in upcoming implementation projects.
The orientation covers key work instructions for the implementation phase, the systems used in Digirail, and the project’s common operating procedures. The goal is to ensure that project managers, construction consultants and other stakeholders involved in the implementation phase share a common understanding of the project’s objectives, operating models and practices.
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“Orientation is not just about guidelines or systems; it is also about building a shared operating culture for our work.” When experts from different organisations share a common understanding of the goals and approaches, we can create the best possible conditions for successful implementation projects. This shared commitment ultimately translates into better quality, more efficient work and more impactful results,” says Paula Hyvönen, Head of the Concepts, Processes and Instructions area of responsibility.
Experiences and lessons learnt to be applied to future projects
A key part of the orientation process is the knowledge transfer model. The Digirail project aims to ensure that the experiences, findings and development proposals generated in implementation projects are not limited to individual projects or persons, but are systematically passed on for use in subsequent implementation projects.
“One of Digirail’s strengths is our desire to learn and continuously improve operations. We want to ensure that the knowledge and experience gained in each implementation project also benefit future projects. This is how the entire project grows stronger step by step,” says Hyvönen.
Knowledge transfer supports continuous improvement, risk management and top-notch project management. The goal is for every new implementation project to build on the experience and expertise gained in previous projects.
Participants will receive invitations to the orientation in June. Over the summer, orientation materials will be compiled; in the autumn, a self-study period and a group in-person session will be held; and the orientation programme will be complemented with more content in early 2027.
The Digirail project is making rail transport in Finland safer, smoother and more efficient. The project is reinventing the outdated train control system and introducing a shared European radio-based train control system across the entire rail network. Digirail will enable safe transport, an improved service level and growth of capacity, and it will create a long-term technical foundation for Finnish railway traffic. The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, Fintraffic and the Ministry of Transport and Communications are collaborating in the project with other actors.