Michel Perrin, CEO of UDITIS, was born in Fleurier.
UDITIS SA was founded in 2000. As a spin-off of the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM), it operates in the field of information systems.
The canton of Neuchâtel in three words?
Small: In Neuchâtel, industrial and economic activities focus on miniaturized products.
Perfect: We have an eye for detail and are perfectionists.
Low-key: We don’t publicize our successes very much. This allows us to move forward without making too much noise, but at the same time, we’re rarely in the spotlight. All of this is certainly inspired by watchmaking culture.
Why did you choose Neuchâtel as the location for your business?
As a native of Val-de-Travers—neither from the highlands nor the lowlands—I’ve always appreciated this beautiful region with its extraordinary quality of life. The canton’s size makes it easy to settle in quickly, while still being close to the city, the lake, and the mountains. When it comes to recruiting employees, this environment encourages them to settle here for the long term, as they quickly grow accustomed to this wonderful place to live.
What do you think of the industrial and economic vitality of the Neuchâtel region?
In my opinion, we are more innovative when it comes to modifying processes, improving what we already know how to do, and lean management than we are when it comes to disruptive innovation. This is certainly due to our history and our perfectionism. However, in the Internet age, it is important to be able to adapt our initial assumptions, change our models, and design things that are different from what we’ve done in the past.
What are the challenges facing your company?
The current global volatility makes it relatively difficult to predict the future, which is why we need to be flexible and agile. On the other hand, the general and administrative conditions for businesses in Switzerland and Neuchâtel are favorable. It’s easy to build a network, and there are few administrative barriers. Certain forms of support, such as incentive programs, are extremely helpful.
How do you envision Neuchâtel in 10 years?
Currently, the focus is often on borders, which have historical—or even nationalist—significance. Yet the issues at stake are not tied to economic or linguistic boundaries. Rather, it is global conditions—such as the natural environment or the climate—that we must address. Neuchâtel has a role to play, as a testing ground or even as a source of inspiration. Indeed, we have all the technologies at our disposal to improve the quality of life on Earth. If we further develop our ability to break down silos, work together, and do away with unnecessary secrecy, our cutting-edge technologies could make all the difference.
What's your favorite place in the canton of Neuchâtel?
The port of Neuchâtel in the summer. It has changed a lot in recent years, and the atmosphere there is very pleasant and, in my view, helps strengthen the bonds that are so essential.
Latest news from Uditis
Pilot phase of the digital ATA Carnet, June 18, 2019