Driving Digitalization: How Finland's Traffic and Mobility Sector Leads with Open Data, Open Source Software, and Open Innovation

In the realm of digital transformation, the traffic and mobility sector in Finland stands out as one of the global leaders. The reasons behind this success are multifaceted, but at the core are three key principles: OPEN DATA, OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE AND OPEN INNOVATION.

Open Data: A Legacy of Transparency and Growth

Finland has a rich history of making traffic data publicly available. For over two decades, initiatives like Digitraffic and Digitransit have set the standard.

Established in 2002, Digitraffic has grown exponentially, now offering over 100 APIs and handling close to 6 billion API calls annually—a figure that's increasing by more than 30% year over year.

Digitransit Platform, on the other hand, is an open source journey planning solution that combines several open source components into a modern, highly available route planning service. Route planning algorithms and APIs are provided by Open Trip Planner (OTP). The platform, combined with nationwide mobility data, is in use e.g. in Helsinki Region Route planner and Finnish nationwide route planner .

Finnish Open Data can be accessed through the Finnish Open Data Portal . This wealth of accessible data fuels innovation across the mobility sector, enabling developers and organizations to create smarter, more efficient solutions.

Open Source Software: Finland's Digital DNA

As the birthplace of pioneering open-source software like the Linux operating system and the Oskari open-source map platform , Finland is a top contender in the global OSS landscape. The country's commitment to open-source solutions is deeply embedded in its mobility platforms. From the Digitraffic Open Source Platform to the Digitransit route planner, open source is not just a tool but a philosophy driving the sector's evolution. This approach ensures transparency, fosters collaboration, and accelerates innovation, keeping Finland at the cutting edge of mobility technology.

Open Innovation: Collaborative Success

In today’s fast-paced world, open innovation—collaborating with external entities to co-create new value—has become a cornerstone of success. As organizations confront challenges like sustainability, the ability to harness open innovation becomes crucial. It’s no wonder that 55% of organizations report faster innovation and 62% note increased employee agility and adaptability thanks to open innovation. The financial benefits are equally impressive, with over 60% seeing revenue boosts and improved operational efficiency.

In Finland's mobility sector, open innovation is not just a concept—it's a reality. Traffic Data Ecosystem , led by Fintraffic, includes over 200 participating organizations and has gained global recognition as a model of success. By fostering collaboration among the public sector, private industry, and academia, Finland has brought forth groundbreaking innovations, including the globally recognized Mobility as a Service (MaaS) model. Leading solutions. Traffic Data Service Cluster members are the selected forerunners from Traffic Data Ecosystem, with a unique joint offering?for traffic information, traffic?control?and management services on land,?at sea and in the air –?to utilize data and information?for more?productive transport system.

The Finnish Formula for Success

Finland’s mobility digitalization success can be attributed to the seamless integration of open data, open-source software, and open innovation. Together, these elements form the foundation of a thriving ecosystem that continues to lead the way in the global mobility sector.

As the world faces increasingly complex challenges, Finland's approach serves as a blueprint for how open principles can drive digital transformation and create lasting impact.