Hello and welcome! I’m Wayne Saggers, a digital innovation enthusiast who is passionate about helping businesses and individuals understand how technology can create real change.
I have experience working across different industries and enjoy finding new ideas and trends that make a difference. For me, innovation is about solving problems in creative ways and looking at challenges from new perspectives.
Through my writing, speaking, and consulting, I want to inspire others to embrace change and use innovation to achieve meaningful results.
When I’m not focused on digital trends, I enjoy connecting with others and exploring how innovation is shaping the future.
Thanks for visiting. Feel free to reach out or connect—I’d love to hear from you.
Previous Projects
Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of leading a diverse range of projects that leverage emerging technologies to solve complex challenges and drive innovation across multiple sectors. From energy systems and manufacturing to defence and media, these initiatives have focused on applying technologies such as AI, 5G, immersive, IoT, and digital transformation to create tangible benefits for businesses, communities, and the environment. Below is a selection of key projects that highlight my experience in delivering impactful solutions, fostering collaboration, and advancing the future of technology.
AI for Visibility and Forecasting of Renewable Generation
In this ongoing project, I am leading the development of a machine learning-based forecasting tool designed to enhance the visibility and predictability of renewable energy generation from both metered and behind-the-meter sources, alongside our partner Open Climate Fix. By integrating time-series data from commercial customers, satellite imagery, weather forecasts, and other open data sources, the tool aims to provide real-time forecasts with improved spatial and temporal granularity.
The primary objective is to enable more efficient procurement of flexibility services, reduce the curtailment of renewable energy, and inform better network investment decisions. This initiative is expected to deliver significant financial and environmental benefits, including a reduction in flexibility procurement costs and a decrease in CO₂ emissions.
By leveraging advanced AI techniques, this project contributes to the transition towards a smarter and more sustainable energy system.
Find out more here
Innovation Highway
In this collaborative project, I am leading the development of an AI-driven platform designed to enhance the innovation process across the energy sector. Being created by Ideaonomy, the platform aims to streamline the identification, assessment, and prioritization of innovative ideas by leveraging machine learning algorithms. By automating tasks such as cost-benefit analysis and project evaluation, the tool seeks to reduce manual processing time and improve decision-making efficiency.
The initiative brings together multiple industry partners, to foster cross-sector collaboration and drive impactful innovation. The expected outcomes include significant time and cost savings, as well as a reduction in resources allocated to projects that may not deliver anticipated benefits.
Through this project, we are working towards creating a more agile and effective innovation ecosystem that can better support the transition to a net-zero energy More information here
HeatNet
In this innovative piece of work alongside Passiv and Imperial College Consultants, I led a project investigating how heat pumps can not only provide efficient heating for homes but also offer additional benefits to the energy grid. The study focused on understanding how the integration of heat pumps affects electricity demand patterns and how they can be leveraged to enhance grid stability.
By analysing data, the project aimed to identify opportunities for heat pumps to contribute to demand-side flexibility, potentially reducing the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. The findings are expected to inform strategies for integrating low-carbon heating solutions while maintaining a reliable and resilient energy network.
This initiative supports the broader goal of transitioning to a net-zero energy system by exploring how emerging technologies can be optimized for both consumer benefits and grid efficiency.
Further details here
High Voltage (HV) AutoQuote:
In this project, I led the development of an online self-service tool designed to automate and expedite the process of obtaining high-voltage (HV) connection quotes. Traditionally, securing a quote for a new HV connection involved several manual steps and could take weeks. Our solution streamlines this process, allowing customers to receive budget estimates and formal connection offers within minutes.
The tool features an integrated geospatial platform that enables users to explore different connection options by visualizing network data on a map. This "optioneering" capability helps customers identify the most cost-effective and feasible connection points for their projects. By automating assessments and integrating with existing systems, the platform reduces the need for manual intervention, enhances accuracy, and improves overall customer satisfaction.
This initiative supports the anticipated 40% increase in connection applications by enhancing efficiency and scalability in the connection process. It represents a significant step towards modernizing our services and meeting the evolving needs of our customers.
Learn more here
TAPPI / Southend Care IoT Testbed:
In the TAPPI (Technology for our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation) Phase 2 initiative, I led a project focusing on enhancing the independence and well-being of residents through the integration of assistive technologies. One of the most inspiring outcomes of this project is the transformation experienced by Paul, a resident at Southend Care's Longmans extra care scheme.
Paul's journey from being bed-bound and weighing 50 stone to leading an active and independent life is a testament to the power of technology when combined with dedicated support. With the aid of devices such as the Oysta personal alarm, Alexa for medication reminders, and a sleep monitoring mat, Paul has regained confidence, lost significant weight, and now enjoys activities like cooking, attending football matches, and spending time with his girlfriend.
This project underscores the potential of co-produced, user-centred technology solutions in transforming lives, promoting autonomy, and enhancing the quality of care in supported living environments.
Read the full story here
Collective Intelligence Project with NESTA:
In this project, I led Southend City Council’s engagement in The Strategy Room, a creative and interactive, immersive engagement tool developed with Nesta, UCL’s Climate Action Unit, and Fast Familiar. The aim was to give local communities a meaningful voice in shaping climate policies that affect their everyday lives.
We worked with 12 local authorities across the UK to host over 60 sessions where nearly 640 residents explored policies around food, travel, and heat. Using digital storytelling, live polling, and facilitated group discussion, participants evaluated policy options and reflected on their social and environmental impacts. The process encouraged deeper understanding, shifted opinions, and revealed strong public support for bold, community-focused net zero actions, like sustainable food sourcing and local energy schemes.
Unlike traditional surveys or citizens’ assemblies, The Strategy Room is designed to be fast, scalable, and more inclusive, helping councils go beyond the “usual suspects” and reach a more diverse audience. The results are openly available and continue to shape how local authorities tailor climate strategies to the values and needs of their communities.
This work highlights the importance of engaging people not just as passive recipients of policy but as active partners in designing a sustainable future.
Learn about this cutting-edge approach to resident engagement here
5G Industrial Accelerator Programme with Ericsson:
I led delivery of the Industrial 5G Accelerator, a pioneering collaboration between Ericsson and Digital Catapult aimed at demonstrating how 5G technology can revolutionize UK manufacturing. This initiative brought together leading manufacturers Seagate, Siemens, and Tharsus to explore real-world applications of 5G in industrial settings.
Through co-developed use cases, we implemented advanced wireless technologies to enhance productivity, flexibility, and connectivity on the factory floor. Applications included robotics, augmented reality (AR), condition-based monitoring, asset tracking, and predictive maintenance. The project showcased how 5G's high data rates, low latency, and reliable connectivity can drive significant efficiencies in manufacturing processes.
This work not only highlighted the transformative potential of 5G in smart manufacturing but also contributed to positioning the UK at the forefront of industrial innovation.
Read about this innovative programme here
Computer Vision for Propulsion System Damage Assessment with Rolls Royce:
I led a collaborative initiative between Digital Catapult and Rolls-Royce aimed at transforming how damage to propulsion system components is assessed across aerospace, marine, and land-based applications. The project focused on integrating advanced digital technologies to enhance the traditionally manual Technical Variance (TV) process used by Rolls-Royce engineers.
Our team explored the application of computer vision, 3D scanning, and AI-driven analysis to automate the identification and evaluation of engine component damage, sourcing cutting-edge startups and SMEs operating in this space. By developing accurate digital models and augmenting them with relevant data, we aimed to enable quicker, more precise assessments in the field. This approach should not only improve the quality of data collected, but also reduce reliance on specialist teams, leading to more efficient maintenance workflows.
The project provided a unique opportunity to collaborate directly with Rolls-Royce, applying innovative digital solutions to real-world engineering challenges and contributing to the advancement of smart maintenance practices in the propulsion industry.
Read more here
Intelligent Ship with DSTL:
I designed, delivered and led the Dstl Pit Stop: Intelligent Ship, a collaborative initiative between Digital Catapult and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). This event brought together innovators academics, and defence industry experts to explore how technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation could enhance decision-making processes aboard Royal Navy vessels, and build a long term roadmap for the future of the British naval fleet.
The challenge focused on integrating diverse and isolated data streams to provide command teams with improved situational awareness. By leveraging advanced digital technologies, the goal was to optimize data usage, enabling faster and more informed decisions in high-pressure environments.
This project offered a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of naval operations, applying cutting-edge AI solutions to real-world defence challenges.
Learn about this fascinating project here
Future of Content Personalisation with global media organisations (Sky, Deutsche Welle, The Guardian, VRT, DIAS etc.):
I spearheaded the Content Personalisation Network (CPN) Hackathon, hosted by Digital Catapult, bringing together media leaders, technology innovators, and industry specialists to tackle the evolving challenges of news personalisation.
The event focused on solving critical issues like user trust, filter bubbles, and seamless cross-platform content delivery. Through collaborative workshops, teams developed forward-thinking concepts — such as YOOP’s “Invisible Network” — aimed at improving how personalised news is delivered and experienced.
This initiative not only generated innovative ideas but also strengthened partnerships across the media and tech sectors, driving progress towards more engaging and transparent news consumption.
Discover more about this project here
Artificial Intelligence in Decision Support Modelling with DSTL:
I led the Artificial Intelligence in Decision Support Modelling programme, a collaborative initiative between Digital Catapult and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). This programme aimed to integrate advanced AI technologies into defence decision-making processes, enhancing operational effectiveness and strategic planning.
The programme focused on developing AI-driven models to support complex decision-making scenarios, such as combat modelling and wargaming. By leveraging AI, the initiative sought to improve the accuracy and efficiency of defence strategies, enabling more informed and timely decisions in critical situations.
Through this programme, we facilitated the application of AI in real-world defence contexts, contributing to the advancement of defence capabilities and the adoption of innovative technologies within the sector.
Read more about the project here
5G Testbed Accelerator for startups and scaleups:
I led the 5G Testbed Accelerator Programme, a strategic initiative by Digital Catapult designed to support startups and SMEs in developing and testing innovative products and services utilizing 5G technologies. This programme provided participants with access to state-of-the-art 5G testbed facilities, expert mentorship, and tailored technical support.
The programme focused on enabling businesses to explore new use cases and applications of 5G, fostering innovation across various sectors. By facilitating real-world testing and experimentation, the initiative aimed to accelerate the adoption of 5G technologies and drive the development of next-generation solutions.
Through this programme, we empowered companies to overcome technical challenges, refine their offerings, and position themselves at the forefront of the evolving 5G landscape.
Find out more about how I worked with innovative startups here
Industry 4.0 with Unilever and Rolls Royce:
I designed and led the Industry 4.0 Hack & Pitch, a collaborative event hosted by Digital Catapult at the Industry 4.0 conference in Manchester. This initiative brought together startups, scaleups, and industry leaders to address key challenges in the UK's manufacturing sector. Participants engaged in workshops and pitching sessions, focusing on innovative solutions that could disrupt traditional manufacturing processes.
Elements Technology – Transforming Manufacturing with NFC Solutions
One notable success from the event was Elements Technology, a startup that developed a solution using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to enhance health and safety compliance in manufacturing environments. Their concept allowed workers to tap machinery with their smartphones to access equipment-specific safety information. Following the Hack & Pitch, Elements Technology secured £250,000 in seed funding and pivoted their business model to focus on automating documentation of manufacturing processes, catering to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) .
Impact and Legacy
The Hack & Pitch event not only provided a platform for innovative ideas but also facilitated valuable connections between startups and industry giants like Rolls-Royce and Unilever. These collaborations have led to the development of practical solutions that are shaping the future of manufacturing in the UK.
Read more about the activity here
Learn more about the impact for Elements here
And watch a video about the day:
Each of these projects demonstrates how combining technology with strategic leadership and cross-sector collaboration can unlock new opportunities and improve outcomes. Whether developing tools for smarter energy management, accelerating 5G innovation, or supporting community engagement on climate action, my work continues to focus on creating real-world impact through innovation. I remain passionate about driving progress and look forward to leading future initiatives that shape a smarter, more sustainable, and connected world.
