Speaker
Description
The forestry–wood sector faces a growing need to increase efficiency, transparency, and trust across the supply and processing chain. In roundwood (log) trading, however, a pronounced information asymmetry often persists: buyers make decisions based on limited or non-comparable data on the quality of individual assortments, which increases transaction costs, raises the risk of disputes, and may lead to inefficient utilization of wood raw material. At the same time, pressure is increasing for faster, data-driven decision-making that better links input quality with the economic outcome of processing.
In this context, we present iWOOD—a secure online solution for auction-based log sales, designed to connect modern scanning technologies with an electronic marketplace and an auditable trading process. The key innovation is the integration of 3D log scanning, including CT, enabling the creation of a digital log profile: a data-supported description of selected quality parameters and a visualization (or indication) of internal defects. This profile provides a standardized information basis for comparable bid evaluation and reduces uncertainty in purchasing. From a processing perspective, it also enables improved planning and optimization of operations to maximize yield and product value from available raw material.
iWOOD is conceived as a modular system supporting user registration and role management, creation of auctions with detailed raw material descriptions, and uploading of multimedia (photos, video, 3D/CT data). The result is a clearly defined auction item complemented by a digital log profile that can be selectively disclosed to relevant potential buyers. The platform covers the entire auction workflow—from authentication and authorization, through auction execution and notifications, to bid evaluation and result recording. Strong emphasis is placed on data security and integrity: encrypted communication, two-factor authentication, secure integration with other systems via access tokens, clearly defined user roles, and logging of all key events for traceability and audit.
The platform uses rule-based automated bid evaluation according to predefined criteria and includes analytical tools to support pricing and purchasing decisions. Development is carried out within the LignoSilva Centre of Excellence, which provides both the technological infrastructure (3D/CT scanning) and expert capacity for process digitalization in the sector. The solution builds on a concept validated in a relevant environment and is progressing toward a pilot demonstration under operational conditions with market actors (forest owners, traders, and wood processors). The expected benefits include increased transparency and efficiency in the roundwood market, reduced transactional risks, stronger trust between parties, and a better linkage between raw material quality and processing decisions.
| Keywords | e-auction; digital-log-profile; 3D/CT-scanning; market-transparency |
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