The forest industry is set for a significant change as VIOL 3, the new industry standard, replaces VIOL 2. This shift, anticipated to go live in May 2025, will affect a wide spectrum of businesses across the forest value chain, including heating plants, purchasing organizations, sawmills, and pulp mills. 

It is critical to understand the implications of this transition and take the necessary steps to prepare. VIOL 3 introduces a new framework for data management, reporting, and compliance. Adapting to these changes will be essential for ensuring operational continuity and maintaining a competitive advantage. Failure to prepare adequately may result in compliance challenges or lost business opportunities once the transition is fully implemented. Thus, it is crucial to start preparing now for a successful transition.

What Is VIOL 3? 

Designed to address the changing demands of the forest value chain, VIOL 3 is an entirely new platform—not merely an enhancement of VIOL 2. This next-generation system will transform how data is managed, reported, and integrated, requiring businesses to adapt their operations accordingly. While retaining the core functions of VIOL 2, VIOL 3 introduces changes in terminology, data structures, and user interfaces. As such, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the new system to ensure a smooth transition.  

At ConiferSoft, we are ensuring all our products are updated to comply with the new data models and integration frameworks required by VIOL 3.

Why the Change?

VIOL 2, originally developed in the late 90s, has served the industry well, but it has become outdated. As a complex system with limited capability for further development, it no longer meets the industry's developing needs. In addition, combining data from different functionalities has become increasingly difficult, making it necessary to move to a more flexible, efficient system. VIOL 3 addresses these issues and will be the new standard for compliance in the industry.

Impact on Plants, Saw Mills and Pulp Mills

For businesses in the forest value chain, such as heating plants, purchasing organizations, sawmills, and pulp mills, the transition to VIOL 3 calls for several changes. The shift will affect how data is tracked, reported, and communicated within the system. These organizations must prepare for the following: 

• Adapting to the New Integration Pattern:

  Organizations must assess how to align their business processes with the new integration framework in VIOL 3. This may require modifications to existing workflows to accommodate the updated system. 
   

• Updating Custom-Built Integrations:

  Custom integrations linking VIOL 3 to internal systems or Excel will need to be reviewed and updated. It is important to identify the required changes and implement them effectively to ensure seamless functionality. 
   

• Evaluating the Need for a Pre-System:
  

  For businesses currently operating exclusively with VIOL 3, it may be worthwhile to evaluate the potential benefits of adopting a pre-system. This could help streamline operations within the new system architecture. 
   

• Planning for Go-Live:

  Given that VIOL 2 and VIOL 3 will operate concurrently from May until the end of 2025, it is essential to carefully plan the go-live event. Companies must coordinate with their business partners to determine which trades and orders will be managed within VIOL 3, and which will remain within VIOL 2 during this transition period.
  

ConiferSoft’s Approach to VIOL 3 Integration and Business Continuity 

At ConiferSoft, we recognize the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning to VIOL 3. All our products used in the Swedish market will be updated to comply with the new system, and we are committed to supporting our customers through this change. Here’s how we’re assisting businesses during this transition: 

Upgrading Products and Integrations:

We’re aligning all our products with the new VIOL 3 integration format and data model, ensuring seamless operations and compliance.

Supporting Transition Planning:

Our experts provide guidance on the updates needed for custom integrations and assist with your transition strategy.

Ensuring Business Continuity:

We’re focused on preventing disruptions by supporting integration updates and ensuring smooth transitions as VIOL 3 is implemented.

How to Achieve a Smooth VIOL 3 Transition With ConiferSoft

As you prepare for the transition to VIOL 3, ConiferSoft is here to provide the support you need to make the process as smooth as possible. Our team will guide you in updating systems, managing integrations, and adapting business processes to meet the new requirements. 

If you're unsure where to start or need expert advice on the changes, ConiferSoft is offering a free consultation exclusively for qualifying businesses. This consultation will provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions and develop a roadmap for transitioning to VIOL 3.  

By working with ConiferSoft, you can ensure your business is fully prepared to meet the requirements of VIOL 3, avoid potential disruptions, and continue operating smoothly within the forest value chain. 

Contact ConiferSoft today to schedule your free consultation and take the next step towards a smooth transition to VIOL 3.