Foundations of design for biointelligence: expert insights on engineering challenges and design heuristics

Abstract The convergence of technologies from biology, engineering, and information science enables the development of biointelligent systems in which living and technical components interact within products and production environments. These systems promise to establish sustainable value creation networks that fulfill diverse human needs by leveraging the unique capabilities of both biological and engineered elements. However, the lack of a unified design approach that aligns the distinct disciplines limits progress in designing such systems. This study investigates design challenges to address this gap and identifies pathways toward realizing biointelligent systems. A qualitative analysis of 17 expert interviews revealed five key dimensions of design challenges: multi-component properties, development methodology, competency and interdisciplinarity, data management, and the market and innovation environment. Additionally, the analysis revealed a collection of design heuristics and guidelines based on the experts’ practical experience. Combined, the results inform the development of actionable design approaches for advancing biointelligent systems in research and practice.