Info Patronale · No. 334 · September 2025

Secure your operations with Sourcin

In the highly regulated world of biopharmaceutical operations, Bulle-based Sourcin is betting on augmented reality. We meet its founder, Arnaud Schmutz.

Arnaud, Sourcin has been around for several years. What is its story?

Since 2011, we have been producing micro instruction videos and e-learning courses for the biopharmaceutical industry to meet a specific need in the sector: simplifying and securing complex operations subject to very strict standards. With recent technological advances, we pivoted in 2023 to augmented reality in order to integrate instructions into the task itself, via a connected headset.

Can you explain what augmented reality is?

It is a technology that superimposes digital elements (sounds, objects) onto the real world, enriching the user's experience. In practice, interactive instructions are projected directly into your field of vision, and you validate them with a simple voice command. Your hands stay free, you reduce the risk of contamination and at the same time you create visual proof for audits.

Some examples?

Imagine three scenarios. In the first, you train an operator in aseptic filling, cleaning or sterilisation. They see each step appear at the right moment, without looking up from the tank or isolator. Second scenario: a pump breaks down. Your technicians follow step-by-step augmented reality guidance, backed up by photos or videos. Finally, you carry out a quality check: the checklist opens in front of you and turns into an instant, time-stamped, illustrated report.

What are the benefits for your customers?

A marked reduction in human error, upskilling of operators, up to 30% less downtime on production lines and the creation of indisputable documentation for compliance audits. The return on investment therefore comes from lower training costs and fewer deviations. Operators say they appreciate no longer having to juggle paper binders, multiple screens and sterile gloves: the virtual screen floats exactly where they need it, so their attention is focused solely on the task. “Easy to use”, “you almost forget it's there” and “easy to set up in just a few clicks”.

How do you ensure cybersecurity?

No personal data is stored on the headset; it is encrypted and hosted in a secure cloud, and we have integrated an individual encrypted login system.

How can customers access your product?

We offer rental per headset and several subscription packages.

What are the next steps?

Having integrated augmented reality in 2024, we are now working on a recommendation AI that will analyse the data collected and suggest the safest action to achieve the “golden batch”*. We also plan to raise funds before the end of 2025 and are looking for an experienced partner to realise the potential of this solution, accelerate its growth and, in time, take on management responsibilities.

To conclude, you have been supported by Fri Up for many years. What does this collaboration look like?

Fri Up first supported Sourcin in 2017, then again from 2024 as the product evolved in response to technological change and the arrival of AI. We benefit from financial and strategic advice on our business model, fundraising and the search for partners. Connecting with the ecosystem is easier. We also had the opportunity to pitch and present our product at the latest start-up lunch organised by the association.

* Production standard: compliant with the required quality specifications without further investigation.