Five questions about the Bechtle Index of Sovereignty

The Bechtle Index of Sovereignty (BIoS) is a software‑based assessment developed by Bechtle to measure the maturity level of digital sovereignty in companies and public‑sector organisations. BIoS evaluates three key dimensions:  

• Data autonomy 

• Technological independence  

• Organisational capabilities across core business and administrative processes. 

The assessment is carried out using software that: 

• analyses IT components and application services using a structured criteria catalogue, 

• performs evaluations through AI‑supported data aggregation, and 

• records both scenario developments and actual changes. 
   

This gives organisations a clear picture of their existing dependencies and risks, helping them identify specific steps to strengthen their digital sovereignty. 

The assessment provides: 

• a fact‑based evaluation of key processes and the overall business architecture, 

• a clear outline of relevant action areas, 

• scenario analyses for alternative technologies before procurement decisions are made, and 

• support in meeting regulatory requirements such as GDPR, KRITIS, NIS2 and DORA.

Bechtle developed BIoS in response to the growing need for clear guidance on building digitally sovereign and sustainably manageable infrastructures—fully aligned with European rules, standards and values. 

Bechtle is piloting the assessment in Germany, Austria and Switzerland before expanding it to other European countries.