## 2 Methods  
### Framework Development  
The SE approach for developing a framework for the purpose of gaining insight on SDG integration within the NSVC in this study was guided by the rationale sequence of the six-step SE method [44; 45; 46], summarized in Figure 1. The six-step method starts by 1--identifying needs, based upon a stakeholder analysis; 2--defining requirements, based on needs; 3--specifying performance, system activities, and progress indicators; 4--analyzing the gathered information to conceptualize a model for the drivers of the performance; 5--designing, solving, and improving; 6--verifying, testing, and implementing. Figure 1: The systems engineering six steps method [47]. **Step 1: Identify the needs. **  
What are the endeavors and resources being deployed by the NSVC stakeholders to allow SDG integration into the system's culture and practices? We need to know in which form the SDGs will materialize in the industrial operational structure. In this study, SDG integration in an industrial value chain is understood according to how far the concepts and values of the SDGs are conveyed to the value chains as functioning mechanisms for change. The SDG framework was preceded by the Agenda 2030 declaration and followed by the global indicators framework. In logical order, it started with obtaining world governments' commitment, followed by releasing the SDG framework that stressed the importance of creating partnerships through efficient and transparent communication, specified in SDG 17. Later, the global indicator framework was announced, as a support for the implementation through the concept of performance measurement. Derived from the given logical order, the framework is based on commitment, communication, and performance measurability as core concepts to include in the framework. The defined key concepts in the UN SDG framework (summarized in Table 1) should be interweaved with SE principles. UN Agenda 2030 started with the announced commitment from governments on behalf of the people they represent and serve. Achieving the SDG requires strategic commitment from all stakeholders [48]. Commitment to the SDG is a value that flows top-down through the system. The SDG framework clearly states that multi-stakeholder partnerships and voluntary commitments (SDG number 17) are musts for SDG achievement. The global indicator framework for measuring the performance of SDG implementation was developed for performance measurement in achieving the SDG goals [14; 49]. Communication plays a central role in almost every aspect of effective partnership to achieve the SDGs. Partnerships between stakeholders from all interests, scales, sectors, and organizational cultures require forming a shared understanding to think creatively and ambitiously about possible solutions. Within an industrial value chain, sharing information between functions provides adequate visibility and enables the making of good decisions [50]. Reaching an advanced level of goal-oriented functioning requires effective, transparent, and sufficient communication. The flow of SDG-relevant information through the system will be in multiple forms of communication, which will be unique to each partnership [51]. Business organizations reporting on the SDGs can support the planning, implementation, measurement, and communication of their efforts to achieve the SDGs [52]. The practice of corporate sustainability reporting can raise the level of transparency in communication about companies' activities, enhance stakeholders' confidence, and serve the SDG implementation and performance measurement [51; 53]. The importance of communication about SDGs among all the stakeholders was frequently highlighted in the relevant UN literature and official statements. UN Secretary-General [PERSON] in 2015 said: \"Business is a vital partner in achieving the SDG, companies can contribute through their core activities, and we ask companies everywhere to assess their impact, set ambitious goals and communicate transparently about the results\".