The International Conference on Wirtschaftsinformatik (WI) is regarded as the most important platform for the Information Systems community in German-speaking countries. It offers academics, company representatives, and young professionals the opportunity to learn about and exchange information on the current state of research and business practice. In 2025, the conference celebrated its 20th edition at the University of Münster – the location of the very first WI in 1993. The event was led by Prof. Tobias Brandt and Prof. Jan vom Brocke. The European Research Center for Information Systems (ERCIS), headquartered in Münster, connected the conference with an international audience.

Under the theme “Digital Future of Society and Business”, the conference focused on emerging digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Discussions centered on how opportunities created by AI and related technologies can be leveraged, while also addressing the requirements for responsible design and regulation.

The conference featured a diverse scientific program: In addition to numerous sessions and workshops on current research and practice, the new format “Research Spotlight” highlighted innovative projects and the international diversity of the community. A particular highlight were the keynotes by Prof. Liana Buchholz (President of the Sparkassenverband Westfalen-Lippe) and Prof. Dorothy E. Leidner (University of Virginia, USA), who provided clear impulses and reflective perspectives that set important accents.

Beyond the academic content, the WI25 also created unforgettable moments. With the festive ERCIS Reception at the Allweterzoo Münster, a glamorous 1920s-style anniversary party, and additional formats such as a pub crawl, city tour, and morning run, the social program offered numerous opportunities for networking and exchange.

Special thanks go to all authors, reviewers, chairs, workshop hosts, volunteers, and mentors for their commitment, as well as to the sponsors GuideCom AG, Springer Nature, KNIME, Konsultec, viadee Unternehmensberatung AG, Finanz Informatik, d.velop, and zeb consulting, who made the conference possible in this form.

With a wealth of impressions and new impulses, we now look forward to the WI26 at Johannes Kepler University Linz next year.