From June 8 to 10, the 21st International Conference on Design Science Research in Information Systems and Technology (DESRIST) took place at Münster Castle. For three days, the conference featured engaging workshops, inspiring paper sessions, and intensive exchange within the international research community.

Under the theme “Design for better futures. Beyond the science of the artificial.”, participants discussed how design science can go beyond the purely artificial to contribute to a vibrant, sustainable, and responsible future. This year’s conference aimed to expand the boundaries of what design science is and what it could become. In doing so, it created space for new ways of thinking, knowing, and creating that are as adaptive, entangled, and generative as the challenges we face..

The conference theme closely aligns with one of the key research areas of the Department of Information Systems. This is reflected in projects such as the Flow Factory, where responsible AI innovations are developed and put into practice.

During the Conference Dinner at A2 am Aasee, Prof. Jan vom Brocke was honored with the Design Science Research Lifetime Achievement Award. Since 2007, this award has been presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to research and the scientific community.

During the ceremony, laudator Prof. Samir Chatterjee from Claremont Graduate University praised Jan vom Brocke's significant scientific achievements, highlighting in particular his dedication to the community: "Jan has brought people together across institutions, countries, and disciplines (...) and created an environment where ideas can flourish and researchers feel welcome and supported." 

Award recipient Jan vom Brocke expressed his honor and gratitude to be part of such a "wonderful community": "Design Science has always been so close to my heart, as it provides the opportunity to conduct research of value to society." 

This year’s conference was organized by the Department of Information Systems led by Jan vom Brocke, Timo Strohmann, Hans Näscher, Fumi Kurihara, Armin Stein, Katrin Bergener, and Lea Kleinekathöfer, with the support of numerous additional contributors who contributed to the event’s success.

 Jan vom Brocke (right) with laudator Samir Chatterjee (Photo: Julian Meyer).