Where will the UKAIS 2027 conference be held?

The UKAIS 2027 conference will be held in the city of Bath, GBR.

What is the primary focus of the UKAIS 2027 conference?

The primary focus of the UKAIS 2027 conference is to explore the role of information systems across their past, present, and future applications.

What type of event is UKAIS 2027?

UKAIS 2027 is a conference format event.

UKAIS 2027 – The role of information systems: past, present and future

Name: UKAIS 2027 – The role of information systems: past, present and future
Start: 2027-04-01T00:00:00Z
End: 2027-04-02T00:00:00Z
Location: Bath

Apr 1–2, 2027Bath, United KingdomIn-person

Registration open

The UKAIS 2027 conference, hosted in Bath, GBR, will convene experts to explore the multifaceted role of information systems. This event provides a platform for examining the historical evolution, current applications, and future trajectories of information systems across various domains. Participants will engage in discussions that span theoretical foundations and practical implications, aiming to advance understanding in this critical field. The conference is designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, bringing together academics, practitioners, and policymakers. The agenda will likely cover a broad spectrum of topics, from technological advancements to societal impacts, reflecting the pervasive influence of information systems in the contemporary world.

Committees & topics

Topics
Information Systems: Past, Present and Future

Why it matters

Information systems are fundamental to modern governance, economics, and social structures. Their continuous evolution presents both opportunities for progress and challenges that require careful consideration. Understanding the historical development of these systems provides crucial context for analyzing their present impact and anticipating future trends.

The discussions at UKAIS 2027 are particularly relevant in an era defined by rapid technological change and increasing data reliance. Insights gained from this conference can inform policy decisions, shape research agendas, and guide the development of more robust and ethical information infrastructures. The focus on future roles underscores the proactive approach needed to navigate emerging complexities in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data privacy.

How to prepare

Delegates preparing for UKAIS 2027 should consider the diverse perspectives that shape the discourse around information systems. A thorough understanding of how different stakeholders perceive and interact with these systems is essential. This includes recognizing the varying levels of access, technical literacy, and regulatory frameworks that exist globally.

To effectively contribute to the discussions, participants might benefit from reviewing concepts related to stakeholder analysis, as outlined in lessons such as "what-is-stakeholder-mapping" and "hidden-stakeholders". Engaging with these frameworks can help in anticipating the concerns and priorities of various groups, from technology developers to end-users and regulatory bodies. Furthermore, considering "engagement-strategies" can enhance one's ability to participate constructively in debates on the future of information systems.

Country perspectives

Where the most-relevant 4 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.

United Kingdom

A key contributor to information systems research and development, with a focus on ethical AI and data governance.

Role in topic

The GBR has a robust academic and industrial base in information technology, contributing significantly to research on the societal impact and ethical implications of information systems. Its regulatory environment often influences global standards for data protection and digital rights.

United States

A global leader in information technology innovation, driving advancements in AI, cloud computing, and digital platforms.

Role in topic

The USA is at the forefront of information systems innovation, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, and social media platforms. Its private sector plays a dominant role in shaping global technological trends and standards.

China

A rapidly advancing power in information technology, with significant state-backed investment in AI and surveillance technologies.

Role in topic

CHN demonstrates rapid advancements in information systems, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and digital infrastructure. Its approach often involves significant state involvement in technology development and deployment, with implications for data governance and surveillance.

Estonia

A pioneer in digital governance and e-government solutions, offering a model for public sector information systems.

Role in topic

EST is recognized globally for its advanced e-government initiatives and digital public services. Its experience provides valuable insights into the effective implementation of information systems for public administration and citizen engagement.

Topics & background

The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.

Information Systems: Past, Present and Future

Information systems (IS) emerged as a distinct field in the mid-twentieth century, when organisations began using mainframe computers to automate payroll, inventory and accounting. The discipline matured through successive technological waves: minicomputers and relational databases in the 1970s, personal computing and enterprise resource planning in the 1980s and 1990s, and the rise of the World Wide Web at the turn of the millennium. Each shift reframed IS from a back-office utility into a strategic capability, while academic societies such as the UK Academy for Information Systems (founded 1994) and the Association for Information Systems consolidated the field around the socio-technical study of people, processes, data and technology. Today, IS sits at the intersection of cloud computing, mobile platforms, big data analytics, the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. Governments and firms increasingly depend on cross-border data flows, software supply chains and platform ecosystems dominated by a small number of hyperscale providers, raising questions about digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, privacy and competition. Regulatory frameworks such as the EU's General Data Protection Regulation, the Digital Services Act and the AI Act, alongside the UK's Online Safety Act and Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, illustrate how states are attempting to govern systems whose technical architecture is inherently transnational. Looking forward, debates centre on the responsible adoption of generative AI, the resilience of critical digital infrastructure, the environmental footprint of data centres, and the equitable distribution of digital capabilities between and within countries. The future role of IS will be shaped by how societies balance innovation with accountability, how research traditions integrate behavioural, organisational and technical perspectives, and how international cooperation manages risks ranging from cyber conflict to algorithmic harm.

Key players