Mayor Noosha Aubel visits the HPI d-school

HPI Managing Director Prof. Dr. Tobias Friedrich then offered insights into HPI’s work. The institute sees itself as a technology-focused institute that closely connects research and teaching with transfer - ranging from developing complex systems and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to supporting spin-offs. The key, he noted, is that technological innovation should not remain confined to an “ivory tower,” but generate impact in society.

Friedrich also stressed that digital transformation rarely fails because of individual applications, but more often in implementation: processes need to be digitized end to end, and people within the organization must be brought along. This applies even more to the effective use of artificial intelligence: without sound data management, clearly defined processes, and solid foundations, AI quickly becomes an add-on rather than delivering real value.

With a view to modern IT infrastructures, Friedrich advocated for an approach that is both pragmatic and strategic: open interfaces, resilience, and security are essential prerequisites - along with a clearly defined exit scenario to avoid dependencies and remain capable of acting in the long term.

Following the keynote inputs, the Digitalization Council moved into its constitutive work. The agenda included the election of the board, opportunities for members to get to know one another, and an exchange on goals and motivations for the coming working phase. The evening concluded with networking, offering space for conversations and initial topics to be explored further in the months ahead.

The board was elected during the meeting: Nico Marquardt and Dr. Claudia Nicolai will serve as co-chairs. Together with Prof. Dr. Linda Rath, Nico Dannenberg, Dr. Inga Schlichting, Tobias Woelki, and Goetz Friederich, they form the board of the Digitalization Council.

The visit to the HPI d-school marks the start of closer dialogue between the city and the science and innovation hub. A further inaugural visit by Mayor Aubel to HPI - offering insights into additional areas such as the Maker Universe - is already planned.