The past two years have been a rather unusual and challenging period. The pandemic has taken its toll on all of us, both personally and professionally. It was not possible for the UK Academy for Information Systems to be an exception. Still, despite the difficulties faced we have collectively managed not just to face the pandemic challenges, but also to take many steps forward.

In this regard, I am very proud of what we have achieved while working with colleagues on two UKAIS Boards during my tenure as President. One can only be grateful for their support. This has been a collective effort by Members for Members. Our achievements over the past two years and progress against the vision set out in 2020 provide a solid foundation for the future development of UKAIS.

We have:

  1. Brought online the UKAIS Conference in 2020, 2021 and 2022
  2. Created a new website that reflects all aspects of the Academy
  3. Created a new online membership system
  4. Introduced UKAIS Fellowships
  5. Introduced free membership for members in low-index countries and retired colleagues
  6. Introduced a new EDI strategy
  7. Signed the DORA agreement
  8. Introduced the UKAIS Awards
  9. Relaunched the research grants (4 awards made)
  10. Launched the T&L awards (1 award, 2 certificates)
  11. Launched the mentoring scheme
  12. Organised a comprehensive event series
  13. Brought the Articles of Association in line with current expectations
  14. Enhanced and extended our online communications (website, social media, newsletter)
  15. Streamlined our operations, which now feature an online elections system
  16. Improved our financial position, by both reducing costs and creating sustainable revenues

UKAIS will organise elections in due course and in turn appoint the next President. I would encourage all members of the IS community to be involved in UKAIS, either by standing in the forthcoming elections or by voting. It is only through our active participation that UKAIS can thrive and prosper.

Serving the Information Systems community in the UK and beyond has been a real privilege.

I wish all colleagues and UKAIS all the best for the future.

Prof Savvas Papagiannidis

President of UKAIS