Keynote 

The Human connection: The essential compass to innovating technologies that matter

Abstact: Software is now deeply embedded in our society, shaping how we live, work, and connect. As a result, understanding users and their interactions with technology is more crucial than ever. User-centered approaches have been recognized as fundamental to software engineering. However, in an increasingly digital world driven by online interactions and AI, how effectively can we engage with users to understand their complex lived experiences and how software we design might affect them? How well are we equipped to grasp users’ values, preferences, and needs, which might be closely tied to or informed by their unique backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences? In this talk, I highlight the essential role that human connection still plays in co-designing solutions that align with users’ needs and values. The human connection becomes the essential compass for inclusive technology; it does not dictate the path, but it keeps innovation oriented toward dignity, equity, and real human impact when technical possibilities multiply.

Drawing on experiences in several software engineering projects focused on societal impact, I reflect on the challenges that expanded my own understanding and abilities as a software engineer. I explore the critical role that complementary skills of relationship-building, authentic empathy, perspective-taking, and cultural sensitivity play, particularly when differing viewpoints emerge. In today’s increasingly complex, technology-driven world, these skills are more important than ever. I advocate for a deeper awareness of how we engage empathetically with those we design for and collaborate with.