How can service research help address future challenges in AI, digitalisation, health, and the sustainability transition? On 22 October, the Service Research Center (CTF) at Karlstad University invites researchers, partners, alumni, and other interested guests to celebrate CTF's 40th anniversary and discuss the societal challenges of the future.
The anniversary event will offer reflections on four decades of research, perspectives from some of the people who have been part of the journey, and conversations about the issues shaping tomorrow's society.
40 years of research for a changing society
"When CTF was founded in 1986, service research was a relatively unexplored field. Early on, we recognised the need to understand the growing service economy and contribute new knowledge," says Bo Edvardsson, professor of Business Administration and one of CTF's founders.
Today, CTF is an internationally recognised interdisciplinary research centre that studies how people, organisations, and technology interact to create value.
"Much has changed since the beginning, but the fundamental research question remains the same: How can organisations create value for people? Today, however, research takes place in a far more complex world shaped by digitalisation, AI, and the sustainability transition," says Per Kristensson, professor of Psychology and director of CTF.
CTF's research has evolved alongside society and now encompasses areas such as AI, digitalisation, mobility, health, sustainability transitions, and the future of welfare services. A common denominator is the focus on developing knowledge that contributes both to scientific progress and societal impact, in close collaboration with businesses, the public sector, and other societal stakeholders.
Why service research matters
"A service perspective is more important than ever in today's knowledge- and technology-driven development. It is about ensuring that AI, digital platforms, robotics, and other emerging solutions create value for people, organisations, and society," says Bo Edvardsson.
Anniversary event on 22 October
The afternoon programme (in Swedish) will feature inspiring talks, personal reflections, and discussions on the future of research and society's key challenges. Speakers include researchers, alumni, partners, and guest speaker, author, and resident philosopher Klas Hallberg.
Date: Thursday, 22 October 2026
Time: 1.00 pm-4.00 pm
Venue: Karlstad CCC
The event is open to everyone and free of charge. Refreshments will be served during the afternoon. Registration is required, and places are limited.
