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NL-Japan Collaborative Session: exploring the impact of technological innovation

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9 April 2024
On 8 April, VU Amsterdam successfully hosted an NL-Japan Collaborative Session focused on "The upside and downside of technological innovation for 21st century economies & societies." The session brought together University Innovation Fellows from Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford (d.school) in Sophia University, and Tohoku University, Japan.

In a dynamic exchange of ideas, the NL-Japan Collaborative Session brought together leading experts from various fields to explore the topics of breakthrough technology innovation, design thinking and the visual portrayal of societal impact. Here are the key highlights from the session:

  • Professor Bart Bossink shared invaluable insights into breakthrough technology innovation, emphasising the evolution and transformative impact of such technologies on business and society. The discussions underscored the importance of responsible technology deployment and highlighted compelling examples of spin-off projects led by VU researchers.
  • Tim Schuurman from the Design Thinking Academy in Amsterdam showcased real-life examples of applying design thinking principles to solve complex problems collaboratively. His presentation illustrated how these principles can deliver tangible value to companies through innovative workshops.
  • Dr. Makoto Takahashi presented thought-provoking insights on visualising intangible impacts, focusing on Fukushima's legacy and the effects of events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the lens of artists like Yoi Kawakubo and Lieko Shiga, he demonstrated how art can convey profound societal and environmental impacts.

Fostering cross-boundary collaboration 

The session was marked by lively discussions among participants and presenters, culminating in Professor Bart Bossink's closing remarks. Professor Bossink emphasised the importance of teamwork, creativity and interdisciplinary collaboration in designing technology that makes a meaningful impact on society.

The event concluded with expressions of gratitude towards the University Innovation Fellows delegation for their invaluable contributions to the session.

The collaborative spirit and insightful exchanges during the NL-Japan Collaborative Session highlight the growing importance of cross-boundary collaboration in driving meaningful innovation. This session serves as a catalyst for further interdisciplinary collaborations that harness the power of innovation to address complex societal challenges.