The proposal
Your proposal should be approximately 2,000 words and address the following questions as
part of the selection process.
Where – Provide information about the hosting organisation and city. Why is this a relevant
location for ServDes? How accessible is the conference venue for international delegates?
Who – Introduce the proposed organising committee, its capacity and expertise, and relevant
research projects, publications, educational activities or professional collaborations. Include
documented commitment from the local research team and host institution. How will the team
engage different communities, disciplines and perspectives?
What – What is the proposed theme, and how does it contribute to current and emerging
debates in service design? What formats, publication opportunities beyond the proceedings
and social activities do you envision? We welcome proposals that create opportunities for
critical dialogue, connect research and practice, and address complex societal challenges.
Why – Why do you want to organise ServDes 2029, and what is your interest in service design
and service innovation? What value could hosting bring to your local and regional communities
and to the wider ServDes community? How might the conference foster new connections,
perspectives and forms of participation?
When – When would the conference take place? How would the proposed dates relate to other
relevant conferences, academic calendars and events in 2029?
How – Describe the proposed facilities, accommodation and supporting services, including
conference services, transportation, accessibility and IT infrastructure. How will you ensure an
effective and welcoming conference experience?
How much – Outline the estimated costs, expected number of participants, possible
registration fees and sponsorship plans. How will you ensure financial sustainability while
supporting accessibility and participation, including PhD students, early–career researchers
and participants from diverse geographical and institutional contexts?
Contribution to the ServDes community – Hosting ServDes offers an opportunity to support
its international community’s long–term development. Propose ideas, activities and resources
to sustain connections and exchanges beyond the conference, explaining how these could be
realistically supported and sustained with the ServDes Board’s support.
Commitment to the ServDes Board and future conferences – Hosting ServDes entails
supporting the conference’s and community’s continuity and long–term development. During
the conference development year, the team is expected to participate actively in Board
meetings, ongoing activities and strategic discussions. Afterwards, only the Conference Chair
will continue collaborating with the Board and become a member. The team will share
knowledge, experience and relevant resources with the next edition’s organisers for a smooth
transition. Applicants should acknowledge this commitment in their proposal.
Optional video pitch – Applicants may also submit a short video pitch (2–5 minutes)
introducing their team, their vision for ServDes 2029, and the distinctive value of their proposed
location and approach. The video is optional but will be welcomed as an additional element in
the evaluation. Applications without a video are equally eligible.
Evaluation process – The ServDes Board will review proposals against the questions above,
giving particular attention to the contribution to the ServDes community, the capacity of the
organising team and host institution, the relevance of the theme, the accessibility of the
location, and financial and organisational feasibility.
Timeline – Submit your proposal to servdes.isc@gmail.com by 15th March 2027.
• Results will be announced by 15th May 2027.
• The public announcement and pitch will take place on 2nd July 2027.
