On June 24, 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Andreas Drechsler, a distinguished alumnus and former colleague, back to the University of Duisburg-Essen for a guest lecture.

Dr. Drechsler delivered a thought-provoking talk titled: Expanding our Knowledge Horizons: Taming the Dynamically Shifting Knowledge Frontiers with IS Research.

The lecture invited attendees to reflect on how Information Systems (IS) research can respond to the dynamic challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Drawing on his extensive experience, Dr. Drechsler discussed how shifting knowledge boundaries demand new approaches to research, theory-building, and the design of IS artifacts, especially when traditional engineering-oriented methods encounter the complexities of social systems. He noted, advancing understanding requires “unlearning” - recognizing that what we accept as knowledge may in fact be conditional or belief-based. The session was met with great interest and active discussion, underlining the importance of interdisciplinary and forward-looking perspectives in the field of information systems.

About Andreas Drechsler

Dr. Drechsler’s research focuses on understanding and advancing current and future practices in IS/IT management, information security management, and IT project management—with a particular emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He works at the intersection of theory-building and design science research, aiming to strengthen both the practical outcomes of IS research and its methodological foundations. His special interest lies in the challenges and paradoxes of designing social systems, particularly when organizational dynamics and emergence challenge conventional design approaches.

He holds both his degree in Business Information Systems and his doctorate from the University of Duisburg-Essen. Prior to joining Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand), he worked at UDE’s Institute of Computer Science and Business Information Systems, and spent time as a Visiting Scholar at the Muma College of Business, University of South Florida. He also brings valuable industry experience from his years in software development and project management.

We thank Dr. Drechsler for his inspiring contribution and look forward to continued academic exchange!