The team of the Schöller Endowed Chair for Information Systems was represented at the 34th European Conference on Information Systems (ECIS 2026) in Milan. ECIS is one of the leading academic conferences in the field of information systems in Europe and brings together researchers from around the world to discuss current developments in the field of Information Systems.
As part of the conference, Prof. Dr. Sven Laumer presented the research paper „No VAR Is Also No Solution: Implications From The DFB-Pokal for Human Decision-Making Without AI Support“. The study examines the temporary non-use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the second round of the DFB-Pokal 2025. While previous research has often focused on the introduction and use of AI-supported decision systems, the study addresses a different question: What happens when AI support is temporarily unavailable after the actors involved have already become accustomed to its use?
Based on publicly available statements by coaches, officials, journalists, and active and former referees, the study shows that the absence of AI-supported decision support does not simply restore previous conditions. Instead, new discussions emerge around decision quality, expertise, fairness, accountability, legitimacy, and the role of technology in decision-making processes.
The paper contributes to a better understanding of temporary AI discontinuation and shows how expectations toward human decision-makers can change once AI has become embedded in societal and organizational decision-making processes.
In addition to the presentation of the research results, the Chair is particularly pleased that Tim-Julian Schwehn was recognized by the conference committee as Best Reviewer of ECIS 2026. This award recognizes his commitment to the review process and highlights the Chair’s contribution to quality assurance and the further development of the international information systems community.
The Chair would like to thank the organizers of ECIS 2026 as well as all colleagues for the stimulating discussions and valuable feedback during the conference.