Mission statement

How we see Fraunhofer ISI:

Our research is aimed at tackling the challenges facing present and future generations. We make an active and relevant contribution to solving current problems at regional, national, European and global levels. We think ahead for business, politics and society, and offer strategic advice regarding innovations and transformation toward a sustainable future. Our holistic systemic view is enabled by combining a variety of perspectives and societal stakeholders.

Based on our excellent research, we are the leading institute for applied innovation and systems research in Europe. We identify important future issues, help to shape them, and influence national and international discourses in research, society and politics together with our cooperation partners.

To turn our vision into reality, our daily work is guided by these principles:

• We work with open minds based on the evidence in line with the highest scientific standards and deliver comprehensible results.
• We are independent forward thinkers and are able to critically reflect on common assumptions and premises about the research questions we address.
• We develop creative research approaches by integrating and combining a wide range of different disciplines.
• We have the expertise and skills needed to quickly take up and further develop new topics and methods and are open to innovative ways of working and new ideas.
• We use resources carefully and sustainably and in doing so we refer to the latest research findings on environmental, social and economically sustainable management as a benchmark.
• We place particular emphasis on job satisfaction, a healthy work-life balance and each employee’s personal development.
• Mutual respect and the appreciation of diversity are fundamental for how we work together.
• We make decisions in transparent, comprehensible and collective processes.
• We stand up for democracy, human dignity, freedom and responsibility in research and oppose any form of discrimination, bullying and hatred.
• We continuously monitor how our vision and guiding principles are being followed within and between the different groups at Fraunhofer ISI and use the insights gained to advance our vision.