Discover
The University of Strasbourg Symposium
Symposium Overview
As technologies evolve and cultures and societies change, the contexts in which individuals access and use information continually shift in new and often unexpected ways. This situation means what constitutes usable designs is also in a continuous state of change. Such factors influence – and are influenced by – practices in technical communication, content design/content strategy, and localization. For these reasons, we need to continually review, reflect on, and – if needed – revise our approaches to these areas. Such processes should include regular examinations of how these fields overlap and how each influences and is influenced by the others.
Objectives of Symposium
The focus of the 2026 Symposium is Re-thinking Usability and UX: Examining Connections to Global Content Design, Technical Communication, and Localization, and the objective is to bring together researchers in usability, user experience design, technical communication, content design/content strategy, and localization in order to:
- Discuss the current state of research in these areas
- Present the results of recent (i.e., within the last year) research in these areas
- Collect comments and suggestions on ongoing or future research projects
- Explore opportunities for research partnerships with colleagues working in these areas
- Map prospective research trends in these areas
- Plan trajectories and discuss conference and publication venues for participants’ work
By examining such ideas, attendees can devise new frameworks for and approaches to re-thinking and addressing current and prospective challenges affecting approaches to usability based on its relationship to technical communication, to content design/content strategy, and to localization.
Details on the Symposium
Should individuals have questions on or wish to discuss any aspects of the Symposium (or on prospective topics for a presentation), feel free to email the Symposium chair, Kirk St.Amant, at kirk.stamant@gmail.com.
In the meanwhile, check out our FAQ!
Our collaboration with Louisiana Tech University
The Symposium on Usability and Design is the proud result of an ongoing international academic collaboration between the University of Strasbourg and Louisiana Tech University. Organized annually through the joint dedication of Renate de la Paix (University of Strasbourg) and Kirk St. Amant (Louisiana Tech), this event bridges our two institutions to bring global expertise in user experience and design directly to our community. This partnership stands as a testament to how shared academic passion can connect universities across the Atlantic, creating a premier space for innovation and learning each year.
*Please note that photographs and footage will be taken throughout the event*
These will be used by the University for marketing and publicity in our publications, on our website, and in social media or any third-party publication.
