Embedding Human Values in AI

In creating technological innovation, user acceptance, societal relevance, and ethical alignment are often overlooked — yet they’re the linchpins of successful innovation. SMIT (Studies on Media, Innovation and Technology, VUB) offers dedicated support to integrate human-centered design and social science and humanities (SSH) expertise into your digital or AI-based project.

We provide a structured methodology to map stakeholder needs, values, and expectations in complex innovation ecosystems — from public institutions to industry to civil society. Our researchers help ensure your solution is not only usable but useful, desirable, and socially acceptable.

Whether you are developing intelligent manufacturing systems, autonomous robotics, or advanced decision-support tools, we work alongside your technical team to:

• Conduct stakeholder requirement analysis and value mapping
• Facilitate participatory co-design sessions
• Integrate ethical, legal and social considerations
• Define real-world validation scenarios based on user value chains
• Build the foundations for long-term acceptance and regulatory readiness