Service design is an approach that consistently develops services from the user’s perspective: from initial information through digital and analog touchpoints to internal processes. The goal is to make offerings simpler, more accessible, more sustainable, and more effective, while ensuring the organization operates efficiently.

“The conference demonstrates that Wiesbaden is playing an active role within the framework of ‘World Design Capital Frankfurt RheinMain.’ We are proud to welcome this outstanding event following Helsinki and Dallas,” says Mayor and Head of Economic Affairs Christiane Hinninger.

Martin Michel, Managing Director of WICM GmbH, adds: “The modern RMCC offers ideal conditions for international conferences that promote innovation, exchange, and cooperation. By hosting SDGC26, Wiesbaden is strengthening its role as a key event and innovation hub within the World Design Capital Frankfurt RheinMain 2026.” 

The conference brings together international experts, companies, institutions, and creative minds to discuss the future of services, organizations, and societal transformation. Under the motto “Beyond Boundaries: Enabling Solutions That Shape Tomorrow,” SDGC26 demonstrates how service design develops new approaches to complex challenges. The conference program is available at www.servicedesignglobalconference.com (opens in a new tab).

In 2026, the Rhine-Main metropolitan region will be the first in Germany to hold the title “World Design Capital,” awarded by the World Design Organization. World Design Capital Frankfurt RheinMain 2026 views service design as a social process that facilitates dialogue, participation, and new forms of collaboration. Unlike product design, it is not about a physical object, but rather about intangible services that emerge from the interplay of people, processes, technologies, and spaces.

Throughout the year, projects, exhibitions, and conferences in the region will demonstrate how design can contribute to improving quality of life, democracy, and sustainable development. The program’s goal is to highlight design as a tool for democracy, social participation, innovation, and sustainable development. 

The state capital of Wiesbaden is actively participating in the World Design Capital program year with numerous projects spanning culture, the creative industries, education, business, and urban development. More information is available at www.wiesbaden.de/kultur/kultur-erleben/veranstaltungen/WDC (opens in a new tab).