Game Design & Research for Business and Society (SIG GAME)

“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Games have been an integral part of learning. As information management in businesses becomes complex and new forms of data and information get generated from various sources, the role of games, game-based learning, and gamification is gaining mainstream attention. The track aims to attract research papers that use games (be it tabletop games or video games, or any other form of game systems) as a literature, methodology, process, or solution for business problems that stem from data and information and have implications in any discipline. As businesses move towards the new reality of metaverse and contemporary businesses gradually adopt and adapt to gaming as an alternate medium of revenue and engagement, the track also invites researchers to investigate how games and investments are helping firms grow and expand their business. While serious aspects of games in businesses are one aspect, the track also welcomes submissions that help and support contributions to human psychology, emotions, and behavior. Games and/or game-based interventions have been studied in the context of behavioral studies, which now gets complex with generation alpha taking center stage, who are fascinated with the idea of alternate reality and metaverse. The track welcomes submissions that link games’ psychology and behavioral connections with users. Lastly, the track also invites submissions discussing the flux between game designers/gaming organizations/game developers, and their business models that must balance ethics, morality, fun, learning, entertainment, and emotions. From a designer’s and developer’s viewpoint, a significant gap exists between what is designed and what is perceived when using gamified offerings for businesses and society. The submissions would also help understand how games and game-based solutions can help society solve the grand challenges and societal reforms.

Track Chairs:
Abhishek Behl, Keele Business School
Connie Barber, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Marc Schmalz, Boise State University