The ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems is the premier international conference of Human-Computer Interaction. We are very fortunate to hold CHI 2017 in Denver, in one of the most beautiful regions in the U.S., near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. This location served to motivate our conference theme of Explore, Innovate, Inspire. Mountains have long been a theme connected to exploration, the natural environment has provided models for numerous innovations, and the western landscape has served as a source of inspiration to many, from artists to inventors. The CHI conference brings together people from multiple disciplines and a diversity of cultures to explore new ways to practice, develop and improve methods and systems in HCI, to discuss ideas that can lead to innovations, and to inspire us all.
This year we offer several innovations. CHI Stories is a new venue where researchers will relate stories about unique experiences and ideas that have transformed and inspired them in their lives and careers. We have integrated more art and design activities into the conference such as interactive and performative installations to represent alternative HCI methodologies, to stimulate discussion, and for exploring new perspectives. We have also expanded our focus on inclusion, with some new activities aimed at raising awareness of the diverse needs of our community as well as the return of translation support for selected languages.