The Heinz Nixdorf Institute (HNI) at the University of Paderborn is an interdisciplinary research center that combines computer science, engineering and economics. Founded in 1989, it promotes innovations in areas such as artificial intelligence, automation, communication systems and the digital economy.

The aim of the HNI is to create technological advances for society through practice-oriented research and close cooperation with industry. The focus is particularly on topics such as Industry 4.0, smart factories and digitalization.

Named after the computer pioneer Heinz Nixdorf, the institute stands for excellent research and the development of future-oriented technologies. The BEE (Behavioral Economic Engineering and Responsible Management) specialist group brings its expertise from behavioral economics to the project in order to ensure comprehensive acceptance by stakeholders and the most efficient possible interaction between human operators and the technical innovations.