As we transition from the era of “software is eating the world” to “AI is eating software”, the role of requirements engineering is more critical than ever. Unlike traditional software, AI-driven systems do not merely execute predefined logic—they learn, adapt, and make autonomous decisions. This shift raises fundamental challenges: How do we define requirements for systems that evolve over time? How do we ensure that they are not only functionally effective but also trustworthy, explainable, and aligned with social values?

In this keynote, Yiannis will explore how the increasing autonomy of AI systems makes structured requirements engineering indispensable—not only for ensuring business fit but also for embedding quality, fairness, and accountability into AI-driven systems. Drawing on real-world examples from AI auditing and governance, Yiannis will demonstrate how a systematic approach to requirements elicitation can serve as a foundation for both innovation and responsible AI development. By setting clear guardrails from the outset, engineers can navigate the complexity of modern AI systems and create solutions that are not just powerful, but also principled.

Dr. Yiannis Kanellopoulos is a seasoned entrepreneur and AI expert with over 17 years of experience in evaluating large-scale software systems. In 2018, he founded code4thought, one of Greece’s first startups specializing in AI testing, auditing, and IT consulting. A strong advocate for Responsible AI, Yiannis is committed to designing and implementing technology thoughtfully. He is also a Board Member at the Orange Grove Incubator. His work is driven by integrity, transparency, and the belief that technology should create positive impact.