Mendoza College of BusinessMendoza College of Business

Meet HAL: Human-centered analytics in an increasingly digital world

Top scholars at the Mendoza College of Business join forces to lead research on technologies that change how humans live, work, and interact.

Published: February 20, 2026
Author: Jessica McManus Warnell

Abstract graphic featuring a light bulb, colorful circles, and starbursts against a blue and gold background.

Co-Directors Ahmed Abbasi and Ken Kelley created the Human-centered Analytics Lab (HAL) in 2021, recognizing the need for interdisciplinary attention using the most innovative technologies to solve today's most pressing problems—with a focus on putting people at the center. Ahmed Abbasi focuses on machine learning, artificial intelligence and cognitive science. Ken Kelley focuses on methods to better measure, model, and design studies that concern the person. HAL’s work informs organizations and industries, offering insights into the interaction of people with technology to understand the human condition in our increasingly digital world.

We sat down with HAL Co-Director Dr. Ken Kelley to learn more. Read on for a glimpse into cutting-edge research, and consider how you might connect with HAL to advance your organization with the newest AI and analytics findings.

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