Conference Overview
Embrace Quality Decisions at the 32nd SDP Annual Conference
Join the Society of Decision Professionals March 23–27, 2026, as we shape the future of decision-making. At SDP, we empower individuals and organizations to make confident, informed, and high-impact choices.
This event is open to both members and non-members—welcoming professionals from all backgrounds who are passionate about making quality decisions. Members receive special pricing, so we encourage you to become a member today and take advantage of the best registration rates.
Special Promotion for New Members
Attending the conference? Use code SDP2026 to receive $100 off your first year of membership (new memberships only) and enjoy the conference member discount immediately!
Join Today
Take advantage of this limited-time offer and become part of a global community dedicated to advancing the practice of decision-making. Connect, learn, and shape how great decisions get made.
Location & Dates
March 23–27, 2026
University of Massachusetts – 100 Morrissey Blvd., Boston, MA 02125
Set against the backdrop of Boston Harbor, the University of Massachusetts Boston offers a stunning oceanfront campus that encourages thoughtful dialogue, collaboration, and discovery. Just minutes from downtown Boston, attendees will enjoy access to one of the nation’s most dynamic cities—rich in culture, innovation, and opportunity.
Conference Theme
Decision Leadership in the Age of Intelligent Systems
This year’s theme explores how decision professionals can lead alongside emerging intelligent systems—integrating human judgment, values, and context with AI-powered capabilities to guide better decisions at scale.
What You'll Experience
- Keynotes from global thought leaders
- Hands-on workshops and panel discussions
- Over 30 daily poster presentations
- Networking receptions and peer learning
- Special tracks for students and first-time attendees
Schedule Overview
- Monday, March 23: Pre-conference workshops, welcome reception
- Tuesday–Thursday, March 24–26: Main conference programming
- Friday, March 27: Post-conference workshops
Take a Look at Our Session Overview today!
TBA: Our full conference agenda with talk titles and speakers
What's Included with Registration
- Full access to all conference sessions, and poster presentations
- Daily lunch, coffee, and refreshment breaks
- Digital conference materials and mobile app access
- Optional pre and post-conference workshops (available at an additional cost)
Who Attends?
Leaders and professionals from a wide range of industries—including energy, healthcare, technology, finance, government, and academia—regularly attend SDP events. If you're committed to improving decision-making in your field, this conference is for you.
Typical roles include:
- Analysts and strategists
- Innovation and risk leaders
- Data scientists and operations researchers
- Policy makers and academic researchers
- Students and early-career professionals
Optional Networking Events
Conference Welcome Reception
Monday, March 23, 2026 | 5:30pm - 8:00pm | UMB | $50.00 per person
Kick off the SDP 2026 Annual Conference with an evening of connection and celebration. Mix and mingle with fellow attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and meet new faces in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy light refreshments and beverages as you start your conference experience on the right note.
Spouse & Significant Others Admission to Conference Welcome Reception
Monday, March 23, 2026 | 5:30pm - 8:00pm | UMB | $50.00 per person
Bring your loved one to join in the opening celebration. This ticket allows spouses and partners to accompany conference attendees to the Welcome Reception and be part of the festivities from day one.
Conference Dinner at Venezia
Tuesday, March 24 | 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Bus departs UMass Boston at 6:30 p.m.
$95 per person (includes roundtrip shuttle transportation)
Join fellow attendees for an evening of great food, laughter, and connection at Venezia Restaurant, a beloved Boston favorite set on the scenic waterfront. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, beautiful harbor views, and relaxed conversation as we kick off the conference together—SDP style.
Significant others are warmly welcome to join this special evening.
Menu Highlights include:
- Choice of entrées (fish, chicken, or vegetarian option available)
- Fresh-baked breads, Caesar and chopped salads
- Seasonal vegetable medley and starch
- Dessert, coffee, tea, or water
- Open cash bar
Transportation:
Roundtrip shuttle service is provided from UMass Boston to Venezia, with return service to either the University campus or 700 Atlantic Ave, Boston’s primary transportation hub located in the Financial District/Downtown area at Dewey Square.
With award-winning cuisine, attentive service, and an elegant waterfront setting, Venezia promises a memorable start to your SDP 2026 experience—come for the view, stay for the camaraderie.
Spouse& Significant Others Admission to Conference Dinner at Venezia
Tuesday, March 24 | 7:00-10:00 p.m. | $95 per person (includes roundtrip shuttle)
Join us for an elegant evening of dining and networking at Venezia Restaurant, located on Boston's scenic waterfront. This ticket is exclusively for spouses and partners of conference attendees who wish to accompany their significant other to this special evening.
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, dessert, and beverages alongside fellow guests in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Roundtrip shuttle transportation is provided from UMass Boston to Venezia and back to campus for your convenience.
A perfect way to share in the SDP 2026 Annual Conference experience with your loved one.
Spouses and Significant Others Meet & Greet (FREE)
Tuesday, March 24 - 8:00–9:30 a.m. | UMass Boston (location to be announced)
(Sponsored by Oaken Table Consulting)
We cordially invite spouses and partners of attendees to start the conference week with friendly conversation and connection. Enjoy coffee, light refreshments, and the chance to meet others and plan activities during conference hours.
Stay Informed
Follow SDP on LinkedIn for speaker announcements, program updates, and behind-the-scenes highlights.
Questions? Contact us at sdpevents@decisionprofessionals.com