Kelly Kolar

President & Founder Kolar Design

Kelly Kolar is president and founder of Kolar + Kolar Experience Institute™, an award-winning design strategy firm that specializes in research + insights, and design. Kolar excels in building brand experiences derived from data that delivers measurable business results using purposeful, creative and deeply collaborative design. Kolar’s best-in-class team works closely with organizations using unique design thinking methodologies to build the strategy and vision that align with business goals and desired brand experiences. Our team is driven by the belief that great design is transformative, that environments can be an agent of change for people, brands, and business. We design to remind people why they do what they do every day, to change culture and, sometimes, even to change lives. As the founder, Kelly has guided the firm in a wide range of strategic innovation projects including US Bank, Fifth Third Bank and Procter & Gamble globally.

Pre-Conference Workshops and Site Tour Day - Wednesday, August 13, 2025

8:30 AM AI-Driven Integrated Data Innovation for a Human-Centric Workplace

What if technology didn’t just streamline work—but helped people thrive? In this energizing and future-forward session, we explore how AI and integrated data can be powerful allies in crafting workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. As organizations navigate a complex landscape of change, this workshop combines the empathy of human-centered design, the precision of AI and data innovation, and the structure of change management to design experiences that resonate with real human needs. We’ll delve into the latest workplace trends, from flexible work to evolving employee expectations, and how to harness these shifts to build more connected, meaningful, and resilient environments. Participants will leave inspired and equipped—with practical strategies for making change stick, aligning digital tools with people’s aspirations, and fostering a culture where well-being, engagement, and performance grow together. Learning Outcomes You will: • Apply human-centered design principles to digital transformation with empathy and intention • Gain insight into key workplace trends shaping the future of work • Explore how to align technology with not just what people do—but what matters to them • Discover ways to build a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability • Learn about tools to measure well-being and meaningful impact across teams • Start building a change management toolkit to support people through transitions with trust, clarity, and purpose

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Kelly.

Download The Latest Agenda