Author: Marta Re Ferrè

Education and Policy: The XXXIII AEDE Meeting, held at the Politecnico di Milano, brought together over 100 experts from around the world.

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

On 26 and 27 June 2025, the Politecnico di Milano will host the 33rd AEDE Meeting, an international event exploring the relationship between research, educational practice, and policy decisions. Over 110 experts from 77 universities discussed global challenges and solutions for making education systems more equitable and effective.

 

The POLIMI School of Management at the Politecnico di Milano hosted the annual meeting of the Asociación de Economía de la Educación (AEDE) on 26 and 27 June 2025. The event was originally scheduled to take place at the University of Zaragoza in Spain. The event brought together over 110 researchers and experts from 77 universities worldwide.

Now in its 33rd year, the conference has, since 1992, provided a forum for international reflection and discussion on the role of education in the economic and social life of individual countries from a variety of perspectives.

At the heart of the debate, as Prof. Tommaso Agasisti from POLIMI School of Management of Politecnico di Milano, highlighted at the opening, is a crucial issue for the worlds of research and education policy: how to build solid bridges between scientific evidence, teaching practice, and policy decisions.

In a context where the work of data analysis, the construction of rigorous models, and the development of robust results by researchers risk remaining confined to academia, the AEDE Meeting is a valuable platform for dialogue between research and policy decisions.

The event combines academic interest with the concrete commitment of the organisers and participants to communicate the key findings of the debate to civil society and decision-makers. The ultimate goal is to deepen knowledge of education systems and inform education policy in all its aspects, with the aim of improving education systems globally.

To achieve this ambitious goal, it was essential not only to share numerous experiences, but also to foster an understanding of how institutions function in various countries, how they address the daily challenges of educational policy and how they interact with the research community.

During the plenaries, leading experts in the field of economics of education and educational assessment, including Roberto Ricci from INVALSI, Carmen Tovar from INEE – Spain and Miguel Urquiola from Columbia University, offered wide-ranging reflections on global trends in education, such as digital transformation, curriculum reforms and systemic inequalities.

Several issues were then addressed in depth during the parallel sessions:

  • Educational inequalities: analysing how gender, socio-economic status and context influence access to education and educational outcomes
  • The determinants of school performance: exploring environmental, social and organisational factors affecting learning
  • Evaluation of educational policies: using international data and quantitative tools to measure the effectiveness of interventions
  • The relationship between higher education and the labour market: highlighting how universities influence employability and professional development
  • Well-being and non-cognitive skills: recognised as central to students’ educational success and personal growth

The XXXIII AEDE Meeting confirmed the importance of an international dialogue based on data and empirical research to guide the development of education systems. It also highlighted that school policies must consider not only performance, but also inclusivity, equity, and student well-being, in order to create a fairer and more effective education system.

The POLIMI School of Management team won the Best Paper Award in the Immersive Technologies category at the AIRSI Conference 2025

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

Michele Di Dalmazi, Marco Mandolfo, Francesco Di Paolo and Lucio Lamberti won the award for their paper on immersive technologies at the AIRSI Conference 2025.

 

The winners of the Best Paper Awards in the different thematic areas were announced during the AIRSI 2025 – The Metaverse Conference, organised by the University of Zaragoza.

AIRSI is an international scientific conference dedicated to the study of immersive technologies, artificial intelligence, and human–computer interaction. The conference aims to promote discussion between academics, professionals, and companies on the changes taking place in digital worlds.

The 2025 edition brought together academics, practitioners, and corporate representatives for interdisciplinary discussions on the impact of emerging technologies on marketing, consumer behaviour, and immersive communication.

During the event, awards were presented for outstanding academic contributions in the field of research. One of these was the Best Paper Award for Full Paper, PhD – Immersive Technologies, which was won by Michele Di Dalmazi, Marco Mandolfo, Francesco Di Paolo and Lucio Lamberti from the POLIMI School of Management of the Politecnico di Milano.

The paper entitled “Exploring Individual Attention in Virtual Environments: A Multi-Method Investigation Involving Eye-Tracking and EEG”, received the Best Paper Award in the Full Paper, PhD – Immersive Technologies category. This study combines neurophysiological (EEG) and behavioural (eye-tracking) data to significantly contribute to our understanding of the cognitive processes underlying immersive experiences.

This award recognises the scientific and practical value of the research, confirming its contribution to the development of innovative interpretative models for analysing immersive digital experiences.

 

For more details on the article: Exploring Individual Attention in Virtual Environments: A multi-method investigation involving eye-tracking and EEG – ScienceDirect

 

QS World University Rankings: Politecnico di Milano ranks 98th

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

It is the first Italian university to enter the global Top 100

 

For the first time, an Italian university enters the Top 100 of the QS World University Rankings, one of the world’s most prestigious academic ranking: Politecnico di Milano ranks 98th in the 2026 edition, achieving a historic result that marks a national record and at the same time an important recognition of the value of Italian excellence in education and research.

With this achievement, the Politecnico ranks in the top 6 percent of world universities. The shift from 111th to 98th position testifies to the solidity of a steady growth over time: in ten years, the University has climbed as many as 89 positions, 41 of which in the last three years (from 139th in 2023), distinguishing itself as a point of reference for the Italian university system and among international academic excellence.

In Italy, the Politecnico di Milano is confirmed first in overall performance and in the quality of its key indicators.

Among the indicators that contributed most to the achievement of the Top 100 were Employer Reputation and Academic Reputation. The first – which measures the esteem in which graduates are held by international employers – highlights Politecnico’s ability to train highly qualified professionals who are ready to face the challenges of the world of work. The second – which assesses the prestige perceived by the global academic community – confirms the high quality of research and teaching carried out at the University.

Excellent results were also achieved in the Employment Outcomes criteria, which attests to a high employment rate among graduates and a significant impact of their careers in their respective fields. The figure for Citations per Faculty, which measures the average number of scientific citations per faculty member and reflects the relevance of scientific production at the international level, also rose sharply.

These positive results are also supported by a significant increase in scientific productivity, a tangible sign of an active, attractive and innovation-oriented academic community.

 

This is a particularly significant achievement. Italy finally enters the top 100 of the QS World Rankings like the other G7 countries. This is a demonstration of the relevance and prestige not only of Politecnico di Milano, but of the Italian education and research system. A leap forward that started ten years ago. It is an expression of a clear growth strategy; of the passion and dedication of the entire Politecnico di Milano community; of careful planning and management of resources; and of an effective system of interaction with businesses and the territory.

Donatella Sciuto, Rector of Politecnico di Milano

The QS World University Rankings 2026 analyzed more than 8,400 universities in 106 countries. Of these, 1,501 made the rankings, including 43 Italian ones. Politecnico di Milano’s result represents a turning point for Italian universities and a strong signal of its ability to compete, innovate and grow globally.

 

Key Figures

Overall ranking: 98th out of more than 8,400 universities evaluated. This is the first time an Italian university has entered the QS Top 100 ranking.Position in Italy: 1st place overall.Universities analyzed: 8,467 universities from 106 countries. Of these, 1,501 entered the ranking. There are 43 Italian universities present.Indicators of excellence:

  • Employer Reputation: 90.1/100
  • Academic Reputation: 83.4/100
  • Employment Outcomes: 72.0/100
  • Citations per Faculty: 53.9/100
  • International Faculty: 74.4/100

Ten-year trend: +89 positions gained in ten years. The Politecnico rose from 187th place in 2016 to 98th in 2026.Scientific Productivity: over 27,000 publications and 270,000 citations in 2019-2024 (source: Scopus/QS).

 

See the rankings: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings

POLIMI School of Management’s New Impact Report: data that tells the story of change

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

The POLIMI School of Management presents the new Impact Report developed as part of the BSIS evaluation. An in-depth analysis of the School’s impact on society, the region and companies. Concrete data and measurable results to reinforce a daily commitment to the future.

 

Following the recent launch of the Impact Committee, the POLIMI School of Management of the Politecnico di Milano is pleased to announce the publication of the summary document “POLIMI School of Management Impact Report – BSIS Assessment”.

With the aim of informing stakeholders of the progress made and celebrating the results achieved over the past year, following the completion of the BSIS (Business School Impact System) assessment process, the School presents some key elements of activities that promote a positive impact on society.

The BSIS assessment is a tool promoted by the EFMD (European Foundation for Management Development) – one of the three main accreditation bodies in the world – which analyses the impact of business schools on their geographical areas and on society as a whole. Through this process, the School has had its commitment to making a positive contribution to society certified and measured through academic, research and collaborative activities with local businesses and institutions.

This short document summarises the results of the evaluation by highlighting the School’s contribution to the ecosystem in which it operates, demonstrating the value of the work that takes place within the institution on a daily basis, and specifically examining its impact according to seven spheres of influence.

Below is an overview of the key findings of the report, with data up to 2022:

Financial Impact:

  • Total Financial Impact: €105 million in direct and indirect costs.
  • Revenue Growth: 92% increase from 2015 to 2022.
  • Main Income Sources: Research funds (36%), postgraduate tuition fees (26%), Executive Education (16%).
  • Digitalisation Investment: Improved efficiency and staff skills.

Educational Impact:

  • Alumni: 13,700 working locally, also contributing to industrial development.
  • Graduates: 1,923 in the past year, 595 entering the regional job market.
  • International Students: 80% in the International MBA, 32% staying in the region.
  • Company Partnerships: 203 companies involved in part-time programmes.

Business Development Impact:

  • Internships and Projects: Equivalent to over 700 full-time jobs, €10.5 million impact.
  • Entrepreneurship: Supported by PoliHub, 219 new jobs, 17 start-ups in 2022.
  • Notable Ventures: Fybra, improving air quality and energy efficiency.

Intellectual Impact:

  • Research Output: 370+ articles, 90+ books, 81+ research projects.
  • Events: 1,300 participants at conferences, 10,700 at 120 dissemination events.
  • Research Impact Assessment: Framework for assessing research impact.

Regional Ecosystem Impact:

  • Collaborations: With local academic institutions, public authorities and businesses.
  • Local Professionals: 443 professionals sharing expertise.
  • Community Integration: Significant contributions to the regional ecosystem.

Societal Impact:

  • Sustainability Initiatives: 59% of MSc and other masters students receive sustainability instruction.
  • Public Events: 85 events open to public, 5,500 participants.
  • Environmental Projects: “Zero Sprechi” and “Ambassador in Green Technologies.”

Image Impact:

  • Reputation: Triple crown accreditation, strong national and international reputation.
  • Dissemination Events: 400 events, 50,000 attendees, 11,500 press citations.
  • Social Media: Strong presence on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

 

More details: POLIMI School of Management Impact Report BSIS Assessment.

The “hybrid” condition of organizations as a key tool for sustainable business development

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

Companies are no longer focused exclusively on profits: a study by the Politecnico di Milano and the University of Bologna analyses hybrid organisations, companies that integrate sustainability and economic logics. Focus on B Corporations, with two key approaches: internal social mission or market strategy. A model for the future of sustainable business.

 

In today’s economic landscape of growing environmental and social crises, companies can no longer limit themselves to maximising profits. There is a growing awareness that business success should be measured not only in financial terms, but also in terms of the social and environmental impact generated. This is the context for hybrid organisations, or those companies that integrate both social and economic logic into the way they do business.

But what does it really mean to be a hybrid organisation? The study carried out by Leonardo Boni, Assistant Professor at the POLIMI School of Management of the Politecnico di Milano and afferent of the TIRESIA research centre, together with Riccardo Fini and Laura Toschi of the University of Bologna, analyses the nature and measures the various facets of the hybrid condition within a sample of Italian companies that have B Corp certification, a standard obtained by for-profit companies that have a high level of social and environmental performance.

The study proposes a scale for measuring hybridisation that has three main levels:

  • The emergence of the hybrid condition – Why does a company decide to pursue social objectives alongside economic ones? Motivations can be strategic (improving reputation, attracting new customers sensitive to sustainability) or deeper, linked to the ethical vision of the company and the influence of external stakeholders.
  • Integrating the social dimension – It is not enough to declare a commitment to sustainability, it must be translated into concrete actions. Hybrid companies must be able to develop specific skills to better manage the dual economic and social objectives, adopt internal processes to align governance and business strategy, and create incentive mechanisms for employees.
  • Developing an impact thesis – Hybrid companies should not only mitigate the negative impacts of their activities, but also aim to create a lasting positive impact. This approach requires the development of a clear impact thesis: what social and environmental goals do you want to achieve? How will they be measured?

From the analysis of 101 Italian B Corporations, the study identified and validated a measurement scale with four factors: (i) strategic interpretation of social impact; (ii) individual and entrepreneurial dynamism; (iii) diffusion of organisational capabilities; and (iv) influence of external actors.

From this scale, the study identified two macro-types of hybrid companies:

  • Internally identity-oriented B Corporations – companies that are born with a strong social mission and integrate it into every aspect of their strategy. For them, profit is a means to amplify positive impact.
  • Market-driven B Corp – companies that adopt the B Corp model to differentiate themselves, attract investment and respond to external pressures (customers, suppliers, institutions).

This study contributes to the understanding of how and to what extent a company embraces a hybrid state, supporting the path of innovation and adaptation of practices and processes fundamental to the generation of positive social impact. From this paper, it is suggested that the divide between for-profit and non-profit is overcome, but that the two souls can coexist in organisational models that can be measured and implemented.

A new look for SOMe, the POLIMI School of Management’s e-magazine

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

A new layout and lots of valuable content for the new issue of SOMe, the e-magazine of the POLIMI School of Management.

The latest edition offers an in-depth look at the research, innovation and strategic initiatives that characterise our School.

 

Between research, purpose and digital transition

In this issue, we explore the School’s latest scientific publications, with a focus on disclosure in R&D, workplace safety in manufacturing SMEs and the strategic value of data in the insurtech sector.

We feature the findings of the Purpose in Action Observatory, innovative projects on hydrogen and maritime sustainability, and initiatives to support young NEETs.

We close with an in-depth look at the digital transition, thanks to the insights from our HumanTech Day event and the latest news on Milan’s food policy, in which we are actively involved.

 

To read previous issues of SOMe, click here.

To receive it directly in your inbox, subscribe here.

Platform Thinking as a Driver of Innovation for Established Companies: evidence from Italy

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè
Platform thinking is a strategic lever for innovation in established companies, allowing them to create value ecosystems and exploit network effects. A recent study analysed the adoption of this approach by Italian companies in the FTSE MIB.

 

Platform Thinking is emerging as a crucial strategy for established companies aiming to innovate and remain competitive in an increasingly digitalized market. Inspired by the business models of leading platforms such as Uber, Airbnb, and Amazon, this approach enables companies to orchestrate value ecosystems, scale through network effects, and leverage underutilized assets.

A study conducted by the Platform Thinking HUB at the POLIMI School of Management of Politecnico di Milano, led by Professors Daniel Trabucchi and Tommaso Buganza, analyzed the adoption of Platform Thinking among major Italian companies listed in the FTSE MIB index, the index in the Italian Stock Exchnage that list the 40 companies with highest market capitalization. The findings reveal that 88% of companies have initiated platform-related projects, yet only 22% have truly adopted a multi-sided model capable of generating value through network effects and co-creation with users.

The research highlights three key benefits of Platform Thinking for traditional businesses:

  1. Improving efficiency in existing transactions– As seen in Klöckner’s case, which transformed steel sales with a digital platform open even to competitors.
  2. Enabling new transactions– Like AXA’s model, which leverages data and external collaboration to enhance corporate risk management.
  3. Strategic use of data– Demonstrated by John Deere, which developed a platform for agricultural data analysis, creating value for farmers and new business opportunities.

However, the study also identifies three common mistakes that companies should avoid when adopting Platform Thinking: treating customers merely as suppliers, managing the platform with a linear approach without leveraging network effects, and investing in technology without a clear value creation strategy.

The analysis conducted by POLIMI School of Management confirms that Platform Thinking is not just a trend but a genuine strategic opportunity for established businesses seeking innovation. To succeed, companies must adopt a conscious approach, leveraging platform potential not only to enhance efficiency but also to redefine their role in the economic ecosystem.

These findings were recently published in the March edition of Harvard Business Review Italia, highlighting the importance of Platform Thinking for the future of business innovation.

From the Pandemic to geopolitical tensions: how risks in the pharmaceutical supply chain are evolving

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

Health crises, geopolitical instability and raw material shortages are redefining the priorities of the pharmaceutical sector. A study by the POLIMI School of Management analyses how recent global turmoil has changed the perception and management of risk in the pharmaceutical supply chain, highlighting the urgency of integrated strategies, new technologies and increased collaboration between supply chain stakeholders.

 

In recent years, the pharmaceutical sector has faced unprecedented challenges. Brexit, COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, and raw material shortages have put immense pressure on the pharmaceutical supply chain, highlighting the need for effective risk management to ensure the continuity in the production and distribution of medicines.

A recent study conducted by Claudia Ciceri, Camilla Borsani, Michela Guida, Marco Farinelli, and Federico Caniato from the School of Management of Politecnico di Milano delves deep into these issues. Published in the International Journal of Operations & Production Management, the research, titled “Impact Pathways: Navigating Risks in the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain – A Multi-Actor Perspective”, provides an overview of the risks affecting the pharmaceutical supply chain and how they are perceived by different supply chain actors.

According to the study, recent geopolitical events have reshaped perceptions of the most critical risks. While logistics delays and cost fluctuations were previously considered the most severe threats, new priorities have emerged in response to the rapidly changing global landscape. Among the most relevant risks today are the scarcity of raw materials, insufficient manufacturing capacity and compliance to regulations. Additionally, different stakeholders within the supply chain perceive risks differently and often adopt fragmented risk management strategies, increasing the sector’s vulnerability. The study therefore outlines new research directions to address real and unmet needs in pharmaceutical supply chain risk management.

First, the study highlights the importance of developing risk assessment models that integrate probability estimations and economic and social impact evaluations, enabling companies to allocate resources more effectively for risk mitigation.

The role of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things is also deemed crucial. These technologies could enhance traceability and supply chain monitoring, increasing transparency and responsiveness to disruptions.

Furthermore, the analysis underscores the need to incorporate macroeconomic and geopolitical factors, such as international conflicts and trade policies, into risk management strategies to anticipate potential supply chain disruptions.

Finally, the study encourages regulatory bodies to include all relevant stakeholders in their initiatives, as their on-the-ground experience could provide valuable insights for a more integrated and effective risk management approach. A systemic approach is essential to building a more resilient pharmaceutical supply chain capable of tackling future challenges.

This research paves the way for new perspectives in risk management, stimulating discussion among academics, industry professionals, and regulators to better address the challenges of tomorrow.

Read the full article here: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOPM-06-2024-0458

How to make e-Grocery Home Delivery sustainable and flexible with on-demand vehicles

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè

The growth of online grocery retailing has amplified the challenges of last-mile delivery. A study published in Computers & Industrial Engineering proposes an optimisation model that balances cost, sustainability and operational flexibility.

 

The rapid growth of the e-grocery sector, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a surge in demand for efficient home delivery services.

However, the last-mile delivery of groceries presents unique logistical and environmental challenges, requiring companies to balance speed, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Last-mile delivery is the most complex phase of the e-grocery supply chain due to several factors: Customers demand faster and reliable deliveries, with increasing operational pressures. The perishable nature of grocery products often forces companies to schedule deliveries by agreeing on narrow time windows with customers, ensuring both freshness and food safety while reducing the likelihood of missed deliveries.

This requirement can limit the scope for optimizing delivery routes, as vehicles must adhere to strict schedules, often necessitating the allocation of additional resources. The increase in delivery vehicles raises emissions and urban congestion. Moreover, maintaining an in-house fleet is expensive, making flexible solutions like 3PL partnerships attractive. These factors collectively create a complex operational environment where maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction—through timely and reliable delivery—must be balanced against the pressures of cost efficiency and the imperative to reduce environmental impact.

A recent study, “Sustainable E-Grocery Home Delivery: An Optimization Model Considering On-Demand Vehicles,” published in Computers & Industrial Engineering, explores how e-grocery retailers can leverage third-party logistics (3PL) providers and on-demand vehicle fleets to optimize delivery operations.

The research, conducted by Sara Perotti and Vittoria Tudisco of the POLIMI School of Management of the Politecnico di Milano, together with Banu Yetkin Ekren and Emel Aktas of the Cranfield School of Management, UK, presents an advanced optimization model integrating fleet composition, routing strategies, and sustainability objectives. It evaluates three different optimization approaches:

  1. Cost-Efficient Strategy: Focused on minimizing total delivery costs to reduce fixed expenses.
  2. Environmental-Effective Strategy: Prioritizing sustainability with biodiesel vans.
  3. Comprehensive Strategy: Balancing cost and environmental impact.

The study applies this model to a real-world Italian retailer. Results demonstrate that by leveraging biodiesel vans and optimizing fleet composition and routing jointly, companies can substantially cut emissions without drastically increasing operational costs.

The comprehensive approach shows that prioritizing green delivery methods does not necessarily lead to prohibitive costs. Moreover, by relying on 3PL providers and composing fleet with on-demand vehicles, retailers can avoid the capital expenditure of fleet ownership while maintaining service flexibility.

This research significantly contributes to academic literature and provides actionable insights for e-grocery retailers seeking to optimize their last-mile delivery operations.

 

For more detail: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0360835225000191?via%3Dihub

Funding and Profitability: Two Sides of FinTech Startup Growth

Posted on | by Marta Re Ferrè
Grow at any cost or pursue sustainability? FinTech start-ups face a crucial choice: raise funds to scale quickly or focus on profitability. A new study analyses how funding affects break-even, offering valuable insights for investors and founders.

 

FinTech startups are a driving force of innovation and competition in the financial sector. However, reaching break-even – the point at which revenue covers costs – is a crucial challenge for their sustainability and growth.

The study “Predicting break-even in FinTech startups as a signal for success”, conducted by Claudio Garitta and Laura Grassi from the POLIMI School of Management and published in Finance Research Letters, examines the impact of funding on break-even, providing valuable insights for investors, partners and founders.

Funding and Sustainability

Securing new capital is often a necessity for startups, not only to obtain financial resources but also to access expertise and strategic networks. However, the research highlights that FinTech startups receiving venture capital investments (funds specializing in startups) are less likely to reach break-even compared to those that grow without external support. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors:

  • Focus on growth vs. profitability → External capital brings expectations of rapid growth and a longer time horizon, often at the expense of short-term financial sustainability.
  • Less rigorous financial management → The pressure to scale quickly may delay the adoption of structured financial management practices.
  • Impact of fundraising negotiations → Seeking investors requires complex and often prolonged negotiations, slowing down operational activities. In the early stages, founders must simultaneously manage product development, sales, and fundraising with limited resources.

Break-even: A Market and Partnership Signal

In the startup ecosystem, and particularly in financial services, break-even is not just an internal milestone but also a key signal for investors and potential industrial partners. Achieving it indicates a sustainable business model, reducing perceived risk and increasing opportunities for collaboration with financial intermediaries and established companies.

Conclusions and Implications

These findings do not suggest that external funding is an obstacle but rather emphasize the need for a balance between growth and sustainability. For investors and partners, understanding the relationship between funding and break-even is essential to evaluate not only a startup’s growth potential but also its ability to generate value in the present.

 

More details: Predicting break-even in FinTech startups as a signal for success