The consulting team at HIFIS has done quite some work under the hood in 2025 and can now present some changes that aim to make the service easier to recognise and interact with.
Previously, a consultation request was opened by filling a LimeSurvey linked on our webpage, which would open a ticket in the HIFIS HelpDesk. Now this process is more user friendly and allows to interact with the consulting team right where many scientists write their software: On the Helmholtz Codebase. Simply open an issue in the Helmholtz Software Consulting project there and we can support you right where the actual work is happening! Alternatively, it is now possible to open a request by filling an improved and restructured form directly located on the HIFIS webpage. This will still open an issue on GitLab, but allows you to simply interact with our service via mail.
At the same time, we have further refined our mission and our understanding of what constitutes a modern consulting service. Our goal is to support researchers even more effectively while also sharpening our own profile. As part of this process, we decided to clarify our service’s name: Previously known under multiple names (and often shortened to HIFIS Consulting) we will from now on use the name “Helmholtz Software Consulting” consistently everywhere. We have added the claim “Your Advisors, Guides and Mentors” to reflect our scope and mission more clearly.
Another new element is our Open Office Hour. Every Tuesday from 11:00 to 12:00, researchers are welcome to join us in our virtual office. Whether for spontaneous questions, feedback, early-stage ideas, or simply an informal exchange – we are happy to connect. Simply join our zoom call during that hour - no registration needed.
Open Office Hour
- every Tuesday, 11:00-12:00
- at our Open Office Hour zoom room
We are also pleased to welcome our new colleague Dhia Haddad at HZDR to the team. With his broad programming experience and scientific and industrial expertise, he strengthens our consulting activities.
On February 17, the team met in person in Dresden. In addition to reviewing these latest changes and ongoing activities, we also discussed priorities and perspectives for the year ahead. And while we can’t give the details yet - more exciting updates lie ahead in 2026! With clear focus and renewed energy, we are looking forward to the upcoming year and to working together with you.
