Configuring a conference review system is a delicate and complex operation as there are many factors to consider in making the submission and review process as smooth and straightforward as possible for all concerned - authors, reviewers, chairs, and sub-chairs. For DRS2016 we have chosen to use ConfTool as it is a powerful way of managing submissions not just during the review process, but also in putting the conference programme together. ConfTool also integrates easily with Eventor, a smartphone App that becomes your 'what's on where?' guide during the conference itself.
Just one of the configuration menus for ConfTool's powerful paper submission and conference management system
Online submission systems have really helped to streamline the submission and review process, making something that only a few years ago needed to be done manually (and before that by post!) into a quick and efficient task. Submitting papers, assigning reviewers, and discussing content can all be done in a few clicks of a mouse. If you get the configuration right that is...
It all means that we're able to concentrate on improving the quality of the review process, communicating better with all users, and getting the final papers online before the conference so we can start the conversations and debates about the latest Design Research as early as we can.