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Appian and PSI CRO Form Strategic Partnership to Advance AI-driven Clinical Trial Operations

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First joint project launches a broader platform strategy for process orchestration across the clinical trial lifecycle

BERLIN, Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Appian (Nasdaq: APPN) and PSI CRO announced today the launch of their first joint AI-powered process orchestration solution. The new offering automates clinical trial site identification and selection across therapeutic areas, indications, and geographies.

The live solution is the first step in a shared vision by PSI and Appian to build a scalable platform that connects automation, AI-powered capabilities, and process orchestration across the full clinical trial lifecycle. Together, the companies are creating a foundation designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and speed across complex clinical trial processes.

AI and process orchestration for complex site selection
Clinical trial site selection is a highly coordinated process involving multiple stakeholders, large volumes of documentation, and parallel activities across countries and regions. The new solution brings previously manual, decentralised steps into a single digital process, from project initiation through the subsequent stages of site selection.

Recognised by Gartner as a Leader in the 2026 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Business Orchestration and Automation Technologies (BOAT), we believe the Appian Platform provides the foundation for this solution. It identifies and selects the most suitable study sites for sponsors, providing greater end-to-end visibility and enabling faster execution across the site selection process.

The solution goes beyond task automation to orchestrate the end-to-end process, connecting people, data, systems, and AI in a single workflow. It coordinates activities across teams and geographies and automates information and document processing. It also manages routing and exceptions, providing real-time insight into process performance.

The solution integrates with PSI’s core systems and data warehouse, as well as Appian’s AI and process intelligence capabilities. The integrated solution creates a scalable foundation for faster decisions, greater consistency, and continuous improvement.

Starting point for a long-term platform strategy
The site selection solution puts PSI’s platform vision into practice. It combines PSI’s focus on predictable clinical trial delivery with Appian’s process automation and AI capabilities.

“The AI-powered clinical trial site selection solution is an important step in how we are rethinking and connecting our operational processes,” says Kirill Soldatov, Head of Process Improvement at PSI. “PSI is known for our ability to deliver complex clinical trials on time. Building a more connected operational model through automation, AI-powered capabilities, and process orchestration within our existing workflows creates a scalable foundation for more predictable, accurate, and timely site selection worldwide, with the goal to further reduce or eliminate non-enrolling sites and patient enrollment delays.”

“This initial project demonstrates the value AI can create when it is embedded in business processes. The solution helps PSI process information faster with automation and manage processes with greater transparency with orchestration. Through our strategic partnership with PSI, we aim to create a flexible, long-term foundation for further automation and innovation,” adds Alexander Motie, Regional Vice President DACH & Eastern Europe at Appian.

With the first solution now live, PSI and Appian will build on this foundation by evaluating further use cases to extend AI-powered process orchestration across the clinical trial lifecycle. The goal is to shorten clinical studies and increase predictability, thus introducing new products to market and driving down costs for consumers.

Find out how life sciences companies can use AI automation for faster speed to market here.

Gartner, Inc. 2026 Magic Quadrant™ for Business Orchestration and Automation Technologies (BOAT). Saikat Ray, Art Villa, Tushar Srivastava, Sachin Joshi, Adam Briggs, Mike Warren. 15 September 2026.

Gartner, Inc. 2026 Critical Capabilities for Business Orchestration and Automation Technologies (BOAT). Saikat Ray, Art Villa, Tushar Srivastava, Sachin Joshi, Adam Briggs, Mike Warren. 15 September 2026.

Gartner® and Magic Quadrant are trademarks of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates.

Gartner does not endorse any company, vendor, product or service depicted in its publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s business and technology insights organisation and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this publication, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding future product capabilities, strategic plans, and industry growth, are forward-looking. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Appian undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

About PSI CRO
PSI is a global full-service contract research organisation (CRO), committed to being the best CRO in the world as measured by its customers, investigators, and vendors, and employees. PSI’s key operational differentiator is on-time delivery of clinical trials. This metric is still above 90% in 2026.

The company specialises in pivotal clinical trials in oncology, gastroenterology, hematology, immunology, infectious diseases, neurology, among other indications. PSI provides expertise in complex trials at the forefront of precision medicine, including platform and umbrella designs, trials in targeted immunotherapy, radiopharmaceuticals, and cell and gene therapies.

In 2025, PSI celebrated its 30th year of business as the only fully independent and privately owned mid-sized CRO. PSI employs over 3,500 people across 58 countries as of September, 2026.

Global headquarters are in Switzerland at 113a Baarerstrasse, Zug 6300.
For more information, visit www.psi-cro.com.

About Appian
Appian provides AI automation for the most important business processes at the world’s largest organisations.

On the Appian Platform, customers build AI-powered processes that accelerate work, reduce cost, and manage risk. Our platform is known for its unique power, reliability, and scale. We’ve been automating processes for more than 25 years and have proven expertise in enterprise operations. For more information, visit appian.com. [Nasdaq: APPN]

Follow Appian DACH: LinkedIn, Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, and X.

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In HelloNation, Jewelry Expert Mike Littlejohn Explains What to Expect From Jewelry Repair and Ring Resizing

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The article outlines how repair services and resizing work and what factors affect timing, cost, and results.

AUBURN, Ind., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Can damaged or ill-fitting jewelry be restored instead of replaced? That question is answered in a HelloNation article, featuring insights from Jewelry Expert Mike Littlejohn of Carbaugh Jewelers.

The HelloNation article explains that jewelry repair and ring resizing are practical ways to restore both the function and appearance of worn pieces. It notes that everyday issues such as broken chains, worn prongs, and loose clasps are common and can often be fixed successfully when addressed early.

According to the article, jewelry repair services cover a wide range of problems caused by regular wear. Fixing these issues promptly can help prevent more serious damage and extend the life of the piece. The article emphasizes that early attention often leads to better outcomes.

Ring resizing is another key service discussed. The ring resizing process involves adjusting the band so that the ring fits securely and comfortably again. Changes in finger size over time or due to temperature can make resizing necessary. The article explains that the goal is to maintain the original look while improving wearability.

Not all rings can be resized in the same way. The article describes how simple bands are easier to adjust, while more detailed designs may require careful handling. Rings with stones set along the band can limit how much resizing is possible. The article notes that understanding these factors helps set clear expectations before starting any work.

Metal type also plays an important role in both jewelry repair and resizing. The article explains that gold is commonly used and responds well to standard techniques. Platinum is denser and more durable, which can make it harder to adjust but also longer lasting. These differences can affect the time and complexity of the repair.

Stone settings require special attention during any jewelry repair services. The article notes that loose stones can often be secured, and missing stones may be replaced if a close match is available. Careful handling helps maintain both the safety and appearance of the piece.

Timing varies depending on the type of repair. The article explains that simple fixes may be completed quickly, while more detailed work takes additional time. The ring resizing process may also take longer if a significant size change is needed. Understanding the timeline helps manage expectations.

Cost is another factor addressed in the article. Jewelry repair cost depends on the level of work required, the condition of the item, and the materials involved. Basic repairs are usually more affordable, while complex work can increase the overall cost. Clear estimates help avoid surprises.

Preventive care is also important. The article encourages regular checks for loose parts or signs of wear so that issues can be handled early. This reduces the need for more extensive repairs and helps maintain the condition of the jewelry over time.

In some cases, repair may not be the best option. The article explains that severe damage or delicate designs can limit what can be safely restored. Alternative solutions, such as redesigning the piece, may be considered when repair is not practical. The article highlights the importance of understanding these limits.

In the end, the article emphasizes that jewelry repair and ring resizing remain valuable options for maintaining meaningful items. By understanding jewelry repair services, the ring resizing process, jewelry repair cost, and how metal type affects the work, individuals can make informed decisions and extend the life of their jewelry.

Can Jewelry Be Repaired or Resized, and What Should You Expect? Features insights from Mike Littlejohn, Jewelry Expert of Auburn, Indiana, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused digital publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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INSEAD establishes Thrive Lab with US$3 million funding from Google.org and Google DeepMind

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Launched at INSEAD AI Forum Asia, the new Lab is set to advance global academic research on the impact of AI on human connectivity, meaning and wellbeing in work and life

FONTAINEBLEAU, France and SINGAPORE and SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — INSEAD, The Business School for the World, today announced it has received US$3 million in funding from Google.org and Google DeepMind. The funding will support the Research Lab for Human and Organisational Thriving (INSEAD Thrive Lab), aimed at accelerating global research on how people and organisations can flourish in an era of continuous technological transformation.

Artificial intelligence is emerging as the most consequential technology that profoundly shapes how people learn, work, live and interact with one another. While it presents near limitless possibilities, we need to give careful attention to the potential risks. How can we strengthen our human, social and psychological capital amid relentless technological change? And how must our ecosystems of learning – spanning educational, community, and professional spheres – evolve to build this capital? These are the central questions that the INSEAD Thrive Lab will focus on.

“We want to understand how people can expand their capabilities, build economically viable and psychologically meaningful working lives, and cultivate strong relationships with others in the age of artificial intelligence. Through rigorous, multidisciplinary research, INSEAD Thrive Lab aims to have real-world impact and generate actionable insights into what enables people and organisations not just to adapt to a rapidly changing world, but to thrive in it,” said Winnie Jiang, Academic Director of INSEAD Thrive Lab and Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour at INSEAD.

Housed under INSEAD’s Human and Machine Intelligence Institute (HUMII) – a cross-disciplinary research institute that counts the 2025 Nobel Laureate in Economics Philippe Aghion and 2025 Oskar Morgenstern Medallist Phanish Puranam as part of its core academic team – INSEAD Thrive Lab will focus on three interconnected domains: Learning, Working and Relating.

“The success of artificial intelligence won’t be measured solely by efficiency or productivity gains, but by whether it empowers people to live more fulfilling lives. Navigating this rapid transformation requires thoughtful research and an unwavering commitment to human well-being. We are proud to support the launch of INSEAD Thrive Lab, which will explore some of the most pressing questions shaping the future of work and help people adapt, stay resilient, and thrive alongside AI,” said Sepi Hejazi Moghadam, Head of Foundations of Science, Google.org.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous fund from Google.org and Google DeepMind. At HUMII, our goal is to conduct research on all branches of artificial intelligence for the ultimate purpose of expanding human capacities and human agency. The Lab’s work will be core to HUMII and to our society,” says Lily Fang, Academic Director of HUMII and Dean of Research and Innovation at INSEAD.

Click here to view video about the INSEAD Thrive Lab

INSEAD Thrive Lab will build on the school’s mission to develop responsible leaders who transform organisations and society, serving as a global hub for research, dialogue and innovation around the human dimension of progress. To this end, it will train emerging scholars working on the theme of human meaning and human flourishing through its PhD research award and postdoctoral fellowship and bring the wider research community together at its annual global conference. Research-to-practice partnerships with organisations, schools and governments, as well as a series of workshops, talks and dialogues are designed to translate insights into practice, and ultimately, help people flourish.

The announcement was made during the INSEAD AI Forum Asia, held at the INSEAD Asia Campus in Singapore. The event serves as a platform for dialogue between researchers, business leaders, policymakers and the public with the goal of advancing the beneficial and responsible use of artificial intelligence to benefit business and society. Part of the global INSEAD AI Forum series, the Asia edition comes after Europe and America, with the next edition taking place in UAE from 27 to 28 January 2027.

To learn more about INSEAD Thrive Lab, participate in the programme, or support the

school’s ongoing mission, visit INSEAD Thrive Lab or follow #INSEADAI.

Media contact: news@insead.edu

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About INSEAD, The Business School for the World 

As one of the world’s leading and largest graduate business schools, INSEAD brings together people, cultures and ideas to develop responsible leaders who transform business and society. Our research, teaching and partnerships reflect this global perspective and cultural diversity. Our global perspective and unparalleled cultural diversity are reflected in our research, teaching, partnerships; as well as in our alumni network of over 73,000 members representing 176 nationalities across 183 countries.

With locations in Europe (France), Asia (Singapore), the Middle East (Abu Dhabi), and North America (San Francisco), INSEAD’s business education and research spans four regions. Our 162 renowned Faculty members from 40 countries inspire more than 1,700 degree participants annually in our Master in Management, MBA, Global Executive MBA, Specialised Master’s degrees (Executive Master in Finance and Executive Master in Change) and PhD programmes. In addition, more than 21,000 executives participate in INSEAD Executive Education programmes each year.

INSEAD continues to conduct cutting-edge research and innovate across all our programmes. We provide business leaders with the knowledge and awareness to operate anywhere. Our core values drive academic excellence and serve the global community as The Business School for the World.

For more information, visit www.insead.edu. 

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nbkc bank Announces Agreement to Assume Consumer BaaS Programs of LSBX, a Division of Lincoln Savings Bank

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Transaction to Boost nbkc’s Banking as a Service Business and Deposit Base

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — nbkc bank today announced that it filed an application with the FDIC to assume the consumer-focused Banking as a Service (BaaS) portfolio maintained by LSBX, Lincoln Savings Bank’s BaaS division, which would increase the scale of its BaaS business and overall deposit base.

The transaction is anticipated to close in early 2027 subject to regulatory approval. Terms were not disclosed. It follows a September announcement that Lincoln Savings Bank parent Lincoln Bancorp, Reinbeck, Iowa, will merge with and into Equity Bancshares, Inc., headquartered in Wichita, Kan.

“This transaction is a natural fit for nbkc and is a great opportunity to continue growing our BaaS business,” said Michael Bartkoski, president and CEO of nbkc bank. “It allows us to further strengthen our deposit base and build upon an established program with significant momentum.” Bartkoski said he expects the LSBX offering to be merged into nbkc’s BaaS business and to go to market under the nbkc brand.

“We believe nbkc is an excellent successor and home for our LSBX customers,” said Sean Willett, CEO of Lincoln Savings Bank. “nbkc has built an exceptional Banking as a Service capability, and they are well known for effectively combining technology and a human touch. We believe in that approach and are confident it will serve our customers very well.”

Through BaaS offerings, banks provide nonbank fintech companies, which do not have banking charters, the opportunity to provide banking products such as deposits, checking, debit cards and personal loans to their customers. Fintech companies’ clients interact with the fintech company’s app on the front end, and their accounts are opened with the partner bank, typically on a private label basis. Fintech companies gain the ability to offer banking products, and banks offering BaaS gain access to those companies’ retail customers.

nbkc bank has developed meaningful scale in its BaaS business, with approximately 13 BaaS relationships with fintech companies, approximately 3.6 million BaaS customers and 30 dedicated BaaS employees.

“Our investment in our BaaS offering enables us to take on a transaction of this scale with confidence in our ability to provide a seamless, excellent customer experience,” Bartkoski said.

About nbkc bank

Having celebrated 25 years in 2024, nbkc bank is a Kansas City-based community bank with a nationwide online presence. Known for pairing intuitive technology with personal support, nbkc delivers digital solutions for mortgage, consumer, and business banking, plus Banking as a Service (BaaS) for companies nationwide. The bank also founded Fountain City Fintech®, an accelerator for growing fintech startups. nbkc remains committed to leading the industry toward simpler, more transparent banking. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Media Contact
Melissa.Beltrame@nbkc.com

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