With our inaugural ASUG Tech Connect launching in New Orleans November 7-9 (register here) in one month, all of us at ASUG are committed to making this educational, in-person experience a premier destination for users seeking direction—and direct answers—as they navigate the SAP technology landscape.
In lieu of the in-person North American developer community event that SAP TechEd normally offers, ASUG worked with SAP to establish a new kind of forum that addresses technology and community needs for developers, practitioners, enterprise architects, and global IT leaders. By providing insight into the latest SAP innovations via engaging new formats for peer connection in live, interactive settings, ASUG believes Tech Connect will become a must-attend event for the North American tech audience.
Approximately 130 sessions will cover a range of topics, including SAP license case studies and emerging innovations around application development, automation, integration, system modernization, and artificial intelligence.
Strategies that are redefining SAP’s role in advancing the digital transformation objectives of organizations across industries, including those related to ERP systems such as SAP S/4HANA Cloud, will be at the center of sessions and workshops, examining the operational implications of technology modernization both for on-premises and cloud customers. And, of course, expect cutting-edge discussions about the impact that artificial intelligence–and generative AI in particular–is having on SAP technology and all industries.
Networking Opportunities
Between the accelerating pace of technological evolution and today’s volatile business environment, there’s never been a more important time to engage face-to-face. And ASUG Tech Connect offers a unique in-person opportunity to connect with peers, SAP experts, and partners. Attendees can learn from each other in interactive sessions and build new business connections while reconnecting with long-time peers.
Networking opportunities at ASUG Tech Connect will provide a foundation for strengthening valuable relationships, enhancing collaboration, contributing to knowledge sharing, and opening the door to career advancement. Like-minded professionals will be able to discuss common challenges, share success stories, and brainstorm together.
Industry Best Practices
Staying competitive in the IT sector requires understanding both industry trends and best practices. ASUG Tech Connect sessions will cover topics from ABAP programming to keeping the core clean and leveraging AI in SAP S/4HANA Cloud. A few sessions I’m especially excited to attend include:
- “Into the Future with Chevron,” in which Chevron team members share their transformation journey from legacy systems to the future with SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP).
- “Power the Future of your Business with Generative AI,” led by Pablo Roisman, Senior AI Product Manager at SAP.
- “How, Why, and When Should We Move to SAP S/4HANA?” Colin Gesnik, SAP Solution Architect for Steelcase, Nick Corcoran, IS Director, Transformation Office, with Rich Products Corporation, Tim K. Nguyen, an ASUG volunteer, George Grix, SAP Architect with Steelcase and Kristen Scheffler, VP, Customer Engagement North America for SAP, will discuss options for the fast-approaching end of mainstream maintenance for SAP ERP Central Component (ECC).
- “Everything You Always Wanted to Know about SAP Cloud ERP Security,” led by SAP’s senior cybersecurity advisor, Tong Zheng.
Skills Development
In the fast-paced world of IT, skills can quickly become obsolete. ASUG Tech Connect offers access to workshops, training sessions, and hands-on labs to help attendees acquire new skills and knowledge.
Our hands-on learning labs are 120 minutes long and provide attendees with the opportunity to develop in-depth and practical understanding of the complexities associated with real-life implementation scenarios. (PLEASE NOTE: While labs are free, they require pre-registration and have limited capacity. I recommend reserving spots early. Registration closes on October 19.)
Influential Keynote Speakers
Juergen Mueller, Chief Technology Officer at SAP and Member of the SAP SE Executive Board, will join Geoff Scott, CEO at ASUG, on stage during the opening keynote to share important SAP announcements and highlight how emerging solutions will help customers drive better business outcomes.
Day two will feature a fireside chat with Carolyn Dolezal, ASUG Chief Operating Officer, alongside ASUG and SAP customers including Bob Bucy, IS Business Analyst, Supply Chain at bioMerieux, on lessons learned during his SAP modernization.
On the final day, Matt Schwartz, Global Head of AWS SAP Alliance and Partner Network at Amazon Web Services, will join Geoff Scott and Max Wessel, Executive Vice President of SAP Learning, to discuss how organizations can develop, capture, and retain the skills and competencies needed to thrive during transformation.
See You in New Orleans!
You don’t want to miss this event! It’s a unique chance to stay at the forefront of technology, expand professional networks, acquire new skills, and gain insight into industry trends and best practices.
This is a new, in-person learning experience led by ASUG and SAP experts. Attendees will have hands-on access to the latest and greatest from SAP and its partner community.
And let’s not forget we’ll be in beautiful and exciting New Orleans, known for its vibrant music scene, rich culture, and world-class cuisine. The city exudes charm and character: the historic French Quarter, jazz-filled streets, and vibrant culture. I can already taste the gumbo, jambalaya, and (of course) delicious beignets.
Position yourself and your organization for success by staying at the forefront of industry trends and insights. Mark your calendars and register today!
Patricia Brown is Editorial Director at ASUG.