BI + Analytics Conference #BIAConf - Why Go?

[TammyPowlas]

The BI + Analytics Conference will be in Nashville in less than two months (August 7-9).  This year Eventful Conferences is producing the event.  It will be the 10th year ASUG has held this event; it began back in 2008 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas.  Be sure to check out the conference brochure.

The conference producers give you 5 great reasons to attend but I offer some of my own below.

Education

This conference is known for its hands-on sessions, and this year is no exception.  There are hands-on sessions for BI platform, Predictive Analytics, Lumira Designer/Discovery, and more.  Last year the sessions were completely full, with waiting lists.  In speaking with Kyle Tate, Conference Producer, last month, he indicated the Lumira sessions were filling up.

You can see all the speakers here.  Some are from SAP but many are customers telling and sharing their stories.  You can also check out the agenda here.

There are several keynotes:



Source: Eventful Conferences

Given that the Nashville Predators are playing in the Stanley Cup, wouldn't it be interesting to hear from the NHL?  This will also be the first time Mike Flannagan, SAP SVP, will keynote at the conference.  I'm sure you'll be mesmerized by Jessica Buchanan's story of being rescued by Navy Seals.

I am also excited that the top-rated ASUG BI Annual Conference presentation session is being presented:



Source: Eventful Conferences

 

Networking

You can network with your peers, SAP, partners, and learn from them.  You can share lessons learned, exchange information, and perhaps share your knowledge.  There are plenty of opportunities to network, starting on the first day of the conference with a networking reception.

Meeting Vendors and Sponsors

Many of us fear visiting the show floor, not wanting sales pitches.  However, vendors, partners, and sponsors have insight into the business as they work at several customers.  Be sure to visit the exhibit hall and sponsors.

Have Fun

Nashville is a great city, great food, friendly people, and great music.  Consider attending the Grand Ole Opry either August 5 or 8 for live performances.  I am not a country music fan myself, but I've been twice and had the time of my life.  You never know who will show up:



Yes, I've seen Taylor Swift perform live, in person!  But that wasn't the highlight for me, it was Riders in the Sky:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnnPVdAeI3Y

Can I get a "Wahoo"?

Charlie Daniels can give you some more tips here.

 

Venue

Venue Location: Nashville Music City Center

I've had the opportunity to visit Nashville Music City Center, and it's an impressive site.

Fear of getting lost?  The center has a "wayfinding" mobile application:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXUD8FoxLf8

 

 

Register

Have you added this to your calendar yet?  The early bird discount ends June 23.



Source: Music City Center

Need more information?

If you are still undecided, ASUG and Eventful Conferences invites you to attend three upcoming webcasts:

BI + Analytics Webcast Series - register for all at once here

July 5: Disruption Ahead: The Big Trends in Business Intelligence and Analytics

July 13:Meet Customer Speakers for BI+Analytics Conference

July 19: BI+Analytics Conference Overview

 

Look back

Last year's pictures:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HNGjsGnFds

2013 Keynote Highlights

2014 Keynote Highlights - David Wascom's quote "“We have justified our lifetime membership at ASUG mainly through cost avoidance”

See you there?