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EmailThe Benelux Symposium 2020 has come to an end. On February 11 and 12, sector professionals and InterSystems experts gathered in the Radisson Hotel in Antwerp to talk about digital innovation in healthcare and other industries. We look back on an eventful two-day crash course on interoperability, AI, machine learning and API management. Moreover, with more than 200 visitors, it was the biggest InterSystems Benelux event of all time. What were the highlights of both days and what did we learn from the many interesting sessions? In this article, we will share a recap
“We’re moving towards a data-driven world, but that world is not about data” – Helene Lengler, Managing Director InterSystems DACH & Benelux
In her welcome speech, Helene Lengler introduced this year’s theme: “The fastest way to possible”. She urged the participants to transform data into valuable information. “We’re moving towards a data-driven world”, she stated, “But that world is not about data; it’s about the ability to predict results.” She then gave the word to the keynote speaker of the day, Prof. Dr. Sascha Friesike from Berlin University of the Arts, who talked about “Mastering Digital Amateurism.” He discussed the ongoing debate about technology and daily life, asking himself the question: “What types of technology do I want to integrate in my life, and will they make it better?”
Just like last year, InterSystems Director of Product Management Jeff Fried talked us through the newest IRIS updates and their added value for customers. He announced that InterSystems NLP (iKnow) will go open source and talked about Globals; the storage that is the secret to the speed of IRIS.
In the afternoon, participants split into separate groups, to either dive into healthcare or technology subjects. On the healthcare side of the room, for example, Angélique van der Veer from RZCC shared the route to digital information exchange between care providers and and patients. On the technology side, Vlisco Group CIO, Marcel Artz talked about Industry 4.0 and the role of data science and artificial intelligence solutions.
After a demo show, drinks and dinner, everyone went upstairs for a good night’s rest. On day 2, it was time for the technical part of the Symposium. During the hands-on sessions, participants used their own laptops to learn about AI/ML with Aleksandar Kovačević, containers and cloud deployments with Marcel den Ouden and SQL performance with Benjamin de Boe. In the afternoon, Alain Houf hosted the Caché User Group (CUG), where Caché users could exchange best practices and discuss challenges they were encountering.
We would like to thank all participants and speakers for their valuable contribution and enthusiasm. The twitter rush (which was won by Dmitry Maslennikov) even made our hashtag #bnlsymposium2020 trending in Belgium! We are ready to take on 2020 and hope to see you next year.
Your InterSystems Benelux Team