SAP’s SAPPHIRENOW 2020 just wrapped. I really spent some time contemplating the 2020 format and content.
We’re all aware that COVID-19 has changed our world. For SAP, I believe they made the wise decision to still put on their famous SAPPHIRE conference this year, amid the pandemic, but wisely made it virtual. Aside from the health & safety precautions, a virtual event affords, I think it also provided two critical distinguishers over the in-person events of year’s past.
First, by going virtual, SAP was able to reach 5x more people globally. That’s huge! Traditionally SAPPHIRE NOW + ASUG Annual Conference held in Orlando attracts people from all over the globe, but obviously with a cost of entry. That cost is not just the ticket admission into the event but also travel, hotels, time away from the office, etc. This year that cost was reduced to almost nothing! There was zero admission to access sessions, and people were able to consume the content, at their leisure, at home and while still balancing their everyday duties.
The second key distinguisher to SAPPHIRENOW 2020: Vision is the on-demand content. In the past few years, there’s been a bit of on-demand content available for those to view from home, or maybe re-listen again—items like the keynote addresses. But never has the entire portfolio of SAPPHIRE content been presented to everyone, virtually and on-demand. People can now consume the material at their leisure. This is key for most in today’s situation of working from home. Many of us can’t devote an entire day, or multiple days in front of a screen to listen to content. Now we can search, favorite, start/stop, and even share with a colleague little bits and pieces as we best see fit. Allowing everyone to take part still, yet remain focused on our everyday.
Now don’t get me wrong, I still love the in-person SAPPHIRENOW. It’s such a unique opportunity to bring together so many SAP customers, employees, and partners into one space. The mindshare and networking between all these experts over just a few days ignite so much momentum that it’s unbelievable.
That said, given the current circumstances, I think SAPPHIRENOW2020: Vision was a screaming success, and SAP couldn’t have put on a better event. So while I’m hopeful we get back to in-person events, I think there’s great value in the things we saw and what SAP & ASUG learned through the virtual event. I’d like to see something like more on-demand content, virtual Q&As, etc. continue.
-Michael Johnson
With a full breadth of experience through all levels & lifecycles, Michael brings his robust SAP knowledge and perspective as Director of SAP Solutions at American Digital.