DCD>Connect | London (September 17 – 18) is Europe’s leading event that connects the data center ecosystem to plan, build, design & operate next-gen digital infrastructure.
JSA interviewed event organizer David McIntyre, Senior Marketing Executive, to learn key tips on how attendees can make the most of this year’s DCD>Connect | London.
JSA: What makes the DCD Connect London conference a must-attend event?
DM: This year, we’re expecting a record number of 2,500 senior leaders from across the European data center supply chain to attend the event for two days of best-in-class technology discovery, luxury networking and cutting-edge content.
To accommodate our expanding audience, the 2024 event will be held at a brand-new venue: London’s Business Design Centre.
Attendees can look forward to participating in an increased number of debates, workshops, panels, and briefings, alongside numerous opportunities for both formal and informal networking—ensuring your time away from the office is both enjoyable and valuable, far beyond what a typical trade show offers.
This year’s highlights include an expanded Data Center Investment Forum, an Icebreaker Party at the world-renowned Emirates Stadium, a canal-side wake-up run, and a dedicated Under 30s Happy Hour. There’s truly something for everyone!
JSA: How should attendees approach their personal agendas?
DM: DCD isn’t your typical trade show. While you’ll enjoy familiar features such as an action-packed show floor and engaging content sessions, we encourage you to fully embrace the unique DCD Connect experience. Here’s how:
- Review your personal agenda: Our expert team at DCD has taken the guesswork out of planning your time onsite. Before the event, you’ll receive a personal agenda tailored to your interests and procurement needs, featuring invite-only sessions like lunch briefings, workshops, technology exchanges, and private dinners. These sessions are designed to help you connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and discover new technologies and best practices relevant to you.
- Utilize the event app: The event app, launching two weeks prior to the event, will allow you to view all scheduled sessions, set up meetings with over 90 event partners, and message other attendees. It’s an excellent tool for staying informed and connected. Your personal agenda will also be accessible via the app, making it easy to keep track of your schedule.
- Make time for informal networking: DCD Connect places a strong emphasis on informal, enjoyable, and natural networking. The agenda is packed with open sessions that foster connections in a relaxed setting, such as a morning 5k run, the Under 30s Happy Hour, and the Icebreaker Party at Emirates Stadium. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities to have a great time and expand your professional network.
- Consult the DCD Concierge team: Our dedicated Concierge team is available to help you make the most of your time at the event. Feel free to reach out to them for assistance at [email protected].
JSA: How can attendees optimize networking opportunities?
DM: The DCD Connect agenda is filled with small-group networking opportunities. Be sure to participate in the invite-only sessions you’ve been selected for, such as lunch briefings and technology exchanges. These sessions are curated based on your interests and are a fantastic way to meet like-minded professionals in a relaxed environment.
Don’t miss the Icebreaker Party at Emirates Stadium on September 17, either. With live music, open bars, and plenty of photo ops around the stadium, it’s sure to be a memorable evening!
JSA: What are some key locations within the conference venue?
DM: This year’s event will be held at the Business Design Centre, featuring a stunning Show Floor and numerous breakout rooms.
- Day One: Activities such as lunch briefings, debates, and technology exchanges will primarily take place in the breakout rooms.
- Day Two: The focus shifts to the action-packed Show Floor, where three content stages will feature back-to-back sessions, and over 90 event partners will showcase their latest solutions.
A map will be available in the event app, and if you have any questions, the DCD Concierge team will be happy to assist you.
JSA: What are your top 3 tips for making the most of the conference?
DM:
- Attend the sessions in your personal agenda—they’ve been specifically designed for you!
- Explore the full event agenda in the app ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss anything.
- Engage in informal networking opportunities, like the happy hour and 5k run, to enjoy your time out of the office and meet new people!
Click here to learn more about DCD>Connect | London.
Complimentary passes are available with this link and code: JSA.
The JSA Team will be attending this year’s DCD>Connect | London conference and streaming live from the expo hall via our JSA TV Live channel. Don’t miss exclusive interviews and live coverage – join our 193k+ subscribers to watch it on our JSA TV YouTube channel or tune in on JSA’s LinkedIn page.
