In an era where innovation progresses at a rapid pace, technology events are far more than mere showcases of new developments. They serve as meeting points where future trajectories are shaped, ideas are exchanged, and strategic collaborations are forged. Cisco Engage, held in Zurich this November, with the participation of several members of the 4IT team, is a prime example: not just an event, but a microcosm where knowledge, inspiration, and opportunities converge.
From the stage to business strategy: the role of IT events in digital transformation
Participation in IT events is no longer a passive act. For many companies, it is an immersive experience that redefines strategic priorities and drives organizational transformation. Through training sessions and roundtable discussions with industry experts, companies gain not only insights into emerging technologies but also frameworks for integrating these innovations into their processes. The value lies not only in the technology presented but also in the lessons learned on how to leverage it effectively. For instance, during Cisco Engage, best practices were shared for implementing solutions to drive transformation and continuous innovation within organizations, such as:
- Networking (SD-WAN, Catalyst, Meraki)
- Cybersecurity and Zero Trust
- AI and digital transformation
- Collaboration with Webex
- IoT and industrial connectivity
These go beyond showcasing a product; they provide a framework that companies can adapt to their specific needs. These practices not only enable businesses to address current challenges but also prepare them to seize future opportunities in a rapidly evolving market. It’s a form of training that doesn’t end with the conclusion of the event but continues in the everyday operations of the companies.
Collaborating to innovate: IT events as a forge of strategic connections
There is another crucial aspect that emerges from these events: their ability to foster connections. In an increasingly interconnected world, no company can innovate in isolation. IT events, in addition to being learning platforms, act as catalysts for collaboration. Cisco Engage, for instance, went beyond showcasing technologies to create a fertile ground for networking among industry leaders. These moments of interaction often plant the seeds for groundbreaking projects. Conversations that begin over a coffee break can evolve into partnerships that redefine entire markets. As Robert Noyce, co-founder of Intel and member of Cisco’s Board of Directors, once said:
“Innovation is everything. When you’re at the forefront, you can see what the next necessary innovation will be.” – R. Noyce
This perspective highlights how innovation is a collective process that thrives through the exchange of ideas among minds living and operating at the heart of change. Evolution, after all, is never a solitary act; it is the result of the cross-pollination of ideas, fueled by the interaction of individuals who, being at the forefront, possess the vision and awareness of what is possible. Events like Cisco Engage are a concrete demonstration of this, providing a fertile environment where connections drive change and progress.
Cultivating a culture of innovation
IT events like Cisco Engage go beyond providing practical tools or fostering connections; they embody the essence of what tech events can truly be: not spaces for passive consumption, but hubs of co-creation. These events play a fundamental role in spreading a culture of innovation within companies. Attending these gatherings is not just about acquiring new technical skills but also about embracing a mindset that encourages continuous change, experimentation, and the adoption of new ideas. Through interactive workshops and real-world case studies, companies not only learn how to apply emerging technologies but also find inspiration to rethink their business models and integrate innovation into their very DNA. Cisco Engage, with its focus on the hottest topics in the industry, offers companies an opportunity to engage not only with leading organizations but also with new visions of what it means to be competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
