Up2Date 2024: most discussed trends and highlights!

Article
Ann Debaere

Over 3,200 registrations and 76 sessions.

Organised by Agoria and Sirris, Up2Date 2024 had yet another edition of interesting trends and highlights. The event was a great success, solidifying its status as the must-attend event for technology companies. With over than 3,200 registrations – a record number – and 76 online sessions packed with knowledge and interaction, there was enormous interest. Read here all about the most popular topics for businesses and download all presentations in case you missed the event.

Up2Date (formerly known as Acumen) created a unique dynamic among technology companies this year once again. Participants from the manufacturing and ICT sectors could tailor their programme to align perfectly with their specific interests.

This edition also served as a valuable barometer for the topics that are currently occupying businesses. An overview of the themes that attracted the most participants and their implications for businesses is provided below.

Download the presentations from Up2Date 

Did you miss a session from Up2Date? No worries! All presentations can be downloaded from the event website. You can also contact the experts who led each session. In addition to their contact details, you will find handy links to Agoria's related services. Ideal for those who missed it and a nice refresher for the participants.

Download the Up2Date 2024 presentations

AI: The central theme 

It should come as  no surprise that Artificial Intelligence (AI) was one of the main themes of the event. Here is an overview of some notable sessions:

  • AI Act: This session covered the requirements and implications of AI legislation. Ideal for those who want to navigate the ever-changing  regulatory landscape. Want to know more? Contact Agoria experts Jelle Hoedemaekers or Bert Spreuwers.
  • AI in Manufacturing: This session showcased how AI is transforming production, with practical applications and feedback on the tangible benefits of AI integration. Want to know more? Contact Sirris Bart Verlinden.
  • GenAI: Why does generative AI continue to attract so much interest? This session highlighted its transformative potential across sectors, underpinned by case studies that show how companies can optimise their processes. Want to know more? Contact Sirris expert Niels Holvoet.

Increased liability for subcontractors: What does this mean for your company? 

On 1 January  2025, the new law on non-contractual liability will come into force. A key change is the elimination of the "quasi-immunity of auxiliaries."

The news did not go unnoticed, as a large part of the Up2Date audience tuned into the webinar we held on this topic in the context of trade law: "Increased liability of subcontractors, employees and directors: what are the implications for your business and how can you deal with the issue? Agoria experts are ready to answer your questions! Want to know more? Contact Charlotte Dermaut or Alexandra Votquenne.

Strategic talent management 

Attracting, developing, and retaining talent, combined with creating workplace well-being, remains a daily challenge for companies. Agoria provides practical strategies and tools to support HR managers on this front. These specific sessions caught your attention:

Total Reward approach: This session discussed a broad approach to 'reward' that goes beyond financial compensation and is aligned with both company goals and the personal needs of employees. The proposed ‘Navigator’ provided companies with an accessible step-by-step plan to develop their own reward strategy. For more information on Total Reward, contact Inge Sap or Anne De Greef.

Training Plan: The session underscored how the training plan can be used to put training obligations into practice. It also broached how employees can acquire future-proof skills through formal and informal learning. For more information on the training plan contact Veerle Vermeulen.

Workplace well-being and Retention: Companies showed great interest in our session on workplace well-being, where practical tools were presented for assessing and improving the mental well-being of employees. The  retention compass moreover provides insights for companies to identify their strengths and focus on factors that can make a difference in keeping employees longer, more motivated and engaged. For more information on  well-being at work, contact Wouter Vandessel. Want to know more about retention? Contact Robrecht Janssens.

Production planning: Practical insights 

Lastly, there was also much interest in a specific session on production planning, organised by Sirris. Planning issues can quickly lead to unreliable deliveries, long and unpredictable lead times, and major chaos in the factory.

The webinar therefore focused on practical, easy-to-implement solutions. Want to know more? Contact Pascal Pollet.

You are not alone. Contact our experts for personalised support. 

Are these topics also high on your agenda? Don't hesitate to contact our experts. A full list of our experts can be found on our ‘who's who’ page.

 

Save the date: Up2Date 2025

Mark your calendar: from 6 to 17 October 2025, we will welcome you again for an inspiring edition full of up-to-date insights and learning opportunities.

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