Tech-Ed set to be largest IT event in 2009
Microsoft’s David Sieff, organiser of Tech-Ed Africa 2009, is hoping to attract some 2000 IT professionals and developers to what’s being billed as the biggest event of its kind.
Microsoft’s premier event for IT professionals and developers, Tech-Ed Africa 2009 runs from 2-5 August at Durban’s International Conference Centre (ICC).
“Tech-Ed this year will be highlighted by the announcements of several new technologies that enable IT professionals and developers to help their organisations save money and improve efficiencies during difficult economic times,” said Sieff.
These technologies include the commercial release of the next version of Microsoft’s new client operating system, Windows 7, and the “release 2” of the company’s Windows Server 2008 platform.
“It’s all about ensuring that IT professionals and developers continue to enhance their platforms and technologies to drive maximum value and business results. Getting the most out of IT investments is even more important today, where the IT function can be viewed as strategic to business,” said Sieff.
Bren Newman, the CTO of gaming software development house Derivco, says more than 30 of his staff will be attending the event, which boasts a high-profile battery of local and international speakers and technology gurus.
“In our field, if you don’t stay abreast of the latest developments in technology, you’re left for dead,” said Newman. “Now, when times are tough, it’s even more important that we keep our skills current and tap into what’s happening on the platforms we work with every day. This is the one event we simply cannot afford to miss.”
Tech-Ed attendees will also get the first opportunity to participate in the invitation-only Microsoft Office 2010 Technical Preview program. For IT professionals, Office 2010 will offer more choice and flexibility in how they buy and manage their IT assets, helping them reduce costs. For developers, it will provide a platform for building Office-related applications with greater ease.
