DataFest
Find out how I evolved a loss-leading data conference into Scotland's premiere festival of innovation.
The purpose of the DataFest was to highlight the innovation sector in Scotland and emphasise The Data Lab's key role in facilitating the success of Scotland's businesses and organisations. The Data Lab is Scotland's innovation centre for data and AI, based at the University of Edinburgh.
Over the course of these three major events, I maintained a 70/30 ratio of female to male participants and there was no 'pay to play' speakers in our lineups - a feat unequalled by any similar event in Scotland.
This edition of the event focused on artificial intelligence - will it support us or replace us? The provocative imagery was chosen deliberately to cut through a crowded marketplace of similar brands and events.
Taking the event from a 70-capacity room to the Edinburgh International Conference Centre posed interesting challenges both logistically and operationally.
Regaining the brand's momentum after the cancellation of the 2020 event, while also dealing with COVID-era restrictions, was a unique and challenging experience.