As the APQC annual conference approaches, it’s an exciting time for me, the APQC team, and our members and clients to gather and immerse ourselves in knowledge and process management. The conference promises valuable insights and connections, and I’m here to help you prepare for this enriching experience.

Taking a page out of Elisabeth Swan’s playbook, Picture Yourself at APQC’s Conference! Imagine yourself amidst a vibrant crowd of professionals, all eager to learn, share, and grow. As you envision your presence at the conference, consider the following to help you develop a plan of action.  Remember, preparation is key. By focusing on your objectives and leveraging the conference’s offerings, you’ll be able to make the most of your time at APQC’s 2024 conference.

1. Objectives and Goals: Reflect on your personal and professional objectives for this year. What milestones have you set? Are you on track to achieve them? Confirming these goals will guide your conference experience.
2. Connections: Who would you like to connect with? Seek out experts, peers, and thought leaders. Networking is a powerful tool for learning and collaboration. Whether it’s during sessions, coffee breaks, or social events, remember to make meaningful connections.
3. Best Practices and Insights: What specific best practices or insights do you need? Perhaps you’re interested in process optimization, knowledge sharing, or innovative change strategies. Identify the gaps in your knowledge and prioritize sessions that address these areas.
4. Making Changes and Improvements: Consider the challenges you’re currently facing in your organization. How can the conference content help you overcome these hurdles? Look for practical takeaways that you can apply immediately.
5. Learning and Skill Growth: The conference is an opportunity to expand your skills and gain fresh perspectives. Attend pre-conference training, participate in interactive sessions, and engage with speakers. Embrace the learning journey to expand your personal capabilities.
6. Creating a Plan: Armed with your objectives and insights, create a personalized plan. Highlight sessions, training, and keynotes that align with your goals. Note down the speakers you’d like to hear from and the topics you want to explore.

The APQC conference is thoughtfully organized into three main components: general sessions, breakout tracks, and extracurricular activities. These elements are strategically designed to foster meaningful conversations and connections. The overarching theme, “Connect. Change. Grow.,” permeates every aspect of the conference, serving as a compass for your interactions and experiences.

During the opening session, Jeff Varney and I will provide deep insights into the conference agenda. This is your chance to review your personalized plan and make any last-minute adjustments based on your specific needs. General sessions are dynamic forums for large-group discussions and collective learning—a space where ideas flourish and insights are shared.

• Elisabeth Swan and Carla O’Dell are poised to guide us through improv and practical techniques, valuable tips, and essential tools. Together, we’ll tackle wicked problems and challenges across our disciplines. These sessions are informed by topics voted on by conference participants, with a focus on the top two. Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, you’ll be well-equipped to address other complex issues.
• Keynote, April Rinne’s session promises to be enlightening. In a world of constant change, she’ll teach us how to be “fluxy”—adaptable, resilient, and agile. Concrete principles and proven practices will empower you to navigate opportunities and disruptions with confidence.
• APQC’s Lynda Braksiek and Madison Lundquist bring APQC’s latest research and data on change management. They’ll explore what these insights mean for knowledge management and process management. Prepare to gain actionable takeaways that can transform your approach.
• Keynote, Tucker Bryant, with a poet’s perspective, will unlock fresh and innovative techniques using “The Poet’s Keys.” This session promises to expand your thinking and enhance your skills in unexpected ways.

The breakout sessions serve as micro-knowledge hubs, allowing you to focus on specific topics. These tracks span both knowledge management and process management, creating a rich tapestry of insights. Here’s what you can expect:

• Curated Topics: The 2024 Conference Breakout Track Descriptions have been thoughtfully curated. How? APQC’s conference steering committee and APQC’s research leads and experts collaborate to identify sessions based on feedback from members. The result? A selection of topics that truly matter to our disciplines.
• Practitioner Wisdom: Prepare to learn from seasoned practitioners and business leaders who’ve walked the path. They’ve not only achieved success but also encountered valuable lessons during “in the flow” implementation. Their experiences are like signposts, guiding you through the complexities of managing change across diverse user groups.

Remember, these breakout sessions are your chance to absorb practical knowledge, engage in discussions, and connect with fellow professionals.

As the conference unfolds, some of the most memorable moments await you during the extracurricular activities. These specially crafted experiences are designed with your needs in mind, ensuring that you maximize your time and immerse yourself fully. Here’s what to look forward to:

• Networking Opportunities: Imagine engaging in personal conversations with a diverse group of individuals:
  • Speakers: Connect with the experts who’ve shared their wisdom on stage. Ask questions, seek advice, and gain deeper insights.
  • Fellow Participants: Share experiences with peers who’ve faced similar challenges. Swap stories, learn from each other, and build lasting connections.
  • APQC Researchers: Dive into discussions with the minds behind the research. Discover the latest findings and explore practical applications.
  • Subject Matter Experts: Tap into their knowledge reservoir. Whether it’s over coffee or during a breakout session, these interactions are invaluable.
• Unlocking Membership Insights: Throughout the conference, you can find the APQC team and friends in "APQConnect", located in Willow, 4th Floor. Come in to meet, learn, & lounge! This is your opportunity to understand the power of APQC membership and tools. Discover:
  • Membership Benefits: Learn how APQC’s resources can elevate your work. From benchmarking data to best practices, it’s all at your fingertips.
  • APQC’s Impact: Explore how other members leverage APQC’s offerings. Gain inspiration and ideas for your own initiatives.
  • Navigating Resources: Get practical tips on using APQC’s tools effectively. Maximize your membership investment.
• Member-Facilitated Sessions: Deep Conversations Await: These sessions are where magic happens. Dive into new ideas and methods during thought-provoking discussions. Explore innovative approaches and challenge conventional thinking. Share your pain points and hear how others have overcome similar hurdles. Collective wisdom fuels progress.

I don’t need to remind you that curiosity is our super-power – unleash it and let it guide you. As you put your plans in place, prepare your questions. Be ready to absorb, inquire, and explore. 

We eagerly await your presence. Let’s make this conference an unforgettable moment in our time together!  Connect. Change. Grow.