#ESPC25 is just around the corner, taking place this December 1st through the 4th, in Dublin, Ireland! We’re going back to Dublin! If you’re anything like me, you’re already buzzing with anticipation. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned ESPC veteran, one thing’s for sure. This conference one of the best ways to end your year in technology.
A little planning goes a long way.
I’ve been attending ESPC (#ESPC14 – Barcelona anyone?) for years, and I’ve learned that the best way to turn inspiration into action is to start before you even step foot in Dublin. So let’s talk strategy. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success and make the most of your ESPC25 experience.
Know Your Why
Before diving into the agenda, ask yourself: What do I want to walk away with? Curious about how Copilot is transforming productivity? Is security at the top of your mind? Want to learn first hand Microsoft’s vision for 2026? What is SharePoint’s role in the era of AI? Power Platform? Data? Want to connect with fellow innovators or scout out implementation partners?
Define your goals early. This will help you filter sessions, prioritize networking, and stay focused amid the excitement.
Build Your Session Strategy
The ESPC25 schedule is live, and it’s a treasure trove of content. My tip? Don’t just pick sessions based just on titles, look at the speakers, the track level, and how each topic aligns with your goals. I recommend:
- Bookmarking 3–5 must-attend sessions, i.e. 1-2 per day that you do not want to miss
- Choosing a mix of deep dives and visionary keynotes
- Leaving room for spontaneous discoveries (trust me, they happen!)
And don’t forget the pre-conference tutorials, these are gold for hands-on learning. Every single workshop is being presented by some of the most knowledgeable sources, those that I look to for best practices, guidance, and insights.
Prep Your Tech Stack
If you’re planning to test-drive new ideas post-conference, make sure your environment is ready. That might mean:
- Reviewing your current tenant architecture, i.e. Microsoft 365, Azure, Power Platform, etc
- Identifying areas where Content AI could streamline workflows. Are you attending ESPC25 to answer this question? Great!
- Setting up sandbox environments for experimentation
This way, when you hear something game-changing, you’ll be ready to pilot it back at work. Or even pilot it right there, it does happen, I have seen it.
Plan to Connect
Some of the best insights come from hallway conversations and expo chats. ESPC25 is full of opportunities to meet Microsoft product team members, MVPs, and fellow attendees. I suggest:
- Joining the ESPC app or community channels
- Scheduling time to visit the Microsoft Innovation Hub
- Attending the Conference Party (yes, it’s fun, and yes, it’s strategic!)
Capture & Reflect
Bring a notebook, tablet, or whatever helps you jot down ideas. After each day, take 10 minutes to reflect:
- What did I learn?
- What can I apply?
- Who should I follow up with?
This habit turns inspiration into implementation, and helps you avoid the post-conference overwhelm.
There is something I have learned about conferences. First, there appears to be this magical barrier right at the door of each session you will attend. You will sit and listen to material that resonates so strongly, it answers all of your questions. Then you get up to leave, pass this this invisible magical barrier, and poof, everything you just learned just vanished! Second, even if you could repel this barrier, you will be drinking from the firehose throughout the week.
Try to capture at least one take-away from each session, and each afternoon, capture your overall thoughts for the day.
Final Thoughts
ESPC25 is more than a conference. It’s a launchpad. With a little prep, you’ll walk away not just inspired, but equipped to drive real change in your organization. So get your game plan together, pack your curiosity, and I’ll see you in Dublin!
Let’s make this the most impactful ESPC yet!
Also, be sure to join me on Wednesday at 16:45 (4:45pm for fellow state side folks) to learn about SharePoint Premium, I mean Document Processing for Microsoft 365. I have lots to share, I’m looking forward to one of my favorite conferences of the year!
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