AI & Drupal: 13 Sessions to Closely Watch at DrupalCon Barcelona 2024

DrupalCon Barcelona 2024 is just around the corner, bringing together Drupal enthusiasts, developers, and experts from across the globe from September 24 to 27 at the Barcelona International Convention Center (CCIB). This year’s event promises to be an exciting convergence of ideas and innovations, with AI taking center stage in a range of sessions. As AI technologies continue to transform the way we build and interact with digital experiences, DrupalCon Barcelona 2024 will feature 13 AI-focused sessions, offering attendees the chance to dive into the latest advancements and explore how AI can revolutionize the future of web development.

AI with Drupal - Using LLM technology is easy, but how do you actually build useful applications?

"AI with Drupal - Using LLM Technology is Easy, but How Do You Actually Build Useful Applications?" by Christoph Breidert is on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, from 17:30 to 18:15 CEST. This session will explore the potential and challenges of integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) like OpenAI's ChatGPT with Drupal. Christoph will provide a high-level overview of LLMs, focusing on customizing them for real-world applications. Attendees will see a live AI demo that recommends DrupalCon sessions and learn how to optimize costs, overcome LLM limitations, and ideate useful AI applications. Suitable for both technical and non-technical participants.

Coding Beyond Functionality: Altering Technologies Through Artistic Research

"Coding Beyond Functionality: Altering Technologies Through Artistic Research" by Mónica Rikić will occur on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:15 CEST. This keynote reclaims the role of artistic experimentation in tech innovation. Mónica will share her experience developing an artistic replica of an assistive robot, demonstrating how creative practices can shape technology. She'll also explore alternative learning spaces like hacking camps, where technology is developed for fun, and highlight global self-managed spaces where anyone, regardless of expertise, can engage with technology in unique, unstructured ways.

Drupal AI: Once Again Leading the Way with the New Golden Era of the Web - The AI Module and Starshot

"Drupal AI: Once Again Leading the Way with the New Golden Era of the Web - The AI Module and Starshot" by Marcus Johansson and James Abrahams is scheduled for Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 12:30 to 13:15 CEST. This session explores how Drupal continues to pioneer AI integration, building on the OpenAI module introduced in 2023 with the new AI module and Starshot project. Marcus and James will demonstrate how these tools are transforming site building, content creation, and user experiences, offering practical insights into Drupal’s AI-powered innovations. Designed for beginners and intermediate users, this session will showcase live demonstrations and use cases to inspire developers.

Fast Tracks to Compensation: Revolutionising Rail Claims with Drupal and AI - A Case Study

"Fast Tracks to Compensation: Revolutionising Rail Claims with Drupal and AI - A Case Study" by James Abrahams will take place on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 08:45 to 09:30 CEST. James will explore how FreelyGive transformed the UK's rail Delay Repay claims system, cutting processing times from 30 minutes to 5 using Drupal and AI. This case study demonstrates the use of AI-driven automation in claims management, with a focus on improving efficiency and convincing clients of AI’s reliability. Attendees will learn how Drupal can be applied to automate business processes across industries using open-source modules.

Implementing AI Solutions for the French Government

"Implementing AI Solutions for the French Government" by David Suissa happens on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 09:30 to 10:15 CEST. This session will explore how AI systems are being integrated into public service websites as part of the French government's digital strategy. David will discuss the technical implementation of AI on Drupal-powered government sites, showcasing its benefits, including faster response times and improved message quality. He’ll also address challenges like data protection and approval processes. Attendees will gain insights into future AI integrations and learn how to contribute to open-source AI modules for government platforms.

Search API Meets Typesense

"Search API Meets Typesense" by Luca Lusso will take place on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 09:30 to 10:15 CEST. This session is designed for those building decoupled websites or seeking advanced search capabilities. Luca will introduce Typesense, a powerful, open-source search engine, and demonstrate how it integrates with Drupal via the Search API module. Attendees will learn how to configure Typesense to enable features like search-as-you-type, faceted navigation, and AI-enhanced semantic search. This session will guide participants through setting up a local stack and indexing Drupal content, providing practical insights for building cutting-edge search experiences.

Drupal at the Heart of a Pharma's Education Revolution

"Drupal at the Heart of a Pharma's Education Revolution" by Raúl Bordallo is scheduled on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 14:15 to 14:35 CEST. This session showcases how a global pharmaceutical company transformed its decentralized training system into a unified learning platform powered by Drupal, integrating AI, xAPI, and data analytics. Raúl will explore the challenges of fragmented e-learning tools and how Drupal provided a centralized solution, offering personalized learning experiences and data-driven insights. Attendees will learn strategies for building integrated, scalable learning ecosystems using Drupal and innovative technologies. Ideal for digital strategists and tech leads.

Integration of AI in Drupal

"Integration of AI in Drupal" by Ashish Verma will occur on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 14:15 to 15:00 CEST. This session will explore how AI can be harnessed within Drupal websites to enhance functionality and user experiences. 

Drupal AI Module and Starshot

"Drupal AI Module and Starshot" by James Abrahams will happen on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 15:15 to 16:00 CEST. This session offers an in-depth look at the AI module’s abstraction layer and the development of the innovative Starshot functionality within Drupal. James will guide attendees through the module's features and sub-modules, demonstrating how it can be used in real-world applications. The session also encourages an open discussion, inviting feedback and ideas on the future direction of Drupal and AI, and how attendees can contribute to its development.

AI Meets Accessibility: Enhancing Drupal with Smart Image Descriptions

"AI Meets Accessibility: Enhancing Drupal with Smart Image Descriptions" (Sponsored by Hounder) by Austin Amento is said to take place on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, from 16:15 to 16:30 CEST. Austin will introduce a new Drupal module that leverages OpenAI’s image recognition technology to automatically generate alt text for images, enhancing accessibility and SEO. This session will demonstrate how the module simplifies the process of creating image descriptions, making websites more user-friendly. Attendees will also explore future possibilities for AI-driven accessibility improvements in Drupal.

From CMS to DXP: Bring Your Investment in Drupal to the Next Level

"From CMS to DXP: Bring Your Investment in Drupal to the Next Level" (Sponsored by Dropsolid) by Dominique De Cooman is scheduled for Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 11:30 to 12:15 CEST. This session will explore how Dropsolid evolved into a digital experience company by leveraging Drupal, Mautic, and cloud optimization to build an open DXP. Dominique will explain how to unlock personalization and AI while maintaining sovereignty, and provide insights into Dropsolid’s long-term vision for an open DXP. Attendees will learn how to transition from CMS to DXP development, expanding their expertise and business potential with Drupal.

How to Set Up Cooperation with an AI Vendor?

"How to Set Up Cooperation with an AI Vendor?" (Sponsored by Lemberg Solutions) by Roy Vikovych is slated for Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 14:00 to 14:15 CEST. This session will provide practical insights for agencies and businesses looking to integrate AI services by partnering with AI vendors. Roy will share his experience in delivering AI solutions, offering guidance on preparing for AI projects, navigating outsourcing challenges, and mitigating risks. Attendees will learn the steps to successfully collaborate with AI vendors and explore real-world case studies of AI project development.

The Future of Digital Experience Platforms and AI Integration

"The Future of Digital Experience Platforms and AI Integration" (Sponsored by QED42) by Piyuesh Kumar will happen on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 16:45 to 17:00 CEST. Piyuesh, Director of Technology at QED42, will discuss the evolution of Digital Experience Platforms (DXPs) and their integration with AI. The session will cover how AI enhances DXPs with personalized experiences, automation, and advanced analytics, while also exploring future trends like predictive analytics and intelligent chatbots. Real-world use cases will be shared to demonstrate successful AI integrations in DXPs across industries.