Bursting the Bubble: Why Code Alone Won’t Save the Open Web

In this session, the speaker discusses the challenges faced by the Drupal Association when participating in the Web Summit Lisbon, a large-scale tech event where Drupal was merely one of many booths among numerous startups. The speaker reveals the complexities and realities of stepping outside the familiar confines of the 'Drupal Island' and confronting the broader market dynamics. This experience highlights the stark contrast between niche communities and the vast tech landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability and resilience. The session goes beyond marketing strategies, focusing instead on the fundamental aspects of survival in a competitive environment. Attendees will gain insights into the difficulties of maintaining relevance and visibility in a crowded marketplace, as well as the lessons learned from navigating such a significant event. The speaker aims to provide a candid perspective on the realities of engaging with a diverse audience and the importance of evolving to meet the demands of the open web.