Review of
SPS Connect 2020
2020 is over and with it the first entirely virtual SPS. By 31 December 2020, the SPS Connect platform had played host to a total of 9,121 visitors, seen interactions with 239 exhibitors, facilitated 4,296 business meetings, and delivered a wealth of information about the latest products in the automation industry. In 2021, however, the event is once again set to take place in person from 23 to 25 November in Nuremberg.
Following the cancellation of the physical SPS at the end of August last year, event organizer Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH decided on a digital alternative; a concept that focused primarily on the interaction between the automation suppliers and users, and which would be supported by an AI-based matchmaking function. Courtesy of this tool, a total of 22,216 connections were made as well as 837,486 recommendations.
Accompanying this was a lecture program looking at the latest industry topics in combination with related discussions. As Dr. Josef Waltl, Principal Group Program Manager - Industrial IoT/Manufacturing, Microsoft Deutschland GmbH states: "The expert presentations and SPS Connect portal were the highlights of the SPS Connect. Software and the application of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence within the industry have struck a chord with many participants and exhibitors. It could also make an interesting digital companion for the 'regular' exhibition, which is always a highlight of our calendar."
Source: Mesago Messe Frankfurt