Big Data LDN at 10 Anniversary: Data Governance and AI Madness

Big Data LDN (BDL), the ultimate data event of the year, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. This year’s event is scheduled to take place on September 24 and 25, with a brand-new deep-dive conference held on September 23.

In this episode of the Don't Panic, It's Just Data podcast, host Shubhangi Dua, Podcast Producer and B2B Tech Journalist at EM360Tech, speaks with Michael Ferguson, CEO of Intelligent Business Strategies and BDL Conference Chair, and Palesa Amadi, BDL Conference Manager.

The speakers provide a sneak peek of the upcoming Big Data LDN conference. They discuss how AI affects data and analytics, and spotlight the importance of data governance. Additionally, they talk about the different theatres and sessions available at the conference. The conversation also shines a light on keynotes and notable speakers, the changes in data engineering and architecture, and the learning opportunities for attendees.

AI Agents, Data Products in the Limelight

Get ready for "AI madness", says the Conference Chair. This year's event will feature AI in many forms, from AI agents walking the aisles to its integration into almost every software product on the exhibition floor.

"It's going to be hectic," Ferguson expresses. He expects a strong push toward AI-driven data governance and data management. Such changes aim to simplify complex tasks and make tools easier for more users to access. Instead of just seeing copilots, attendees will experience multi-agent capabilities and even "AI apps."

With 16 theatres and numerous speakers, the conference focuses on learning. Conference Manager describes how the content is tailored for everyone—from engineers and analysts to students.

"You're going to come to this to learn and to add to your knowledge, and of course, network," says Amadi. The show has changed its focus to include new theatres like Data Products and Streaming Analytics, along with Decision Automation. Some theatres have been renamed to highlight the growing influence of AI, such as the Data and AI Strategy Theatre.

A new "Data for Good" theatre will feature sessions on sustainability and using data for unconventional purposes, like tackling global food needs.

Unmissable Keynotes and Speakers

The speaker lineup is a big draw, featuring well-known experts and thought leaders. Amadi is particularly excited about keynote speaker Zhamak Dehghani, who will discuss the "apparent redundancy" of the term data mesh. Dehghani, who wrote the viral white paper on this topic, will advocate for her views, as Amadi puts it. Another highlight will be a session on the key role of big data and AI in the gaming industry, led by Carly Taylor.

The event's closing keynote will be delivered by the world-renowned physicist Professor Brian . He will talk about quantum computing and the universe as a quantum computer.

Beyond the Main Event

For those looking for more, Big Data LDN is hosting a new paid pre-show conference on September 23rd called Data-Driven LDN. This event is mainly designed for attendees in a high-level enterprise role, like CDOs and CTOs, and will be led by Mike Ferguson. It’s a chance to explore topics such as agentic AI, data governance, and data products in depth.

Whether you’re an industry expert or a curious newcomer, the 10th anniversary of Big Data London promises to be an engaging and transformative experience, demonstrating how quickly data and AI are changing our world.

For further information, tune into the podcast.