The Directions Difference

DB2 for i Directions combines in-depth training on one of the most critical aspects of IBM i development - the database - with an intimate, relaxed environment featuring extraordinarily knowledgeable and approachable experts. The result is a uniquely productive learning experience that offers:

• Laser focus on DB2 for i
• A stronger foundation for all your apps
• Training on data-centric programming
• Hands-on experience
• Highly concentrated expertise
• One-on-one advice

Laser Focus on DB2 for i

Learn everything you need to know to achieve peak efficiency from your database. You'll hear the latest on how to get your database to do more work for you, how to leverage SQL, how to optimize performance, and how to deliver truly meaningful reports and business intelligence to your internal customers. You'll also learn how and why to use advanced DB2 for i features. You'll go deep into tips and techniques that help you work smarter and faster. Learn more about the sessions

Stronger Foundation for ALL Your Applications

You can modernize an application with a new UI, but true modernization starts with your database. We'll give you sound advice on the best way to architect DB2 for future flexibility (hint: you need to embrace SQL) and teach you to exercise the true potential of your system. When you strengthen DB2 for i, you improve the foundation for all existing business logic and simplify the process of modernizing, expanding or building new applications. The future starts with fully exploiting the power of DB2 on i!

Training on Data-Centric Programming

We'll teach you how to use one of today's top development productivity techniques at DB2 for i Directions - how to move more business logic into your database. That means less coding as you extend your applications, better data integrity, and more consistent enforcement of business rules across your application set. This "data-centric programming" approach frees up everyone's time to concentrate on refining business processes rather than coding business rules into each application.

Hands-On Experience

At DB2 for i Directions, you can supplement classroom curriculum with optional hands-on workshops. Before the conference begins, work through lab exercises that refresh and expand your knowledge on the basics of SQL. After the conference, gain hands-on experience with IBM i's built-in SQL Performance Tooling to reinforce your new-learned skills. Learn more about the workshops

Highly Concentrated Expertise

It's rare to have this amount of DB2 for i expertise in one place, dedicated to teaching a small group of database professionals the latest tips and best practices. Our guest instructors travel the world, talking with active IBM i shops about their use of DB2 on i, gathering a broad toolkit of real-world solutions. They also encourage classroom participation. You'll be surprised how much you can learn by talking with a diverse group of people, all keen on improving the use of DB2 for i. Learn more about the speakers

One-On-One Advice

Unlike larger conferences, you will find it easy to chat with the instructors and get expert advice on how to handle your specific situation. Whether between classes or during breaks, we thrive on meeting people who share our enthusiasm for DB2 for i and on brainstorming ways to solve sticky challenges. Sharing ideas keeps our jobs fun and the IBM i community vital.

Come join us to experience the DB2 for i Directions Difference for yourself!