Almost a year ago in February 2024, I introduced the Drupal Community to changes being made to the Drupal Certified Partner Program (see: Turning Takers into Makers: The enhanced Drupal Certified Partner Program).
The goal of the enhanced Drupal Certified Partner program was to define the culture of contribution necessary at the agency level to make Drupal thrive at the ecosystem level. We then set out to recognize and reward agencies who incorporate this culture into their operations.
In this blog, I will provide an update on progress made and further changes that will be made to the Drupal Certified Partner Program. These changes are necessary if we are to preserve independence and strong governance and avoid the fate of Wordpress, where the Maker/Taker problem is tearing the project apart.
The Update
We have made great progress in creating a model of sustainable support for Drupal, while maintaining it as one of the world's largest, independent open source projects. In the last year, the number of Drupal Certified Partners has increased to 101, an increase of 26 companies.
In joining the program, agencies are placed in a Tier based on their previous 12-month contributions. It is heartening to see that we have a strong mix of contribution tiers. The breakdown is what you might expect: the upper tiers, demanding greater contribution, have fewer companies (29). New Partners, who are beginning their contribution journey, make up ¾ of Drupal Certified Partners. It was exciting to see several companies join in 2024 and then move up a tier in the same year!
The program has some geographic diversity, but this is an area where we hope to grow. I think the Asian, Australian, and Middle East markets have potential for solid growth.
Most importantly, the impact of the program on contributions has been tremendous. Total contributions to the Drupal Project in 2024 totaled 203,738 and Drupal Certified Partners sponsored 87% of these contributions (158,387 issue credits). The growth in total contributions was due to the Drupal Starshot Initiative, but it is fair (and obvious) to say that without Drupal Certified Partners, Starshot would not have been successful.
But, there were 1,440 organizations active on Drupal.org in 2024 and yet, only 101 Drupal Certified Partners (7%). In fact, 96% of all contributions came from 219 companies (15%). This is not sustainable, if Drupal is to remain innovative and independent.
The Message
Agencies that rely upon selling Drupal to their customers need to be Makers, not Takers. In becoming a Drupal Certified Partner, such agencies are making an important investment in the sustainability of their company. They are:
Investing in the software that they sell to their customers, keeping it innovative into the future, and
Investing in their staff, connecting them to Drupal at a deeper level that improves job satisfaction, expertise, and retention, and
Demonstrating to their customers and potential customers that they are an independently verified, high quality Drupal agency, one that understands open source and can competently deliver; and
Investing in their business model by embracing open source and being an integral part of its success.
To read more about building a business model around open source, I would refer you to an excellent blogpost by Owen Lansbury, Chair of the Drupal Association and founder of Top Tier Drupal Certified Partner PreviousNext: Becoming a Drupal Certified Partner: How commitment to open source drives value and success at PreviousNext. Owen shares his model in the spirit of open source and with the knowledge that a strong Drupal ecosystem benefits all companies.
Over the past 18 months, the Drupal Association has been asking companies to make the decision to be a Maker and we have been heartened to see many making that commitment.
The progress we have made in 2024 is good and we are pushing for even more growth in 2025.
Invigorating Drupal, increasing marketplace awareness of Drupal, and maintaining its independence are not guaranteed outcomes for the Drupal Project. We have witnessed poor outcomes in other open source projects over the last several years.
Open source is only as sustainable as the level of commitment to it from the community. There are proprietary products that view Drupal’s capabilities as an obstacle to market dominance and only the strength of the project and community can stave that off. This is one of the reasons why the launch of Drupal CMS is so important- it innovates the product and rallies the community. It offers opportunities for Drupal Agencies to expand the market and earn business. It can introduce Drupal to more marketers and site builders.
All this is good, but to be sustainable, we need to do more.
The Drupal Association believes that we need:
A larger network of Drupal Certified Partners. The Drupal Association’s Board of Directors set a goal of 106 DCPs by the middle of 2026. We will meet that this quarter.
We realize now that number is not sufficient to keep Drupal independent and thriving. A global project with the breadth and depth of Drupal needs a larger network of Makers of all sizes and business models in all markets.
The number of Drupal Certified Partners needs to be three times as high.
Greater support from large companies, even those for which Drupal is only a part of their business. Many large (and some really huge) global companies have not committed to the contributions necessary to be a Drupal Certified Partner.
One of the changes we made to the Certified Partner program was to make code contributions central and the primary reason for placement in the program tiers. The financial sponsorship amount does not move a company up or down the ranking. But financial sponsorship amount does go to support Drupal.org, the Drupal Servers, the Drupal Project and several initiatives to grow the community. Financial sponsorship is tied to employee size as a rough proxy of agency's revenues.
We are finding that the Drupal teams within some of these large organizations cannot convince upper management to authorize contributions and/or make the financial contribution, even though it is a nominal amount compared to the organization's overall revenue.
How do we get integrators and other large organizations that make millions of dollars in revenue from Drupal to be Makers in open source and not Takers? These organizations use several open source products and thus it is not a problem that Drupal faces alone.
The Drupal Association is continually trying to make the case and I welcome additional ideas from the community as to how to solve this.
Companies to increase contributions commensurate with their size. The primary goal of the Drupal Certified Partner program is to drive contributions to the project that supports innovation and growth to improve Drupal’s relevance in the marketplace.
Knowing that Drupal has a very diverse ecosystem, we established a program that companies of all sizes can participate in. Given that about 42% of DCPs have less than 20 employees, I think we’ve been pretty successful. There are plenty of examples of small and mid-size companies contributing far more than one would expect. For an extreme example, check out Redfin Solutions and their under 10 person team contributing at the Diamond Tier level!
But, this has led to the situation where large companies meet minimum requirements for certification but do not contribute commensurate with the size of their Drupal team. This holds back innovation. So we need to find a way to incentivize companies who can, to move up in the Tier structure and contribute more back to Drupal.
The Drupal Association will begin to implement further improvements to the Drupal Certified Partner program to provide extra recognition and benefits for Partners in the upper Tiers.
Drive Drupal business to Drupal Certified Partners. Dries Buytaert, in his influential Balancing Makers and Takers to scale and sustain Open Source, cites economics 101 and the free rider problem in making the case that we must level the playing field between Makers and Takers by driving business to Makers.
For Drupal to innovate, for it to sustain, for it to remain independent, those companies that give back must be rewarded. This is in the interest of Drupal's end users who invest significant funds into their projects and want to know that Drupal will thrive. Much cheaper than paying license fees in perpetuity is ensuring that the company who is building and maintaining your website is sustaining the software. In 2024, we started an initiative to make end users aware of the importance of working with Drupal Certified Partners through a model RFP.
We need to go further. The Drupal Association will continue to ensure that Drupal is free to anyone, anywhere in the world to download and use as they wish. We will also aggressively drive business to Drupal Certified Partners.
The Hope
There are SO MANY positive things happening in the Drupal Project and the Drupal Community. With strong governance and the promise of Drupal CMS, the future of Drupal is ours to create.
My plan, one year from now, in February 2026, is to provide an update to the community that highlights the success of the community’s Drupal Certified Partners in keeping Drupal innovative, inspiring and independent.
If your company will join us, you can make writing that blogpost much easier.
A First Time Attendees Guide to DrupalCon Atlanta 2025
DrupalCon is an exciting and invaluable event for anyone involved in the Drupal community, whether you’re a developer, website owner, or digital professional. If you’re heading to DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 for the first time, you’re in for a treat! Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your experience, along with some top tips for how to prepare.
Get to Know the Hyatt Regency Atlanta
Welcome to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, the official venue for DrupalCon Atlanta 2025! Located downtown, our hotel offers easy access to the conference and local attractions. With over 180,000 square feet of versatile event space, including a stunning atrium, we’re ready to host your sessions, networking events, and meetups.
Enjoy modern accommodations, a fitness center, and on-site dining, plus nearby landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park. Whether you’re here for DrupalCon or to explore Atlanta, the Hyatt Regency is the perfect place to connect, collaborate, and relax.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Find Your Local Drupal Community Did you know that there are smaller Drupal communities that get together, meet, help each other, and share experiences around the world? Communities are typically broken down by geographic area. There will be a designated area in the ballroom for local Drupal community members to meet up. There will also be ambassadors from each community who will be available to answer any questions you may have.
Plan Your Sessions in Advance DrupalCon offers a packed schedule of keynotes, breakout sessions, workshops, and sprints. As a first-time attendee, it can be overwhelming to choose between the many sessions on offer. Be sure to review the full schedule ahead of time and map out your must-see sessions. Don’t forget about the community networking events — they’re a great opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and share knowledge.
Take Advantage of the Expo Hall The Expo Hall is where you’ll find all the key players in the Drupal ecosystem. Whether you’re interested in learning about the latest modules, tools, or services for your website, or you're looking to network with other professionals, this is the place to be. Make sure to visit the exhibitor booths and grab some swag!
Don’t Miss the After-Hours Events DrupalCon isn’t just about sessions—it’s also about networking and having fun. After a long day of learning, be sure to check out the after-hours events. You’ll get to know your fellow attendees in a more relaxed setting. From Drupal meetups to informal happy hours, there’s always something happening in Atlanta.
Be Prepared to Learn and Grow At DrupalCon, you’ll have access to experts, thought leaders, and professionals from across the globe. Take this opportunity to learn from the best, ask questions, and dive deep into all things Drupal. Whether you’re attending a session, workshop, or sprint, you’ll leave the conference with a wealth of new knowledge.
6 Top Tips for First-Time Attendees: How to Prepare
1. Plan Your Logistics Make sure to book your travel and accommodation well in advance. Atlanta is a popular destination, and staying near the convention center will make your experience more enjoyable. Use the official DrupalCon app to stay up-to-date on session schedules, map out your day, and connect with other attendees.
2. Find the New Member + Local Drupal Community Meeting Space DrupalCon is actually a gathering of lots of local Drupal communities. Find your local Drupal community in the New Member + Local Drupal Community Meeting Space. Use the area to meet new friends and enjoy DrupalCon activities together! Ambassadors from that local community will also be hand to answer questions.
3. Explore the Keynote Sessions One of the highlights of DrupalCon is the keynote sessions, where industry leaders share their insights on the future of Drupal and digital innovation. These sessions are a great way to kick off your DrupalCon experience and get a sense of the community’s direction.
4. Don’t Miss the Birds of a Feather (BoF) Sessions Birds of a Feather (BoF) sessions are informal gatherings where you can discuss specific topics with other attendees who share your interests. Whether it’s a conversation about Drupal 10 or how to build better websites for non-profits, BoFs are a fantastic way to dive deep into niche topics.
5. Take Advantage of the Social Events Networking doesn’t end when the sessions do. Atlanta is known for its vibrant social scene, and DrupalCon will offer a variety of social events and meetups to help you connect with fellow Drupal professionals. Whether you’re at a local restaurant or a special after-hours event, be sure to engage with the community.
6. Focus on Skill Development DrupalCon Atlanta is a great place to learn new skills, whether you’re interested in backend development, front-end design, or site building. Take a mix of technical and strategy sessions, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or dive into new areas of Drupal that you haven’t explored before.
How to Maximize Your Experience at DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 as a First-Time Attendee
Attending DrupalCon for the first time can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. With thousands of attendees, dozens of sessions, and plenty of opportunities to network, it’s essential to plan ahead. Here’s how you can make the most out of DrupalCon Atlanta 2025.
Understanding the DrupalCon Schedule DrupalCon is packed with valuable content, but it can be hard to decide what to attend when there are multiple sessions happening at the same time. As a first-timer, try to balance between sessions that teach practical skills and those that offer a broader vision for Drupal’s future. The schedule will be available in advance, so take time to prioritize based on your interests.
Attend the Mentoring Sessions As a first-time attendee, you might feel overwhelmed by all the information, but don’t worry – there’s support available. DrupalCon offers mentoring sessions where you can get advice and insights from Drupal experts. These sessions are perfect for newcomers who have questions about modules, themes, or website development.
Network with Fellow Attendees DrupalCon is an excellent opportunity to meet others in the community. Use the event to introduce yourself, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships. The easiest way to do that is find your local Drupal community in the New Member + Local Drupal Community Meeting Space. The best times to meetup are:
Monday evening: Right before the welcome reception and walk over together
Tuesday morning: Before the first sessions and keynote to plan for the day
Tuesday afternoon: Right before lunch to sit and eat together
Tuesday + Wednesday evening: Right before each social activity to travel together
Also, don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with speakers and exhibitors—DrupalCon is a community-driven event.
Participate in a Sprint If you're a developer, participating in a sprint is one of the most rewarding experiences at DrupalCon. Sprints allow you to contribute directly to the Drupal project, collaborate with others, and hone your coding skills. Whether you’re new to Drupal or an experienced contributor, sprints are a fantastic way to give back to the community.
Take Care of Yourself Attending a conference can be intense, so don’t forget to take breaks, stay hydrated, and find moments to relax. The sessions can be mentally taxing, so finding some downtime will help you recharge and stay focused throughout the week.
Get to Know the Hyatt Regency Atlanta
Welcome to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, the official venue for DrupalCon Atlanta 2025! Located downtown, our hotel offers easy access to the conference and local attractions. With over 180,000 square feet of versatile event space, including a stunning atrium, we’re ready to host your sessions, networking events, and meetups.
Enjoy modern accommodations, a fitness center, and on-site dining, plus nearby landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park. Whether you’re here for DrupalCon or to explore Atlanta, the Hyatt Regency is the perfect place to connect, collaborate, and relax.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Find Your Local Drupal Community Did you know that there are smaller Drupal communities that get together, meet, help each other, and share experiences around the world? Communities are typically broken down by geographic area. There will be a designated area in the ballroom for local Drupal community members to meet up. There will also be ambassadors from each community who will be available to answer any questions you may have.
Plan Your Sessions in Advance DrupalCon offers a packed schedule of keynotes, breakout sessions, workshops, and sprints. As a first-time attendee, it can be overwhelming to choose between the many sessions on offer. Be sure to review the full schedule ahead of time and map out your must-see sessions. Don’t forget about the community networking events — they’re a great opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and share knowledge.
Take Advantage of the Expo Hall The Expo Hall is where you’ll find all the key players in the Drupal ecosystem. Whether you’re interested in learning about the latest modules, tools, or services for your website, or you're looking to network with other professionals, this is the place to be. Make sure to visit the exhibitor booths and grab some swag!
Don’t Miss the After-Hours Events DrupalCon isn’t just about sessions—it’s also about networking and having fun. After a long day of learning, be sure to check out the after-hours events. You’ll get to know your fellow attendees in a more relaxed setting. From Drupal meetups to informal happy hours, there’s always something happening in Atlanta.
Be Prepared to Learn and Grow At DrupalCon, you’ll have access to experts, thought leaders, and professionals from across the globe. Take this opportunity to learn from the best, ask questions, and dive deep into all things Drupal. Whether you’re attending a session, workshop, or sprint, you’ll leave the conference with a wealth of new knowledge.
6 Top Tips for First-Time Attendees: How to Prepare
1. Plan Your Logistics Make sure to book your travel and accommodation well in advance. Atlanta is a popular destination, and staying near the convention center will make your experience more enjoyable. Use the official DrupalCon app to stay up-to-date on session schedules, map out your day, and connect with other attendees.
2. Find the New Member + Local Drupal Community Meeting Space DrupalCon is actually a gathering of lots of local Drupal communities. Find your local Drupal community in the New Member + Local Drupal Community Meeting Space. Use the area to meet new friends and enjoy DrupalCon activities together! Ambassadors from that local community will also be hand to answer questions.
3. Explore the Keynote Sessions One of the highlights of DrupalCon is the keynote sessions, where industry leaders share their insights on the future of Drupal and digital innovation. These sessions are a great way to kick off your DrupalCon experience and get a sense of the community’s direction.
4. Don’t Miss the Birds of a Feather (BoF) Sessions Birds of a Feather (BoF) sessions are informal gatherings where you can discuss specific topics with other attendees who share your interests. Whether it’s a conversation about Drupal 10 or how to build better websites for non-profits, BoFs are a fantastic way to dive deep into niche topics.
5. Take Advantage of the Social Events Networking doesn’t end when the sessions do. Atlanta is known for its vibrant social scene, and DrupalCon will offer a variety of social events and meetups to help you connect with fellow Drupal professionals. Whether you’re at a local restaurant or a special after-hours event, be sure to engage with the community.
6. Focus on Skill Development DrupalCon Atlanta is a great place to learn new skills, whether you’re interested in backend development, front-end design, or site building. Take a mix of technical and strategy sessions, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or dive into new areas of Drupal that you haven’t explored before.
How to Maximize Your Experience at DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 as a First-Time Attendee
Attending DrupalCon for the first time can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. With thousands of attendees, dozens of sessions, and plenty of opportunities to network, it’s essential to plan ahead. Here’s how you can make the most out of DrupalCon Atlanta 2025.
Understanding the DrupalCon Schedule DrupalCon is packed with valuable content, but it can be hard to decide what to attend when there are multiple sessions happening at the same time. As a first-timer, try to balance between sessions that teach practical skills and those that offer a broader vision for Drupal’s future. The schedule will be available in advance, so take time to prioritize based on your interests.
Attend the Mentoring Sessions As a first-time attendee, you might feel overwhelmed by all the information, but don’t worry – there’s support available. DrupalCon offers mentoring sessions where you can get advice and insights from Drupal experts. These sessions are perfect for newcomers who have questions about modules, themes, or website development.
Network with Fellow Attendees DrupalCon is an excellent opportunity to meet others in the community. Use the event to introduce yourself, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships. The easiest way to do that is find your local Drupal community in the New Member + Local Drupal Community Meeting Space. The best times to meetup are:
Monday evening: Right before the welcome reception and walk over together
Tuesday morning: Before the first sessions and keynote to plan for the day
Tuesday afternoon: Right before lunch to sit and eat together
Tuesday + Wednesday evening: Right before each social activity to travel together
Also, don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with speakers and exhibitors—DrupalCon is a community-driven event.
Participate in a Sprint If you're a developer, participating in a sprint is one of the most rewarding experiences at DrupalCon. Sprints allow you to contribute directly to the Drupal project, collaborate with others, and hone your coding skills. Whether you’re new to Drupal or an experienced contributor, sprints are a fantastic way to give back to the community.
Take Care of Yourself Attending a conference can be intense, so don’t forget to take breaks, stay hydrated, and find moments to relax. The sessions can be mentally taxing, so finding some downtime will help you recharge and stay focused throughout the week.
Quarterly Open Office Hours with the Drupal CWG Conflict Resolution Team
At the heart of the Drupal community lies our commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and positive environment. As part of this mission, the Drupal Community Working Group (CWG) Conflict Resolution Team is excited to announce quarterly open office hours.
Our open office hours are designed to create a safe and welcoming space where members of the Drupal community can connect with us. Whether you have questions about conflict resolution, need guidance on community challenges, or simply want to better understand how we support our community, this is your opportunity to engage with the team.
What to Expect
During these sessions, you’ll have the chance to:
Ask questions about the CWG and its role in maintaining a healthy community.
Seek advice or share concerns related to conflict resolution or community dynamics.
Learn about tools and resources to help foster positive interactions in your own Drupal spaces.
This is a casual, open forum, so feel free to drop in and participate as much or as little as you’d like.
Details for the Next Session
📅 Date: February 28, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:00 - 6:00 PM GMT
📍 Location: ZOOM - https://drupalassoc.zoom.us/j/81673498809
We’re here to listen, provide support, and help strengthen the bonds that make the Drupal community so unique. Whether you’re a long-time contributor or new to Drupal, we welcome everyone to join us.
Why Open Office Hours?
The open office hours are part of our ongoing effort to ensure that every community member feels heard and supported. By offering this space, we hope to encourage open dialogue and provide resources that contribute to a healthier, more resilient Drupal community.
We look forward to seeing you there and working together to continue building the kind of community we can all be proud to be a part of. 💙
Our open office hours are designed to create a safe and welcoming space where members of the Drupal community can connect with us. Whether you have questions about conflict resolution, need guidance on community challenges, or simply want to better understand how we support our community, this is your opportunity to engage with the team.
What to Expect
During these sessions, you’ll have the chance to:
Ask questions about the CWG and its role in maintaining a healthy community.
Seek advice or share concerns related to conflict resolution or community dynamics.
Learn about tools and resources to help foster positive interactions in your own Drupal spaces.
This is a casual, open forum, so feel free to drop in and participate as much or as little as you’d like.
Details for the Next Session
📅 Date: February 28, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:00 - 6:00 PM GMT
📍 Location: ZOOM - https://drupalassoc.zoom.us/j/81673498809
We’re here to listen, provide support, and help strengthen the bonds that make the Drupal community so unique. Whether you’re a long-time contributor or new to Drupal, we welcome everyone to join us.
Why Open Office Hours?
The open office hours are part of our ongoing effort to ensure that every community member feels heard and supported. By offering this space, we hope to encourage open dialogue and provide resources that contribute to a healthier, more resilient Drupal community.
We look forward to seeing you there and working together to continue building the kind of community we can all be proud to be a part of. 💙
Join us at DrupalCon Atlanta for all things Drupal CMS
Drupal CMS 1.0 was released on January 15. People at 65+ parties celebrated around the globe in Milan (Italy), Zaragoza (Spain), Delhi (India), Lutsk (Ukraine), Bogota (Columbia), Boston (USA), Budapest (Hungary) just to name a few locations. More than 700 people celebrated on the online Zoom party. But what's next?
Join us at DrupalCon Atlanta for two keynotes, more than 20 sessions, contribution opportunities, a dedicated training and even a game show providing deeper insights into Drupal CMS! And this is just a slice of the whole conference!
Two Drupal CMS keynotes and an overview session
The Driesnote on Tuesday provides a premier look at the latest developments and future plans of Drupal CMS, including updates on Experience Builder.
Wednesday afternoon the Drupal CMS Spotlights keynote (page to come) will feature key leaders providing in-depth looks at their respective areas from AI site building through user experience, documentation and of course Experience Builder.
Drupal CMS Product Lead Pamela Barone and UX Lead Cristina Chumillas will present Drupal CMS now and beyond to review the roadmap we went on so far and what is ahead.
Experience Builder sessions
A huge part of Drupal CMS will be Experience Builder (XB). Coming later this year, there is a lot to cover.
In Experience Builder is coming. Are you ready? lead of XB, Lauri Timmanee will show how building Drupal sites will soon become faster and easier than ever before.
Experience Builder will come with a design system of components to use. In Behind the Build: How We're Creating Drupal’s New Default Design System Elliott Mower and Jason Thompson are presenting their early work on this.
Want to integrate your modules or custom features? One of the developers behind XB, Bálint Kléri will show you how in No need to over-React! Navigating Experience Builder as a developer.
Kristen Pol is the lead of the demo design system for XB. In Launch your design system into hyperdrive with Starshot’s Experience Builder, she will share her hands-on experience and provide practical tips.
The UI of Experience Builder itself is under scrutiny in Shaping the Future of Drupal: How Design Thinking + Collaboration is driving Experience Builder with Jillian Chueka and Renee Lund, who are leading designing the XB UI.
Last but not least in The Future of Drupal Theming: AI, Experience Builder, and Beyond Mike Herchel (Drupal Olivero theme's lead) will cover recent developments even beyond Experience Builder.
Drupal CMS AI sessions
AI is the new UI - how we are building AI into Drupal CMS is the place to be to learn from James Abrahams himself on how Drupal CMS built the site building AI features and what comes next.
Marcus Johansson will provide practical tips on no-code feature building with AI in Meet the AI Automators that power everything in Drupal CMS - CKEditor, AI Agents, no code required!
Want to create your own AI agents? No problem, Vincenzo Gambino is here to help with Working with the AI Agents in Drupal CMS - Create your own agents and AI powered migration.
Sessions on even more building blocks of Drupal CMS
As one of the premier adopters of recipes, in Recipes: It's About Time! Martin-Anderson Clutz gives an overview of the benefits of recipes, including practical tips from his extensive experience. Also Jim Birch is presenting the Drupal Recipes Initiative Update.
Joe Shindelar will present Documentation Initiatives for Starshot and Drupal.org, highlighting the new approaches Drupal CMS is taking to create documentation.
Package Manager is behind both the Project Browser and Automatic Updates features in Drupal CMS. Ted Bowman presents Creating Composer aware modules with Drupal core's new Package Manager module to help more developers integrate with this crucial feature.
Concerned for the security of automatically updating and easily installing packages? Supply Chain Security in Drupal and Composer is exactly about that with Christopher Gervais, Tim Lehnen and Neil Drumm.
Privacy Track Lead Jurgen Haas presents Drupal CMS: Golden standard for privacy and data protection covering the incredible journey he went through with other experts in this area to bring simple to use yet widely applicable features to Drupal CMS.
The wonderful new admin navigation UI that is used by Drupal CMS by default is the focus of Drupal Next-Gen Navigation: Enhanced Admin UI and better UX by Cristina Chumillas and Pablo López.
The Dashboard is a key piece of Drupal CMS where users get an overview of what is going on on their site. In From Community Initiative to a Drupal CMS Track: the Dashboard Module Matthew Tift and Christian López Espínola will explain how it came to be and what are the future plans.
Presented by tech leads of Drupal CMS Adam Hoenich and Tim Plunkett, the foundational technologies under Drupal CMS are in focus in Distributions are dead, long live distributions: a Drupal CMS story. They will cover how the installer is built and how one can manage reusable recipes in a project.
Drupal CMS research insights
What Do Marketers Really Want? Unpacking the User Research for Drupal CMS with Bruna Siqueira-Davis and Suzanne Dergacheva will cover the research they did with volunteers on CMS users across platforms and industries. The findings provide insights into the priorities, frustrations, and opportunities that inform how marketers select and use CMS platforms, and specifically what we should prioritize when designing Drupal CMS for marketers.
Drupal CMS at summits and trainings
DrupalEasy is running a Drupal CMS Preview training to provide a hands-on introduction to some of its key features, including installation, Project Browser, recipes, AI integration, and Experience Builder. The agenda includes demos, practical exercises, and a developer Q&A, helping attendees gain confidence in launching future Drupal CMS sites.
Emma Horrell from the Drupal CMS UX team will also present at the Non-Profit Summit.
Drupal CMS Game Show!
Drupal CMS: The Exciting Parts lead by Steve Persch is promising to be a fun "part panel discussion, part game show". If you've been to any of Steve's sessions before, you know this will be good.
Drupal CMS contribution
Last but definitely not least, teams, tracks and initiatives coming together in Drupal CMS will represent at the contribution events at DrupalCon Atlanta. Meet throughout the week at Birds of a Feather discussions about ongoing work and join in at the General Contribution area especially, but not only on the last day. See you there! Not too late to get your ticket!
Join us at DrupalCon Atlanta for two keynotes, more than 20 sessions, contribution opportunities, a dedicated training and even a game show providing deeper insights into Drupal CMS! And this is just a slice of the whole conference!
Two Drupal CMS keynotes and an overview session
The Driesnote on Tuesday provides a premier look at the latest developments and future plans of Drupal CMS, including updates on Experience Builder.
Wednesday afternoon the Drupal CMS Spotlights keynote (page to come) will feature key leaders providing in-depth looks at their respective areas from AI site building through user experience, documentation and of course Experience Builder.
Drupal CMS Product Lead Pamela Barone and UX Lead Cristina Chumillas will present Drupal CMS now and beyond to review the roadmap we went on so far and what is ahead.
Experience Builder sessions
A huge part of Drupal CMS will be Experience Builder (XB). Coming later this year, there is a lot to cover.
In Experience Builder is coming. Are you ready? lead of XB, Lauri Timmanee will show how building Drupal sites will soon become faster and easier than ever before.
Experience Builder will come with a design system of components to use. In Behind the Build: How We're Creating Drupal’s New Default Design System Elliott Mower and Jason Thompson are presenting their early work on this.
Want to integrate your modules or custom features? One of the developers behind XB, Bálint Kléri will show you how in No need to over-React! Navigating Experience Builder as a developer.
Kristen Pol is the lead of the demo design system for XB. In Launch your design system into hyperdrive with Starshot’s Experience Builder, she will share her hands-on experience and provide practical tips.
The UI of Experience Builder itself is under scrutiny in Shaping the Future of Drupal: How Design Thinking + Collaboration is driving Experience Builder with Jillian Chueka and Renee Lund, who are leading designing the XB UI.
Last but not least in The Future of Drupal Theming: AI, Experience Builder, and Beyond Mike Herchel (Drupal Olivero theme's lead) will cover recent developments even beyond Experience Builder.
Drupal CMS AI sessions
AI is the new UI - how we are building AI into Drupal CMS is the place to be to learn from James Abrahams himself on how Drupal CMS built the site building AI features and what comes next.
Marcus Johansson will provide practical tips on no-code feature building with AI in Meet the AI Automators that power everything in Drupal CMS - CKEditor, AI Agents, no code required!
Want to create your own AI agents? No problem, Vincenzo Gambino is here to help with Working with the AI Agents in Drupal CMS - Create your own agents and AI powered migration.
Sessions on even more building blocks of Drupal CMS
As one of the premier adopters of recipes, in Recipes: It's About Time! Martin-Anderson Clutz gives an overview of the benefits of recipes, including practical tips from his extensive experience. Also Jim Birch is presenting the Drupal Recipes Initiative Update.
Joe Shindelar will present Documentation Initiatives for Starshot and Drupal.org, highlighting the new approaches Drupal CMS is taking to create documentation.
Package Manager is behind both the Project Browser and Automatic Updates features in Drupal CMS. Ted Bowman presents Creating Composer aware modules with Drupal core's new Package Manager module to help more developers integrate with this crucial feature.
Concerned for the security of automatically updating and easily installing packages? Supply Chain Security in Drupal and Composer is exactly about that with Christopher Gervais, Tim Lehnen and Neil Drumm.
Privacy Track Lead Jurgen Haas presents Drupal CMS: Golden standard for privacy and data protection covering the incredible journey he went through with other experts in this area to bring simple to use yet widely applicable features to Drupal CMS.
The wonderful new admin navigation UI that is used by Drupal CMS by default is the focus of Drupal Next-Gen Navigation: Enhanced Admin UI and better UX by Cristina Chumillas and Pablo López.
The Dashboard is a key piece of Drupal CMS where users get an overview of what is going on on their site. In From Community Initiative to a Drupal CMS Track: the Dashboard Module Matthew Tift and Christian López Espínola will explain how it came to be and what are the future plans.
Presented by tech leads of Drupal CMS Adam Hoenich and Tim Plunkett, the foundational technologies under Drupal CMS are in focus in Distributions are dead, long live distributions: a Drupal CMS story. They will cover how the installer is built and how one can manage reusable recipes in a project.
Drupal CMS research insights
What Do Marketers Really Want? Unpacking the User Research for Drupal CMS with Bruna Siqueira-Davis and Suzanne Dergacheva will cover the research they did with volunteers on CMS users across platforms and industries. The findings provide insights into the priorities, frustrations, and opportunities that inform how marketers select and use CMS platforms, and specifically what we should prioritize when designing Drupal CMS for marketers.
Drupal CMS at summits and trainings
DrupalEasy is running a Drupal CMS Preview training to provide a hands-on introduction to some of its key features, including installation, Project Browser, recipes, AI integration, and Experience Builder. The agenda includes demos, practical exercises, and a developer Q&A, helping attendees gain confidence in launching future Drupal CMS sites.
Emma Horrell from the Drupal CMS UX team will also present at the Non-Profit Summit.
Drupal CMS Game Show!
Drupal CMS: The Exciting Parts lead by Steve Persch is promising to be a fun "part panel discussion, part game show". If you've been to any of Steve's sessions before, you know this will be good.
Drupal CMS contribution
Last but definitely not least, teams, tracks and initiatives coming together in Drupal CMS will represent at the contribution events at DrupalCon Atlanta. Meet throughout the week at Birds of a Feather discussions about ongoing work and join in at the General Contribution area especially, but not only on the last day. See you there! Not too late to get your ticket!
Navigating Burnout: Common Signs of Burnout among Drupal Contributors and Resources for Support
The “drop is always moving,” and Drupal continues to evolve thanks to the folks who contribute from all over the world. But sometimes, behind all the coding, innovation, and collaborating, people start to lose motivation. In fact, it’s not uncommon for contributors to the Drupal project to experience burnout.
The Drupal Community Working Group is here to help. Part of our charter is to "help to prevent conflict and burnout" burnout, and this article is all about recognizing the signs and finding support.
Burnout can happen when work and life get out of balance. It can appear for lots of reasons. You might feel tired all the time or just plain bored with the same old tasks. Doubts creep in, and you start feeling impostor syndrome. You might feel the symptoms in your body and mind.
Some people in the Drupal community contribute as part of their job; the World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as “chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”
If you’re experiencing burnout, know that you’re not alone. A 2022 study looked at over 32,600 tech workers from 33 countries and found that 62% of the people surveyed reported feeling “physically and emotionally drained.”
Understanding Burnout
Burnout is more than just feeling tired or stressed out. It’s like hitting a wall, emotionally, mentally, and physically, all because of too much stress. In the Drupal community, burnout can manifest in many different ways. Here are some signs:
Decreased Motivation: Some people experience a loss of interest or passion for their work in the Drupal community. Tasks that were once exciting may now feel like a burden.
Increased Irritability: Burnout can lead to heightened levels of frustration and irritability, both in online interactions and real-life interactions within the Drupal community.
Isolation: Burnout often leads to withdrawal from social interactions, both online and offline. You, or someone you know, may become less active in Drupal issue queues, Slack channels, or community events.
Physical Symptoms: Chronic stress and burnout can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and digestive issues.
Finding Support
Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step. Getting through it might require support. Fortunately, the Drupal community offers a variety of resources and support networks to help contributors navigate burnout:
Talk to the community: Drop a line in a Drupal Slack channel where you feel safe sharing (#community-health is a good one). Sometimes, just sharing with people who get it can make a big difference.
Find, or become, a mentor: Look into the Drupal mentoring programs. Finding a mentor can help keep you on track. Becoming a mentor can give your work a different kind of purpose.
Take care of yourself: Consider how you are taking care of your well-being. Are you getting enough sleep? Might you benefit from trying mindfulness or meditation (like a Body Scan)? Are you moving your body with exercise? Are you taking breaks? These are questions only you can answer honestly.
Set limits: Learn to say “no” when you’re already swamped, hand off some tasks, or ask for more time when you need it.
Talk to a professional: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re struggling to cope with burnout. Therapists, counselors, or support groups can provide invaluable assistance in managing stress and improving your well-being.
Conclusion
Sometimes Drupal contributors experience burnout, but it’s not the end of the road. Finding help might require outside help. Sometimes it’s just time to step away from the community indefinitely, and that’s okay, too. Remember, your well-being is paramount, and taking care of yourself ultimately benefits both you and the Drupal ecosystem as a whole.
The Drupal Community Working Group is here to help. Part of our charter is to "help to prevent conflict and burnout" burnout, and this article is all about recognizing the signs and finding support.
Burnout can happen when work and life get out of balance. It can appear for lots of reasons. You might feel tired all the time or just plain bored with the same old tasks. Doubts creep in, and you start feeling impostor syndrome. You might feel the symptoms in your body and mind.
Some people in the Drupal community contribute as part of their job; the World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as “chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”
If you’re experiencing burnout, know that you’re not alone. A 2022 study looked at over 32,600 tech workers from 33 countries and found that 62% of the people surveyed reported feeling “physically and emotionally drained.”
Understanding Burnout
Burnout is more than just feeling tired or stressed out. It’s like hitting a wall, emotionally, mentally, and physically, all because of too much stress. In the Drupal community, burnout can manifest in many different ways. Here are some signs:
Decreased Motivation: Some people experience a loss of interest or passion for their work in the Drupal community. Tasks that were once exciting may now feel like a burden.
Increased Irritability: Burnout can lead to heightened levels of frustration and irritability, both in online interactions and real-life interactions within the Drupal community.
Isolation: Burnout often leads to withdrawal from social interactions, both online and offline. You, or someone you know, may become less active in Drupal issue queues, Slack channels, or community events.
Physical Symptoms: Chronic stress and burnout can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and digestive issues.
Finding Support
Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step. Getting through it might require support. Fortunately, the Drupal community offers a variety of resources and support networks to help contributors navigate burnout:
Talk to the community: Drop a line in a Drupal Slack channel where you feel safe sharing (#community-health is a good one). Sometimes, just sharing with people who get it can make a big difference.
Find, or become, a mentor: Look into the Drupal mentoring programs. Finding a mentor can help keep you on track. Becoming a mentor can give your work a different kind of purpose.
Take care of yourself: Consider how you are taking care of your well-being. Are you getting enough sleep? Might you benefit from trying mindfulness or meditation (like a Body Scan)? Are you moving your body with exercise? Are you taking breaks? These are questions only you can answer honestly.
Set limits: Learn to say “no” when you’re already swamped, hand off some tasks, or ask for more time when you need it.
Talk to a professional: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re struggling to cope with burnout. Therapists, counselors, or support groups can provide invaluable assistance in managing stress and improving your well-being.
Conclusion
Sometimes Drupal contributors experience burnout, but it’s not the end of the road. Finding help might require outside help. Sometimes it’s just time to step away from the community indefinitely, and that’s okay, too. Remember, your well-being is paramount, and taking care of yourself ultimately benefits both you and the Drupal ecosystem as a whole.
Why Local Atlanta Drupal Users Should Attend DrupalCon 2025
Atlanta is home to a vibrant community of tech professionals, developers, and digital strategists, and in 2025, the city will host one of the most important events for the open-source community: DrupalCon Atlanta! Whether you’re a seasoned Drupal developer or new to the world of open-source web development, DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 is an event you won’t want to miss.
We’ve collated some key reasons why you, as a local Atlanta Drupal user, should make plans to attend.
Access to Global Drupal Experts Without Leaving Home
DrupalCon is the premier event for the Drupal community, attracting some of the most influential thought leaders, developers, and contributors from around the globe. As a local Atlanta attendee, you’ll have direct access to these experts—right in your own backyard! Whether it’s through keynotes, panels, or networking opportunities, you’ll be able to learn from the best in the field, gain new perspectives, and apply their insights to your own work.
Networking Opportunities with Local and Global Professionals
DrupalCon isn’t just about learning; it’s also about building connections. As a local attendee, you’ll be able to meet other Atlanta-based developers, designers, project managers, and organizations who use Drupal in their projects. But it’s also a chance to connect with Drupal professionals from across the country and around the world. This mix of local and international attendees opens the door to new opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships you may not have access to otherwise.
Boost Your Career with Professional Development
DrupalCon offers an excellent opportunity to level up your career. With hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions, and in-depth tutorials, you’ll gain new skills, enhance your knowledge, and stay up to date with the latest Drupal updates. Whether you're looking to refine your Drupal development skills, expand your expertise in site architecture, or dive deeper into specific modules, DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 has something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to invest in your professional growth and stand out in a competitive job market.
Be Part of Atlanta’s Growing Tech Community
Atlanta is rapidly becoming a hub for tech innovation, and Drupal is a big part of that. By attending DrupalCon, you'll contribute to and strengthen the city's growing reputation in the tech industry. You'll also get the chance to meet local developers and organizations already making an impact with Drupal, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
As a local, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute your knowledge and experience to the broader Drupal ecosystem while gaining insights from the global Drupal community.
Experience DrupalCon in Your Own City
Hosting DrupalCon in Atlanta means you’ll experience this incredible event in a city known for its hospitality, vibrant culture, and thriving tech scene. When the conference is over for the day, you can explore everything Atlanta has to offer, from world-class dining to historic landmarks and cultural attractions. You won’t have to travel far to be part of the action—just head over to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, and you’re in the heart of it all. This is a great opportunity to easily access some of the best attractions the city has to offer. Stroll over to the Centennial Olympic Park, explore the inspiring National Center for Civil and Human Rights, or dive into history at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Take a ride on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel for incredible views of the city or visit the Georgia Aquarium, the only aquarium in the world where you can see a whale shark.
Attend Local Meetups, Panels, and Networking Events
DrupalCon isn’t just about sessions—it’s also about the local community. The event will feature plenty of opportunities to meet up with local Drupal users, participate in hands-on workshops, and collaborate on solving real-world problems. By attending, you'll deepen your connections with the local Drupal community and help make Atlanta a key player in the Drupal ecosystem. Plus, these local events often feature discussions on how Drupal is being used to solve problems specific to the Atlanta area, making it easier to find solutions for your own projects.
Show Support for Open-Source and Local Businesses
Drupal is an open-source platform, and supporting events like DrupalCon means you’re supporting the open-source movement and the local tech businesses and freelancers who rely on it. By attending DrupalCon, you're not just learning and networking, but also contributing to the broader ecosystem that makes Drupal such a powerful and accessible tool for developers, designers, and organizations everywhere.
Don’t Miss Out—Register Today!
DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 is the perfect chance for local users to immerse themselves in the world of Drupal, connect with professionals, and boost their careers. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone at this exciting event.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Atlanta’s most important open-source conference of the year!
We’ve collated some key reasons why you, as a local Atlanta Drupal user, should make plans to attend.
Access to Global Drupal Experts Without Leaving Home
DrupalCon is the premier event for the Drupal community, attracting some of the most influential thought leaders, developers, and contributors from around the globe. As a local Atlanta attendee, you’ll have direct access to these experts—right in your own backyard! Whether it’s through keynotes, panels, or networking opportunities, you’ll be able to learn from the best in the field, gain new perspectives, and apply their insights to your own work.
Networking Opportunities with Local and Global Professionals
DrupalCon isn’t just about learning; it’s also about building connections. As a local attendee, you’ll be able to meet other Atlanta-based developers, designers, project managers, and organizations who use Drupal in their projects. But it’s also a chance to connect with Drupal professionals from across the country and around the world. This mix of local and international attendees opens the door to new opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships you may not have access to otherwise.
Boost Your Career with Professional Development
DrupalCon offers an excellent opportunity to level up your career. With hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions, and in-depth tutorials, you’ll gain new skills, enhance your knowledge, and stay up to date with the latest Drupal updates. Whether you're looking to refine your Drupal development skills, expand your expertise in site architecture, or dive deeper into specific modules, DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 has something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to invest in your professional growth and stand out in a competitive job market.
Be Part of Atlanta’s Growing Tech Community
Atlanta is rapidly becoming a hub for tech innovation, and Drupal is a big part of that. By attending DrupalCon, you'll contribute to and strengthen the city's growing reputation in the tech industry. You'll also get the chance to meet local developers and organizations already making an impact with Drupal, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
As a local, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute your knowledge and experience to the broader Drupal ecosystem while gaining insights from the global Drupal community.
Experience DrupalCon in Your Own City
Hosting DrupalCon in Atlanta means you’ll experience this incredible event in a city known for its hospitality, vibrant culture, and thriving tech scene. When the conference is over for the day, you can explore everything Atlanta has to offer, from world-class dining to historic landmarks and cultural attractions. You won’t have to travel far to be part of the action—just head over to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, and you’re in the heart of it all. This is a great opportunity to easily access some of the best attractions the city has to offer. Stroll over to the Centennial Olympic Park, explore the inspiring National Center for Civil and Human Rights, or dive into history at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Take a ride on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel for incredible views of the city or visit the Georgia Aquarium, the only aquarium in the world where you can see a whale shark.
Attend Local Meetups, Panels, and Networking Events
DrupalCon isn’t just about sessions—it’s also about the local community. The event will feature plenty of opportunities to meet up with local Drupal users, participate in hands-on workshops, and collaborate on solving real-world problems. By attending, you'll deepen your connections with the local Drupal community and help make Atlanta a key player in the Drupal ecosystem. Plus, these local events often feature discussions on how Drupal is being used to solve problems specific to the Atlanta area, making it easier to find solutions for your own projects.
Show Support for Open-Source and Local Businesses
Drupal is an open-source platform, and supporting events like DrupalCon means you’re supporting the open-source movement and the local tech businesses and freelancers who rely on it. By attending DrupalCon, you're not just learning and networking, but also contributing to the broader ecosystem that makes Drupal such a powerful and accessible tool for developers, designers, and organizations everywhere.
Don’t Miss Out—Register Today!
DrupalCon Atlanta 2025 is the perfect chance for local users to immerse themselves in the world of Drupal, connect with professionals, and boost their careers. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone at this exciting event.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Atlanta’s most important open-source conference of the year!
A Year Like No Other Exploring Milestones from DrupalCon 2024
As we look ahead to what will come in 2025, it's a perfect time to reflect on the remarkable journey our Drupal community has undertaken over the past year. Traditionally, we've gathered at two major annual events—DrupalCon North America and DrupalCon Europe. However, the past year was a year of expansion and innovation, marked by three dynamic DrupalCons in Portland, Barcelona, and Singapore, each contributing uniquely to our project's evolution.
Embracing Innovation in Portland
In May 2024, DrupalCon Portland brought together a diverse group of developers, designers, and strategists. The conference featured a comprehensive schedule, including sessions on community health, development and coding, and user experience. A highlight was the Driesnote, where Dries Buytaert, our founder, provided insights into the future of Drupal. The event also emphasized contribution, with dedicated spaces for general contribution and Birds of a Feather (BoF) sessions, fostering collaboration and community engagement.
Celebrating Community in Barcelona
September 2024 saw us gather in Barcelona for an event that exemplified Drupal's global reach and collaborative spirit. The conference featured over 100 sessions and four inspiring keynotes, covering a wide array of topics from technical deep dives to business strategies. The Women in Drupal Award was a highlight, recognizing significant contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.
The Driesnote provided deep insights into the future of Drupal, including updates on the Drupal Starshot Initiative, which aims to make Drupal more accessible and user-friendly, particularly for non-developers.
Expanding Horizons in Singapore
December 2024 marked Drupal's return to Asia with DrupalCon Singapore, the first in the region in six years. The event was a vibrant mix of learning, networking, and innovation, featuring the inaugural DrupalCon Splash Awards in Asia, which recognized the best Drupal sites in the region. Exclusive training opportunities were offered, catering to new users as well as backend and frontend developers.
The conference schedule was packed with sessions that highlighted Drupal's versatility and its application across various industries. The Driesnote provided attendees with updates on the progress of the Starshot Initiative and the upcoming release of Drupal 11, targeted for August 2024, with a fallback of December 2024.
Looking Ahead to Atlanta
With such a successful year behind us, we're now setting our sights on DrupalCon Atlanta 2025. Scheduled for 24-27 March, 2025, this event promises to build upon the momentum of 2024, offering even more opportunities for learning, collaboration, and innovation. As we prepare for this upcoming conference, it's worth reflecting on the insights gained from the past year's events and how they can inform our contributions moving forward.
Why Engaging with the Community Matters?
Attending DrupalCons offers more than just access to sessions and keynotes; it's about becoming part of a global community dedicated to open-source excellence. The networking opportunities, collaborative sessions, and the chance to contribute to Drupal's future are invaluable experiences that can significantly enhance your professional journey.
For those who couldn't attend the 2024 conferences, the session recordings provide a treasure trove of information and insights. Engaging with these materials can help you stay abreast of the latest developments and prepare you for active participation in future events.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting back on the past year, it's evident that our Drupal community made significant strides in innovation, inclusivity, and global collaboration. The introduction of the Starshot Initiative and the forthcoming Drupal 11 signal a new era for Drupal, one that emphasizes accessibility and user-friendliness.
As we look forward to DrupalCon Atlanta 2025, let's carry forward the lessons learned and the connections made, continuing to build a robust and inclusive community. Whether you're a seasoned developer or new to Drupal, there's a place for you in this journey.
Here's to another year of growth, collaboration, and shared success in the Drupal ecosystem.
Embracing Innovation in Portland
In May 2024, DrupalCon Portland brought together a diverse group of developers, designers, and strategists. The conference featured a comprehensive schedule, including sessions on community health, development and coding, and user experience. A highlight was the Driesnote, where Dries Buytaert, our founder, provided insights into the future of Drupal. The event also emphasized contribution, with dedicated spaces for general contribution and Birds of a Feather (BoF) sessions, fostering collaboration and community engagement.
Celebrating Community in Barcelona
September 2024 saw us gather in Barcelona for an event that exemplified Drupal's global reach and collaborative spirit. The conference featured over 100 sessions and four inspiring keynotes, covering a wide array of topics from technical deep dives to business strategies. The Women in Drupal Award was a highlight, recognizing significant contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.
The Driesnote provided deep insights into the future of Drupal, including updates on the Drupal Starshot Initiative, which aims to make Drupal more accessible and user-friendly, particularly for non-developers.
Expanding Horizons in Singapore
December 2024 marked Drupal's return to Asia with DrupalCon Singapore, the first in the region in six years. The event was a vibrant mix of learning, networking, and innovation, featuring the inaugural DrupalCon Splash Awards in Asia, which recognized the best Drupal sites in the region. Exclusive training opportunities were offered, catering to new users as well as backend and frontend developers.
The conference schedule was packed with sessions that highlighted Drupal's versatility and its application across various industries. The Driesnote provided attendees with updates on the progress of the Starshot Initiative and the upcoming release of Drupal 11, targeted for August 2024, with a fallback of December 2024.
Looking Ahead to Atlanta
With such a successful year behind us, we're now setting our sights on DrupalCon Atlanta 2025. Scheduled for 24-27 March, 2025, this event promises to build upon the momentum of 2024, offering even more opportunities for learning, collaboration, and innovation. As we prepare for this upcoming conference, it's worth reflecting on the insights gained from the past year's events and how they can inform our contributions moving forward.
Why Engaging with the Community Matters?
Attending DrupalCons offers more than just access to sessions and keynotes; it's about becoming part of a global community dedicated to open-source excellence. The networking opportunities, collaborative sessions, and the chance to contribute to Drupal's future are invaluable experiences that can significantly enhance your professional journey.
For those who couldn't attend the 2024 conferences, the session recordings provide a treasure trove of information and insights. Engaging with these materials can help you stay abreast of the latest developments and prepare you for active participation in future events.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting back on the past year, it's evident that our Drupal community made significant strides in innovation, inclusivity, and global collaboration. The introduction of the Starshot Initiative and the forthcoming Drupal 11 signal a new era for Drupal, one that emphasizes accessibility and user-friendliness.
As we look forward to DrupalCon Atlanta 2025, let's carry forward the lessons learned and the connections made, continuing to build a robust and inclusive community. Whether you're a seasoned developer or new to Drupal, there's a place for you in this journey.
Here's to another year of growth, collaboration, and shared success in the Drupal ecosystem.
DrupalCon Singapore 2024: A Vibrant Celebration of the Drupal Community
DrupalCon Singapore 2024 was an extraordinary gathering of developers, marketers, and business leaders, uniting passionate minds to celebrate innovation and collaboration within the Drupal ecosystem across Asia. This milestone event marked a return of DrupalCon to Asia, made possible by the vision and hard work of the Drupal Asia Steering Committee—a dynamic group of volunteers from around the globe. Their efforts ignited a sense of excitement and camaraderie, engaging both new and seasoned community members.
A Dream Realized: The Steering Committee’s Role
The Drupal Asia Steering Committee, formed in 2023 under the Linux Australia Council, played a pivotal role in organizing this spectacular event. As a community-driven initiative, the committee’s dedication to fostering connections and growth within the Drupal ecosystem was evident in every aspect of the conference. Their collaborative efforts with the Drupal Association laid the groundwork for an unforgettable experience.
To learn more about the Asia Steering Committee or to get involved in future DrupalCons in Asia, visit drupalasia.org.
Event Highlights at a Glance
Here’s a snapshot of the key moments, milestones, and takeaways from DrupalCon Singapore 2024. For a more detailed view, please view the recap.
Key Metrics:
Total Registrations: 253 participants from diverse professional backgrounds, with an impressive 54% attending their first-ever DrupalCon!
Complimentary Tickets: 21% of attendees received complimentary passes, showcasing the community’s inclusivity.
Registration Type
Number of Registrations
Paid
200
Complimentary
53
Top countries by attendance:
India: 61 attendees
Singapore: 41 attendees
Australia: 36 attendees
Japan: 27 attendees
Program and Sessions:
Sessions Delivered: 41 impactful talks, including inspiring keynotes from industry leaders.
Topics: From Drupal CMS advancements to real-world case studies on digital transformation.
Contribution: Sold out with 110 registrations and high demand for additional spots.
The International Splash Awards made an exciting return to Asia, celebrating exceptional websites and digital experiences built with Drupal. Congratulations to the winners!
View the full list of winners.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
Thank You, Sponsors! DrupalCon Singapore 2024 was powered by an incredible array of sponsors who provided invaluable support for everything from coffee breaks, awards ceremonies, and everything in between! Their contributions made this event possible, and we are deeply grateful.
Expo Hall Highlights: The vibrant Expo Hall featured 12 sponsor booths alongside dedicated spaces for the Drupal Association and the Community Booth. These provided unique networking opportunities and showcased ways for attendees to stay engaged with the Drupal community.
Attendee Feedback: A Resounding Success
Post-event surveys painted a bright picture:
Overall Satisfaction: 81% of respondents rated their DrupalCon experience as Excellent or Good.
Valuable Insights: Attendees shared constructive feedback on improving future events, offered topic suggestions, and even proposed ideas for upcoming DrupalCon locations.
Looking Ahead
DrupalCons remain a cornerstone event for the global Drupal community, fostering learning, networking, and innovation. The success of DrupalCon Singapore 2024 underscores the community’s passion and commitment to advancing web development and supporting emerging talent.
Stay tuned for details on future DrupalCons by visiting the Drupal Association Events page.
This year’s DrupalCon Asia was more than just a conference—it was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community. I can’t wait to see where the journey takes us next!
A Dream Realized: The Steering Committee’s Role
The Drupal Asia Steering Committee, formed in 2023 under the Linux Australia Council, played a pivotal role in organizing this spectacular event. As a community-driven initiative, the committee’s dedication to fostering connections and growth within the Drupal ecosystem was evident in every aspect of the conference. Their collaborative efforts with the Drupal Association laid the groundwork for an unforgettable experience.
To learn more about the Asia Steering Committee or to get involved in future DrupalCons in Asia, visit drupalasia.org.
Event Highlights at a Glance
Here’s a snapshot of the key moments, milestones, and takeaways from DrupalCon Singapore 2024. For a more detailed view, please view the recap.
Key Metrics:
Total Registrations: 253 participants from diverse professional backgrounds, with an impressive 54% attending their first-ever DrupalCon!
Complimentary Tickets: 21% of attendees received complimentary passes, showcasing the community’s inclusivity.
Registration Type
Number of Registrations
Paid
200
Complimentary
53
Top countries by attendance:
India: 61 attendees
Singapore: 41 attendees
Australia: 36 attendees
Japan: 27 attendees
Program and Sessions:
Sessions Delivered: 41 impactful talks, including inspiring keynotes from industry leaders.
Topics: From Drupal CMS advancements to real-world case studies on digital transformation.
Contribution: Sold out with 110 registrations and high demand for additional spots.
The International Splash Awards made an exciting return to Asia, celebrating exceptional websites and digital experiences built with Drupal. Congratulations to the winners!
View the full list of winners.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
Thank You, Sponsors! DrupalCon Singapore 2024 was powered by an incredible array of sponsors who provided invaluable support for everything from coffee breaks, awards ceremonies, and everything in between! Their contributions made this event possible, and we are deeply grateful.
Expo Hall Highlights: The vibrant Expo Hall featured 12 sponsor booths alongside dedicated spaces for the Drupal Association and the Community Booth. These provided unique networking opportunities and showcased ways for attendees to stay engaged with the Drupal community.
Attendee Feedback: A Resounding Success
Post-event surveys painted a bright picture:
Overall Satisfaction: 81% of respondents rated their DrupalCon experience as Excellent or Good.
Valuable Insights: Attendees shared constructive feedback on improving future events, offered topic suggestions, and even proposed ideas for upcoming DrupalCon locations.
Looking Ahead
DrupalCons remain a cornerstone event for the global Drupal community, fostering learning, networking, and innovation. The success of DrupalCon Singapore 2024 underscores the community’s passion and commitment to advancing web development and supporting emerging talent.
Stay tuned for details on future DrupalCons by visiting the Drupal Association Events page.
This year’s DrupalCon Asia was more than just a conference—it was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community. I can’t wait to see where the journey takes us next!
