Earlier this March, I had the opportunity to attend the Esri Partner Conference (EPC) and Developer Summit (DevSummit) in Palm Springs, California. This marked my fifth time attending EPC. Every time I go, I’m reminded that while the sessions, product updates, and technical insights are invaluable, the real benefit lies in the connections and networking that happen throughout the event. It’s an experience that extends beyond the formal agenda—one that reinforces why attending these events is essential for any organization leveraging Esri’s technology.
Plenary Session: Setting the Stage for Innovation
The Plenary Session at EPC is always a highlight, and this year was no different. Jack Dangermond kicked things off with his signature enthusiasm and deep insights about the future of GIS. The session showcased the latest updates to the ArcGIS ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on AI integration, ArcGIS Knowledge Graphs, and real-time geospatial analytics. It was exciting to see demonstrations of how ArcGIS Pro, Enterprise, and Online continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in geospatial technology.
One of the standout demonstrations highlighted how ArcGIS Image Analyst and ArcGIS Pro are leveraging AI to detect and classify objects in imagery at unprecedented speeds. Another session explored how ArcGIS Knowledge Graphs and AI-driven link analysis are transforming how we analyze complex spatial relationships and networks. As AI continues to evolve, it’s clear that Esri is positioning its technology to empower organizations to harness these capabilities for more intelligent, data-driven decision-making.
Technical and Sales Sessions: A Balanced Approach
While the Plenary provided a glimpse into the future, I spent a significant portion of my time attending sales-focused sessions designed to help partners better promote Esri products and effectively sell geospatial services. These sessions were packed with insights on how to align Esri’s technology stack with client needs, demonstrate the value of enterprise GIS, and position services in a way that maximizes impact for clients.
One of the key takeaways was the importance of understanding customer pain points and tailoring solutions that address real-world challenges. Whether it’s highlighting the benefits of migrating to ArcGIS Online for improved collaboration or promoting the power of ArcGIS Enterprise for organizations requiring on-premises control, these sessions emphasized that successful selling is rooted in serving clients better. I also picked up valuable strategies for building long-term relationships with clients by offering managed services and ongoing GIS support—an approach that aligns perfectly with the goals of Maurer-Stutz Geospatial Services (MSGS).
The Real Value: Networking and Collaboration
As much as I enjoy the technical content, the most meaningful part of attending EPC and DevSummit is the networking. Being in Palm Springs with GIS professionals, developers, and partners from around the world creates countless opportunities to exchange ideas, solve challenges, and explore new partnerships. Whether it’s a chance encounter over coffee or a deeper conversation during a breakout session, these connections often lead to collaborations that drive real value long after the event ends.
This year, I had the opportunity to reconnect with old colleagues, meet potential partners, and strengthen relationships with other Esri partners. Conversations ranged from sharing best practices for enterprise GIS management to brainstorming ideas for integrating emerging technologies into our service offerings. These interactions are what make attending EPC and DevSummit more than just a learning experience—they make it an opportunity to build relationships that fuel growth and innovation.
A Minor Perk: Escaping Central Illinois in March😉
Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the minor perk of escaping the unpredictable weather of Central Illinois in early March. Palm Springs provides the perfect backdrop for a week of learning and networking, with its warm sunshine and stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Even though it did rain for a day or two, it’s still a welcome change from the Midwest’s lingering winter, and it certainly adds to the appeal of making the annual trek to EPC and DevSummit.
Why I Keep Coming Back
After five EPCs, I can confidently say that attending is about more than just staying up to date with the latest GIS technology—it’s about being part of a community that’s shaping the future of geospatial innovation. The sessions provide the knowledge, but the connections provide the inspiration and momentum to apply that knowledge in ways that drive real impact.
If you’re considering attending in the future, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re a developer looking to deepen your technical expertise, a business leader focused on expanding your GIS capabilities, or a partner aiming to better serve your clients, EPC and DevSummit offer a unique blend of learning, networking, and inspiration that’s hard to find anywhere else. Plus, a little sunshine in Palm Springs doesn’t hurt either.
Got Questions about this Blog? We can tell you what we know. Fill out the form below and we will get back to you as soon as we can.