Our first customer event, “CPQ & Connect,” is now behind us, and we are delighted by the positive feedback from both our guests and colleagues. It was exactly what we had hoped for: an open and honest exchange among peers. Over the course of two days, we were reminded just how valuable face-to-face interactions are, especially in today’s world. After all, software development and successful projects thrive on collaboration and strong relationships.
The tone was set the evening before the main event. We kicked things off with a brewery tour at the Braugasthof Papiermühle Jena, creating a relaxed and informal atmosphere from the very beginning. Instead of name tags and structured networking sessions, conversations developed naturally. Over dinner, people listened, discussed, shared experiences, and laughed together.
What made the evening particularly special was the spontaneous exchange between customers and project managers. Conversations emerged organically, covering everything from projects and challenges to solutions and future ideas.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at ORISA
The event day itself focused on content and, above all, on our customers’ perspectives. A total of seven presentations provided valuable insights, ranging from real-world project implementations and technical deep dives to behind-the-scenes perspectives from ORISA’s development team.
Sylvia Ensslen, Head of CREALIS Development, demonstrated how automated testing helps ensure the long-term reliability of complex rule systems. Matthias Walther, Head of Technology Development at ORISA, shared insights into cybersecurity, while Michael Frosch, ORISA Account Manager, invited attendees to explore the immersive world of virtual reality.
The presentations delivered by our guest speakers, Michael Frank and Michael Mörs, were equally well received. Mr. Mörs from SMA Development GmbH, based in Jena, demonstrated how an AI-powered funnel model can predict user product selections in the Porsche configurator based on clickstream behavior. That artificial intelligence has already found its way into product configuration was impressively illustrated by Sarah Steinbach, ORISA Project Management Trainee. Through a series of practical examples, she showed how AI is shaping the future of CPQ solutions and where the industry is headed next.
Another highlight was an in-depth look at the Faulhaber project, which was intentionally designed differently from traditional ORISA product configurator implementations in several respects. We would like to extend our special thanks to Patrick Schmetzer from Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG, whose practical presentation shared valuable experiences and key lessons learned, providing plenty of food for thought and discussion.
One of the most significant benefits of the event quickly became apparent: customers learn from one another. Representatives from Baumer hhs GmbH, Everllence, iTD, LAMILUX, Otto Christ, and ZEISS Microscopy shared their experiences and approaches to working with CPQ solutions. While all participants use CPQ on a daily basis, it became clear that CREALIS® can be utilized in highly individual ways. Some organizations use their configurator primarily as a sales tool, while others focus on internal process optimization or automation. This diversity of approaches opened up new perspectives and inspired concrete ideas for future improvements.
One key takeaway stood out: there is no single “right” way to use a CPQ solution. Instead, there are many successful approaches, and discovering them requires open dialogue and peer-to-peer exchange. To foster meaningful discussions, the event was intentionally kept small. With 17 participants from a wide range of industries and professional backgrounds, including project managers, IT leaders, CEOs, and digital specialists, the setting allowed for genuine interaction and in-depth conversations.
Open-minded, engaged, and driven by genuine curiosity, participants spent the day discussing not only software, but also the people behind the screens who work with our CREALIS® solution every day.
Looking Forward to the Next Customer Event
CPQ & Connect demonstrated that personal encounters cannot be replaced. Especially in an increasingly digital world, these are the moments that build trust, strengthen relationships, and drive innovation.
The overwhelmingly positive feedback has been both rewarding and motivating. We are committed to expanding these opportunities for exchange and creating even more space for meaningful conversations and connections in the future. One thing is certain: taking the time to share perspectives, ideas, and experiences is always worthwhile.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this event. We are already looking forward to the next CPQ & Connect!