Technology has the power to change the world. And thought has the power to change technology. By gathering some of the most important thought leaders from around the world, the International Research Forum (IRF) of SAP Research helps identify trends, explore opportunities, and propose solutions to the most pressing technological, social, and economic issues of our time.

The IRF is an invitation-only think tank with renowned international academic and industry leaders as well as experts and thought-leaders from various areas discussing the latest IT trends. Results and subsequent discussions from the IRF are being worked up and continued via regular book publications.

Fifth International Research Forum, April 27 - 28, 2010

The fifth IRF will take place in Westerburg, Germany, April 27 - 28, 2010, with a focus on "The Future Internet: Right Here, Right Now." The topics and trends to be discussed include:

• The Future Internet – a reality in the making?
• Business model innovation – from an analogue toward a digital economy
• Paving the way for the Future Internet – refining the technological foundations
• Possible hurdles on the road toward the Future Internet

Past International Research Forums

Read about the themes and topics discussed at past International Research Forums from 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009. And download International Research Forum books based on conference proceedings and subsequent research.