AI Innovation and Human Connection: The Real Power of Dreamforce 2024
Attending Dreamforce is always an exhilarating experience. This year was no exception, especially as Salesforce's latest AI innovations took center stage. But beyond the awe-inspiring keynotes and exciting product announcements, what stood out most was the undeniable power of relationships. At its core, Dreamforce is as much about the people as it is about the technology, and it was clear that this year, the importance of building genuine, long-lasting partnerships has never been more essential.
The Rhythm of Relationships
Dreamforce offered the opportunity to reconnect with clients, prospects, and Salesforce colleagues in-person. Our team's experiences are a testament to the event’s strength in fostering meaningful conversations that deepen client relationships. Orion kicked-off the event by co-hosting along with Sumo Scheduler and Upland a well-attended, fun-filled, DJ-hosted karaoke happy hour that attracted over 150 guests! We also sponsored an intimate dinner for consumer goods organizations, leading to great conversations and fantastic opportunities to build bonds and expand their network.
““As more clients talk and share their experiences with each other, it opens up discussions around innovation, which is valuable for both our clients and prospects considering working with us.”
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One particular meeting with a prospective client stood out. The face-to-face interaction allowed our team to build a deeper connection and showcase Orion’s commitment to change management—something that ultimately led to a breakthrough in securing future work. We also benefited from running into an existing consumer goods client who spontaneously offered a glowing referral.
These interactions were not just about small talk; they were about creating a two-way street where feedback could be exchanged, challenges discussed, and potential collaborations explored. In fact, it wasn’t just the clients who left Dreamforce feeling energized; the team itself walked away with fresh perspectives and new ideas to better serve their clients. This reciprocal relationship between clients, partners, and prospects underpinned every conversation.
Salesforce's AI Revolution: Enter Agentforce
While relationships were the heart of Dreamforce, Salesforce’s AI innovations, including their new Agentforce, were undoubtedly the star. Salesforce has shifted their AI strategy to focus on something more actionable for clients and the Orion team is ready to implement meaningful and creative solutions!
Agentforce, the evolution of Einstein GPT, is a more focused AI solution that empowers businesses to build specific, data-driven agents within Salesforce environments. We see this as a game-changer, especially for the high-tech and consumer goods industries. Both the internal teams as well as their customers drive the CRM and AI requirements. Whether it’s a high-tech company easily communicating through an AI-enhanced chat or a consumer goods company monitoring trends and delivering AI-created product recommendations.
What makes Agentforce stand out is its user-friendly integration, allowing businesses to build off existing systems while enhancing functionality with AI. As Salesforce continues to refine its AI offerings, Agentforce stands poised to become a pivotal tool for companies looking to elevate their CRM systems to new heights.
Private Equity's Enthusiasm for AI
Dreamforce also served as a platform for key industries to explore how AI could transform their workflows. The private equity sector, in particular, showed strong interest in how Agentforce could streamline operations and provide actionable insights.
Orion was proud to partner with Salesforce, Wharton University of Pennsylvania, Alpha Omega, and Carta, to sponsor a private equity/venture capital wine pairing networking event. Of course, AI became a hot topic of discussion. It was clear that industry leaders are beginning to realize the value of generative AI in creating efficiencies, making informed decisions, and scaling businesses.
Dreamforce: More Than Just Technology
Dreamforce 2024 reinforced that relationships are the glue that binds every innovation, project, and opportunity together. The event provided the perfect venue to connect with clients, partners, and Salesforce peers. And as AI innovations like Agentforce continue to reshape the future of technology, it’s the human relationships built along the way that will drive meaningful transformation for years to come.
From catching up with long-time clients and meeting new prospects to brainstorming with Salesforce colleagues, Dreamforce once again delivered the perfect mix of people and technology.