This year's speaking formats are designed to spark deeper conversations, inspire specific action, and push the boundaries of how we practice delivery and ensure quality:

CROSS-FUNCTIONAL PROBLEM SOLVING SESSION (2 hours) 

Have an interesting problem you are looking for help in solving? This year we are building in time for experts to come together and solve very specific problems... work through them, test out ideas and come out with very clear solutions and next steps that will be used for ongoing training workshops and content for the global AST community. 

Attendees will be required to apply for these sessions as experts

EXPERIMENTAL / EXPERIENTIAL SESSIONS (90 Min / 45 Min)
These technical focused, hands-on sessions should immerse participants in new skills, techniques, or methodologies with very specific takeaways and outcomes.

Propose activities that encourage problem-solving, experimentation, and collaboration. We’re looking for innovative formats that help attendees learn new skills by doing. 

WORKSHOPS & TUTORIALS (3.5 hour / 7 hour)

Extensive deep dive into specific topics with interactive, skill-building workshops & tutorials. Ideal proposals will focus on practical, actionable takeaways and allow participants to leave with new foundational skillsets.

Another option is to identify a specific problem / research topic you would like to explore in depth and collaborate on with peers and SMEs and put together a research paper / solution or some kind of other output that could be published and shared with the larger community. 

For more information on workshop format and guidelines visit: https://associationforsoftwaretesting.org/workshops/

LIGHTNING TALKS (5 - 10 Min) 

Have a big idea but want to start small? Share your insights in a quick, 5–10-minute presentation that gets straight to the point. Lightning Talks are a great way to introduce new topics or share a unique perspective with the community and sign ups occur at the event. 

POSTER PAPERS (Open Discussion) 
Perfect for those exploring a new topic or testing out ideas for a new talk, Poster Papers give you the chance to present your research, challenges, or solutions in a visual and informal format. Engage with attendees one-on-one, spark discussions, and gather feedback to refine your ideas.

WHO YOU ARE

We’re seeking individuals who are ready to be at the forefront of the conversation around the gray areas between functions. Those who are driven by curiosity, aren’t afraid to challenge established norms, and are passionate about shaping the future of quality as a shared responsibility. 

Key Traits Include: 

• Critical Thinking
  You question assumptions and dig deeper to uncover the root of challenges. You’re someone who thrives on exploring ideas from different angles to uncover innovative solutions that make a real impact.
• Challenging the Status Quo
  You believe there’s always room to grow and improve. Whether it’s questioning outdated methods or introducing bold new ideas, you’re ready to push the boundaries and inspire others to rethink the way things have always been done.
• Thoughtful Innovation
  You’re constantly on the lookout for fresh approaches, creative solutions, and transformative ideas. You’re not afraid to test, fail, and learn as you explore the possibilities of what could be.
• Collaborative Leadership
  You see the value in sharing ideas, learning from others, and building something bigger than yourself. You thrive on discussions that lead to growth, both for yourself and for the wider community.
• Practical Problem Solving
  You focus on practical solutions that work in the real world using experience reports and case studies. You’re eager to equip others with tools, strategies, and insights that they can apply to make an immediate difference in their work

PLEASE NOTE: Though we love receiving proposals from our AST member community it is not a requirement and welcome proposals from our global testing community and cross-functional partners with wisdom to share!