The technology behind the cryptocurrency blockchain is the subject of numerous myths, which will be addressed at the Blockchain PreMasters event on 12 December 2017 in Cologne. Lars Steffen, Business Development and Member Services, is the contact person for this topic at eco- Association of the Internet industry. In the interview, Lars Steffen reveals, among other things, what visitors can expect from the Blockchain PreMasters.
Mr. Steffen, why does blockchain technology sit somewhere between disruptive potential and hype?
Hardly a day goes by without a new all-time high for Bitcoin, the launch of an initial coin offering (ICO), or the foundation of a start-up, all of which want to use the blockchain technology to transform established business models. Of course, this is very exciting and the technology certainly offers potential to challenge traditional approaches.
As with any other technology, blockchain should always be evaluated in terms of its relevant advantages over other solutions for the respective application. Blockchain technology opens up many new disruptive possibilities, but it is not a panacea.
Who would you like to address with the Blockchain PreMasters event in Cologne?
The Blockchain PreMasters event is targeted in principle at all those who want to get a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of blockchain technology within one day. Often, the cryptocurrency Bitcoin is still equated with blockchain.
Although blockchain technology is the basis of Bitcoin, it is only one of many application examples for which you can use blockchain. What these examples are, how the technology works, and what this means for existing business models – all of this will be discussed during the event in Cologne on 12 December 2017.
What is the main thematic focus of this event?
To get a comprehensive overview, experts will highlight a number of areas for blockchain applications, outline the technology principles, and discuss the implications for safety, legal and regulatory issues.
The event is called “PreMasters” – will the “Blockchain Masters” be announced afterwards?
Absolutely right. The Blockchain PreMasters event (12 December 2017) in Cologne is a “warm-up” for the Blockchain Masters, which will take place on 15 February 2018. In Hamburg, we want to raise the topic of blockchain to a higher level. Blockchain experts, IT managers, and business decision-makers will meet to discuss current trends and new strategies, as well as exchange experiences over the course of an extensive conference program.
Here we will also take a closer look at selected applications and their effects on society, infrastructure, and security, as well as on legal issues. In addition, we will offer a one-and-a-half-day intensive workshop prior to the conference, in which a small group of blockchain experts will develop their own use cases.
