On 29 October, DAMA NL brought data professionals together in Amsterdam for an evening exploring a timely question: how can AI make complex data migrations faster, more reliable and more valuable to the business? Hosted by DAMA NL Friend Nextgenlytics, the event combined practical demonstrations, open discussion and networking. Erik Fransen opened on behalf of DAMA NL, followed by a welcome from Emilio Piers of Nextgenlytics.

Raja Devarapu, CEO of Nextgenlytics, reflected on lessons from ERP, CRM, BI and data-warehouse migrations. Fragmented application landscapes, legacy systems and inconsistent data continue to make transformation programmes difficult. Nextgenlytics presented BlueGecko, its AI-native platform for discovery, mapping, transformation, data-quality checks and validation, showing how parts of the migration process can be supported by AI agents.

The evening then moved beyond migration to a preview of YOA, an AI-driven approach to building applications around business processes. Using a fictional machinery manufacturer with multiple acquired systems, Raja demonstrated how a semantic model and knowledge graph can connect machines, spare parts, suppliers, dealers and telematics data. The example illustrated AI-assisted dealer onboarding and parts intelligence without first waiting for a multi-year ERP replacement or application-rationalisation programme.

The audience discussion brought the crucial data-management questions to the surface. How reliable are answers when the underlying data is inconsistent? Where is the source of truth for warranty information? Who approves business rules, and who maintains AI-generated functionality after go-live? Raja emphasised the importance of domain experts, named business ownership and meaningful human approval. Connecting information through a semantic layer can make it usable; it does not automatically resolve every quality or governance issue.

The main takeaway was clear: start with a business process that matters, deliver value early, and build on trusted data and accountable governance. That combination of innovation, practical scrutiny and shared learning is exactly what DAMA NL aims to foster through its community and events.

Many thanks to Nextgenlytics, Raja Devarapu, Emilio Piers and everyone who contributed questions and ideas—and to all who continued the conversation over drinks.

Aftermovie DAMA Drink