The Scottish Db2 User Group (SDUG) returned to Edinburgh on 30 June, bringing together Db2 and mainframe professionals for a day of technical knowledge sharing, industry insights and networking.
Hosted by NatWest in Edinburgh, the event welcomed attendees from across the Db2 community, creating opportunities to learn from expert speakers, discuss shared challenges and connect with peers working across Db2, z/OS and the wider mainframe ecosystem.
A Packed Day of Technical Content
This year’s agenda featured a wide variety of presentations from industry experts covering topics across database performance, security, recovery and workload management.
Representing Triton Consulting, IBM Champion and Head of Infrastructure Services Gareth Copplestone-Jones delivered two sessions, including one on Sysplex Workload Balancing, sharing practical insights into performance optimisation and resilience for Db2 for z/OS environments.
The event also included presentations from experts across the broader mainframe community. Among the highlights were sessions from IBM’s Karen Wilkins as well as Broadcom’s Michal Bialecki, who delivered multiple presentations during the day, including a session on securing and monitoring Db2 connections using profile tables.
Several discussions throughout the day focused on the challenges currently facing organisations, with key themes including cost optimisation, AI and performance management. These topics generated lively conversations both during and between sessions, highlighting the evolving priorities of the Db2 community.
Knowledge Sharing at the Heart of SDUG
One of the enduring strengths of SDUG is its ability to bring together professionals from across the industry in an open and collaborative environment.
Throughout the day, conversations continued between sessions as attendees shared experiences, discussed emerging challenges and exchanged ideas on best practices. Whether the topic was Db2 performance, recovery strategies, security or infrastructure management, there was no shortage of expertise and willingness to share knowledge.
For Triton’s Alan Roberts, one of the standout aspects of the day was the opportunity to engage with the next generation of mainframe professionals.
“One of my personal highlights was seeing so many younger people attending and focusing on Z. Building those relationships and getting to know them is incredibly important—they’re the future of our community.”
Alan also highlighted the unique value that SDUG brings to both experienced practitioners and those earlier in their careers:
“SDUG affords experienced and less experienced Db2 professionals the chance to get to know each other and forge relationships that help both individuals and the platform as a whole.”
Events such as SDUG continue to provide an excellent opportunity to stay up to date with the latest developments, strengthen professional networks and contribute to the wider mainframe community.
A Community Effort
Events like SDUG are only possible thanks to the dedication of organisers, speakers and hosts.
A special thank you goes to the SDUG organising team for delivering another successful event. We would also like to thank NatWest for hosting and providing an excellent venue in the heart of Edinburgh.
Reflecting on the event, Alan commented on the atmosphere and sense of community that was evident throughout the day:
“It was a very well-organised event, full of like-minded and friendly people who share a passion for Db2 on z/OS. Everyone is keen to help one another, lift each other up and ultimately make both individuals and organisations more successful.”
Thank You from Triton
Triton Consulting was delighted to be part of another successful SDUG meeting. Thank you to everyone who attended Gareth’s session, stopped by for a chat with Gareth and Alan, or shared their experiences throughout the day.
The enthusiasm, expertise and collaboration on display throughout the event are a reminder of why the Db2 community remains such a valuable and supportive network. We look forward to seeing everyone again at future SDUG events.