Technology has the power to change the world. And thought has the power to change technology. By gathering some of the most important thought leaders from around the world, the International Research Forum (IRF) of SAP Research helps identify trends, explore opportunities, and propose solutions to the most pressing technological, social, and economic issues of our time.

The IRF is an invitation-only think tank with renowned international academic and industry leaders as well as experts and thought-leaders from various areas discussing the latest IT trends. Results and subsequent discussions from the IRF are being worked up and continued via regular book publications.

Fourth International Research Forum, April 28 - 29, 2009

The fourth IRF took place in Dresden, Germany, April 28 - 29, 2009, with a focus on "The Internet of Things: Reality or Hype?" The topics and trends discussed include:

• End-to-end real world awareness
• Infrastructure of the Internet of things
• Potential "killer" applications
• Future manufacturing

Watch the IRF 2009 video on "The Internet of Things."

Past International Research Forums

Read about the themes and topics discussed at past International Research Forums from 2006, 2007, and 2008. And download International Research Forum books based on conference proceedings and subsequent research.