International User Group (IUG) Conference 2027
June 1-3 I Cologne, Germany
Join us for the International User Groups (IUG) Conference 2027 in Cologne, Germany, from June 1–3. Expect 2+ days packed with fresh ideas, real-world insights, hands-on experiences and the people shaping what’s next.
IUG 2026 set a new benchmark, bringing together a record number of attendees from around the world and more customer speakers than ever before. Now, we’re taking that energy to Cologne and making the next edition even bigger.
Expect even more opportunities to hear directly from fellow users, connect with experts, get hands-on with the latest developments and exchange ideas with a truly international community.
See what’s next. Meet the people making it happen. And make sure you’re part of IUG 2027.
Check out impressions from the 2026 event 👆
Program overview
* Please note that agenda is subject to change. A more detailed agenda will be released closer to the event.
PRE-CONFERENCE
Tuesday, June 1
12.00 – 1.00 pm: Lunch
1.00 – 5.00 pm: Innovation Labs
Go beyond the presentation and get your hands on what’s coming next. In our Innovation Labs, you’ll explore future versions and new features before release, guided by Software AG experts. Test new functionality, put it through its paces and share your feedback directly with the people developing it.
1.00 – 5.30 pm: Product Training
Boost your skills with our free product training sessions. Led by experts, these training workshops help you master our software, discover best practices, and deepen your knowledge.
5.00 – 7.00 pm: Welcome Reception
Kick off the conference by checking in, picking up your badge, and settling in. Meet fellow attendees, connect with experts, and start the conversation in a relaxed networking atmosphere.
DAY 1
Wednesday, June 2
9.00 am-5.30 pm: Main Session
Get the insights, ideas and inspiration you came for. The detailed program will be revealed at a later stage, but expect a mix of expert insights, product updates and real-world best practices from fellow users, and plenty of ideas to take back to your team.
7.00 – 11.00 pm: Evening Program
Take the conversation beyond the conference venue. We’re heading offsite for an exciting evening together: an opportunity to connect, share experiences and enjoy some time with the IUG community. Expect good conversations, new connections and a few memorable moments along the way.
DAY 2
Thursday, June 3
9.00 am-1.00 pm: Main Session
Get the insights, ideas and inspiration you came for. The detailed program will be revealed at a later stage, but expect a mix of expert insights, product updates and real-world best practices from fellow users, and plenty of ideas to take back to your team.
1.00 – 2.00 pm: Farewell Lunch
One last chance to connect before heading home. Wrap up the conference over lunch, catch up with new and familiar faces, and take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve discovered.
What to expect
Two days of ideas, insights and connections with plenty of opportunities to get hands-on, ask questions and see what’s next.
Get hands-on with Innovation Labs
Go beyond the presentation and get your hands on what’s coming next. In our Innovation Labs, you’ll explore future versions and new features before release, guided by Software AG experts. Test new functionality, put it through its paces and share your feedback directly with the people developing it.
*Innovation Lab topics will be announced at a later stage. You’ll then be able to choose the sessions that are most relevant to you.
Boost your skills with Product Training
Take your expertise to the next level with our free Product Training sessions. Learn from experienced Software AG experts, discover practical tips and best practices, and come away with knowledge you can put to work right away.
Innovation Lab topics will be announced at a later stage. You’ll then be able to choose the sessions that are most relevant to you.
Meet the experts
Got a tough question? Bring it with you. IUG gives you plenty of opportunities to connect directly with Software AG experts and executives, whether you want to dive into a technical topic, discuss your specific environment or explore what’s happening next.
Learn from real-world experiences
Expect a program built around real-world value. Hear how fellow users are putting our technology to work, get a closer look at upcoming products and features, and join live demos, panels and interactive sessions with attendees from around the world.
Grow your network
Some of the best IUG conversations happen outside the session room. Meet fellow users, experts and partners from around the world, exchange experiences, compare approaches and spark new ideas.
Then keep the conversation going over dinner and drinks at our evening event.
Confirma tu presencia
COLOGNE HIGHLIGHTS
See what Cologne has to offer
- Easy to get to: Cologne is at the heart of Europe, with excellent rail connections and two airports (Cologne Bonn and Dusseldorf) offering direct links to destinations across Europe and beyond.
- Easy to explore: With an efficient public transport network and a compact city center, getting around Cologne is simple whether you’re heading to the conference, exploring the city or meeting up with fellow attendees.
- A city built for connections: As one of Germany’s major business and media hubs, Cologne brings together international companies, technology, creative industries and a diverse community of people and ideas.
- Plenty to discover: From the iconic Cologne Cathedral and lively old town to the Rhine waterfront, local breweries and vibrant neighborhoods, Cologne offers plenty to experience once the sessions are over.
Justification letter
There’s no fee to participate in the IUG Conference, but we know attending an in-person event comes with additional costs, including travel and accommodation.
Need to make the case for attending? We’ve prepared a justification letter to help. Simply add the details that are relevant to you and include it with your travel request.
Our conference venue
El Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt puts you right in the middle of Cologne, making it easy to get to the conference and just as easy to step out and experience the city. With everything happening under one roof, it’s the perfect home base for three days of learning, networking and connecting with the IUG community.
Accommodation
You can use our conference rate in the conference hotel Dorint am Heumarkt.  Book early to save: first come, first served!  Or choose another nearby hotel from the selection provided below. But don’t wait too long, they sell out quickly.
★★★★
Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt
Our conference venue
Event rate: 191€ per night incl. breakfast
Need to stay longer? The booking link allows you to choose your preferred dates between May 31 and June 4. For additional nights outside this date range, please contact the hotel directly to adjust your reservation.
★★★★
Maritim Hotel Cologne
4 minute walk from conference venue
Price range: €€
Motel One am Neumarkt
7 minute walk from conference venue
Price range: €€
Frequently asked questions
Check out our list of frequently asked questions below. If you still have questions, reach out to iug@softwareag.com! We’re here to help.
Who should attend the International User Groups Conference?
Anyone who uses Adabas & Natural, CONNX or JOPAZ will find value in the conference. All customers and partners of Software AG products are welcome to attend.
How is the week structured?
As you can see in the “agenda” section, the main conference will start with a Welcome Reception for all attendees on the late afternoon of June 1.
Before the Welcome Reception on June 1, we offer two additional pre-conference programs that require separate registration: Product Training y Innvoation Labs.
The conference continues with our main user group track full day on June 2 and in the morning of June 3. We will end the conference with a farewell lunch on June 3.
How much does the conference cost?
The conference attendance is free of charge. If you travel to the event, you’re responsible for your transportation, accommodation and other travel costs.
Are we limited in the number of people who can attend?
Yes, we are holding a limited number of seats for the in-person event. So, register early and please be sure all your participants register so we can capture exact numbers.
Where is the event taking place?
The  IUG Conference 2027 will take place at the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt in Cologne, Germany.
The address of the hotel is as follows:
Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt
Pipinstraße 1
50667 Cologne
Telephone: +49 221 2806-0
Email: info.koeln-heumarkt(at)dorint.com
What if I need to change my plans?
We’re making the event as flexible as possible. If you’ve reserved a spot at the in-person event but are prevented from traveling, you can simply cancel it. No questions asked. For cancellation or modifications, please send an email to iug@softwareag.com.
What is the conference dress code?
Main conference: business casual. ​​​​Evening events: casual.
Do I need a visa to enter Germany?
Whether you need a visa to travel to Germany depends on what country you’re from.
Visit the German Immigration Service website for more information regarding your personal requirements for travelling to Germany.
For further detailed information on Germany visas, please visit www.germany-visa.org
I need an invitation letter for my visa. How can I get one?
Please send an email including your passport details to iug@softwareag.com.