FAQs

What is CiviCRM?
CiviCRM is web-based, open source, Contact Relationship Management (CRM) software geared toward meeting the needs of voluntary sector and third-sector organisations. It is designed for charities and community groups.

What is the CiviCon London conference?
CiviCon London is the UK's annual meeting of CiviCRM users, implementers and developers to share knowledge, experience and to discuss the future of the project. This year's conference is designed with new users at the heart of it so there is something for everyone.

Is CiviCon right for me?
We welcome all, from people interested in learning more about CiviCRM to people who have been using it for years! The conference program is organised into audience-oriented tracks, providing you flexibility and control over your experience. From case studies and "how to" sessions, to in-depth code review, the sessions will cover a diverse array of topics, subjects and representative organisations.

I don't know much about CiviCRM, will it work for my organisation? 
The conference program takes account of those who are reviewing CiviCRM/those who want to see if CiviCRM is right for their organisation. Day 1 of the conference starts with an introduction session for CiviCRM beginners followed by an introduction to CiviCRM track which continues through the first day.
If you are in this situation you may decide to purchase the special Day 1 only conference ticket which is available at a discounted price of £160. If you are just exploring CiviCRM this might be right for you - but you'll miss out on all the fun of Day 2!  

I have questions about CiviCRM, will there be an opportunity to get answers?
There will be a help desk open at various times throughout the conference to provide one-on-one consulting advice as well as many opportunities to network with others in the CiviCRM community.

I am new to CiviCRM and not very technical, will I be overwhelmed?
The conference schedule includes many beginner level workshops. While there are many technical workshops there will also be plenty for those new to CiviCRM. Also, there is a two day User and Administrator training course on October the 6th and 7th 2015 for those who want to get a head start on learning CiviCRM.

I am a consultant who has implemented CiviCRM for some time, what will I get out of CiviCon?
The CiviCon program will have workshops on various topics regarding CiviCRM including various ways the software has been implemented, extended and what is new in future versions. CiviCon is a unique opportunity to see how CiviCRM has been used in many situations and share your experiences with other members of the community.

I am a developer working with CiviCRM and have ideas about extending the software, will I have an opportunity to discuss these with experts?
The program will include sessions regarding developing for CiviCRM as well as networking opportunities with other CiviCRM developers. There is also a two day Developer Training course being held on October the 6th and 7th 2015 geared towards those who want to customize CiviCRM, create Extensions, or submit improvements to the core. You could continue the conversation and start developing your ideas at the Sprint.

What is the CiviCon schedule like, will I have time to experience London?
The two day conference has sessions running from 9:30am - 4:30pm. There is also an after party at the end of the first day.

I am not an athlete, will I manage the Sprint?
Relax! You don't need to run, although we will go for a few walks in the fabulous countryside around Edale if you choose.  As we interact with CiviCRM, we often have ideas to enhance it but we don't get round to doing anything about them, so the "sprint" is a short concentrated burst of activity to make those improvements.  That might be a new feature, or squashing bugs or improving the documentation.  Some people come with a particular task in mind, others are happy to help as needed.  You don't need to be a developer to contribute.

How can I keep up to date on CiviCon announcements?
As the program and schedule is updated the website will be updated. Please visit this website regularly. On twitter you can follow the hashtag #CiviCon to see what people are saying about CiviCon. If you haven't yet done so, sign up for the CiviCRM newsletter on https://civicrm.org.