Case Studies - Guidewire Software
Project and event management
Guidewire Software, based in San Mateo, California, is cloud software for the insurance industry. When it became obvious that the pandemic was going to eliminate in person meetings, Guidewire needed to pivot to keep their planned annual user conference into a virtual event, Guidewire Connections. To do so, I was asked to work with SMEs and select customers to arrange remote on camera interviews which involved a never before used technology for this event. In order for the on camera interviews to happen, each remote customer and SME needed to be scheduled according to timezone and coordinated with the remote camera operators recording each session, which would then be edited and a transcript created. Working with several incredibly supportive companies, I contracted them to send out a package which included an iPhone with the software installed, a lavalier mic and a special lighting setup. Participants were based in the US, Europe, Scandinavia, UK and New Zealand so logistics played a key part to make sure equipment was tested, shipped and arrived in time and free return shipments were set up.
Finding solutions
When it came time for the first test, it became apparent that the recording software did not work seamlessly with Zoom which was the meeting software needed. I was able to provide a solution to that as well as setting up a quick start guide I created after setting up and trying the equipment at home. This included a visual guide to setting up the iPhone and lighting equipment along with the required voltage check. The recordings went smoothly from then on and regardless of their location or language, the participants were able to faultlessly create their own interviews. The conference was held as planned as a virtual conference and was a success!