Highlights from the second annual Drupal@Europa Web Platform Conference

On 15 October 2024, the House of European History in Brussels hosted the second edition of the annual Drupal@Europa Web Platform Conference, organised by DIGIT.B.1 Europa IT team. It gathered a total of 90 participants including stakeholders, IT experts and members of the Drupal Community of Practice of all over the EUIBAs. The conference proved to be a perfect setting to exchange best practices, showcase innovative solutions and reinforce collaboration in the Europa Web domain. 

This conference offered a comprehensive programme of keynote presentations and case studies. Participants also enjoyed the networking opportunities including museum tours and informal exchanges during the lunch break and the cocktail reception. 

Key takeaways: 

1. Modernising the House of European History website 

Modernising the House of European History website facilitates public access to Europe’s shared past through virtual tours, an expanded collection, and educational resources. With a refreshed design, improved navigation, and enhanced security, the new platform invites visitors worldwide to explore Europe’s journey toward unity.   

2. EMA transition to Drupal 10 & revamp 

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has successfully launched its revamped EMA public website on Drupal 10, improving user experience, design, and accessibility. This update follows the platform’s vital role during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing crucial vaccine safety information. Key features include enhanced search tools, streamlined navigation, and timely updates, ensuring that stakeholders can easily access the latest regulatory information. The collaborative effort behind this transition underscores EMA’s commitment to transparency and engagement.  

3. Lessons learnt from managing the Education for Climate community over four years 

The Education Climate Community Platform which takes part of the European Commission’s Communities of Practice (CoPs), has spent four years fostering collective action on climate challenges. By connecting educators, students and stakeholders across Europe, it drives shared learning and innovation for the green transition. Key lessons highlight the importance of a co-created vision, visible leadership, and inclusivity to ensure sustainability and impact.  

4. Knowledge4Policy 

The Knowledge4Policy Platform, led by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, empowers  policymakers with evidence-based insights to tackle Europe’s most pressing challenges. By connecting scientists, policymakers, and knowledge brokers, K4P fosters collaboration and delivers high-quality, tailored knowledge to inform decision-making. Key features include AI-powered tools for efficient knowledge access, a comprehensive knowledge infrastructure, and collaborative communities that co-create policy solutions.  

5. Accessibility: lessons learned in EAC 

The European Commission's DG EAC is working to enhance its digital accessibility, focusing on the needs of visually impaired users. Through hands-on testing, thoughtful design, and user feedback, the Digital Services Team has improved the user experience, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards and the effective use of assistive technologies. Key changes include simplifying design and code, improving faceted search functionality, and fostering collaboration across teams. These efforts reflect the Commission’s commitment to inclusive digital services.  

6. Creating for and with the target audience: EU Children’s Participation Platform 

The European Commission is launching the EU Children’s Participation Platform to give young people a voice in decision-making across Europe. Led by DG JUST in partnership with organisations like Save the Children and SOS Children’s Villages, the platform brings together over 1,000 children from 24 EU Member States to shape policies through assemblies, advisory boards, and co-creation teams. With interactive features, vibrant design, and multilingual content, the platform ensures children’s experiences are at its core. The journey continues with an expanded version launched in June 2024. 

7. Accessibility Testing: Digital inclusion with accessibility cloud 

In a world where technology shapes how we connect, the European Commission emphasises digital accessibility as key to inclusivity. With platforms like Accessibility Cloud, businesses can ensure compliance with global standards like WCAG 2.1 and EN 301 549. Accessibility Cloud offers automated testing, manual support, and continuous monitoring to help organisations make their digital content accessible to everyone. By integrating accessibility into every step, we can build a more inclusive, innovative digital Europa Web Presence.  

8. Virtual AI Assistant PoC & Europa Web Platform 

DIGIT.B1 introduces the Virtual AI Assistant PoC, a new PoC on the Europa Web Platform, combining advanced AI with user-focused digital tools. Designed with features like an interactive chat, source-based results, and modern UX, the Assistant will support content managers and enhance citizens engagement. It’s a step forward in the EUs mission for transparency, inclusivity and digital innovation.  

9. Collabora & BigBlueButton Pilot project 

The integration of BigBlueButton and Collabora Online within Drupal represents a significant step towards achieving seamless and efficient collaboration in digital ecosystems. This pilot project supports the European Union’s commitment to fostering digital transformation, inclusivity, and secure communication solutions tailored to diverse user needs. 

If you are interested in delving into each of the topics presented during the second annual Drupal@Europa Web Platform Conference, don’t miss the chance by reading the whole newsletter. Stay tuned for our next edition in 2025, the date will be announced soon. Don’t forget to check our Drupal CoP website, take part in our Teams community and to follow us on LinkedIn.