GDG Surrey Build With AI at British Columbia Institute of Technology

April 24, 2024 by Laurence Svekis

Laurence Svekis at “Build with AI” GDG Surrey Event

Harnessing the Power of Google Apps Script

Recently, the “Build with AI” event hosted by Google Developer Groups (GDG) Surrey at the British Columbia Institute of Technology brought together developers and AI enthusiasts to delve into the latest in Generative AI technologies and applications. Among the distinguished speakers was Laurence Svekis, a renowned educator and developer, who led a captivating session on Google Apps Script.

Google Apps Script: A Tool for Everyone

Laurence Svekis showcased the versatility and power of Google Apps Script, a cloud-based scripting language built on JavaScript that allows for the automation and customization of workflows across Google Workspace applications. His presentation, “Power Up with Google Apps Script,” covered the basics to advanced applications.

Key Takeaways from the Presentation

Automation and Efficiency: Svekis demonstrated how Google Apps Script can automate tasks such as data entry, report generation, and email notifications, which are essential for increasing productivity in any business setting.
Customization and Integration: The presentation highlighted how users could create custom menus, add-ons, and even their own web applications to enhance the functionality of Google Workspace tools. This customization extends to integrating various Google services and external APIs to create a seamless workflow.
Accessibility and Collaboration: Google Apps Script promotes collaboration by allowing users to access scripts from anywhere and share them with colleagues, fostering a cooperative environment for project development.

Event Highlights

Venue and Logistics: The event took place in Building SW1, rooms 1205 and 2009 at BCIT’s Burnaby Campus, providing a spacious setting for workshops and networking.
Community and Learning: “Build with AI” was not just about lectures but also interactive sessions where participants engaged directly with experts like Svekis to discuss practical applications of AI in real-world scenarios.
Goals and Vision: The event aimed at advancing skills, fostering innovation, and expanding professional networks, which was evident through the enthusiastic participation of attendees from various tech backgrounds.

Conclusion

Laurence Svekis’ presentation at the “Build with AI” event was a testament to the potential of Google Apps Script to revolutionize the way we handle tasks within Google Workspace. It provided attendees with the tools and knowledge to start implementing these solutions in their own projects and workplaces. As AI continues to evolve, events like these are crucial for staying updated on the latest technologies and networking with like-minded professionals.