In fast-paced tech environments, true innovation often struggles to coexist with the demands of stable, scalable core systems. Enter the Labs Team — a focused, flexible unit designed to experiment, explore, and build without the usual constraints. In this talk, we’ll explore how labs teams can drive meaningful innovation, accelerate productivity, safely test new technologies, and even embrace failure as a strategy. Whether you’re part of a startup or an enterprise, you'll learn how to structure, support, and leverage a labs team to become a true engine of progress in your organisation.

Join us for an irreverent exploration of software development's favorite false economy. We'll dive into the seductive world of "ship now, test never" and trace how those passionate early-stage shortcuts transform into toxic long-term relationships with your codebase.

Through battle scars and war stories, you'll discover why "we'll add tests when things calm down" belongs in the same fantasy realm as "I'll start going to the gym next Monday."

Learn practical strategies for integrating testing into your workflow without sacrificing velocity, protecting both your production environment and your team's sanity.

Perfect for engineering teams navigating the delicate balance between speed and sustainability—because nothing kills momentum quite like rebuilding the same features over and over again.

What can tech teams learn from a theme park?

Disney is known for crafting magical experiences: not just in its parks but also in its approach to design, storytelling, and creating spaces where people feel valued and inspired.

In this talk, we'll explore what we can learn from Disney's park design and how we can apply the same principles to engineering culture to create unforgettable experiences.

Let’s find out!