Insights from the Drupal AI Summit at FOST

We’ve just returned from Future of Software Technologies (FOST), a federated technology conference held at CNIT La Défense, Paris. Designed as a co‑located series of more than 25 independent, vendor‑neutral tech conferences with a shared pass, it attracted over 8,000 attendees and 400 speakers from around the world.

1xINTERNET’s role at the Drupal AI Summit

1xINTERNET led the organisation of the Drupal AI Summit, one of the event’s key conferences, where AI proved to be the hottest topic and sessions were among the most heavily oversubscribed. With just 4 weeks notice to arrange the event, we were absolutely delighted over 120 participants joined us.

Speakers from companies sponsoring and actively advancing strategically important aspects of Drupal AI presented on a wide range of topics, our team included.

AI search with Drupal’s no-code AI framework

Artem Dmitriiev explained how Drupal is well suited to AI integration and showed that, with the support of the community and the AI Initiative, the promises of low code and no-code delivery are becoming a practical reality rather than a marketing claim.

He outlined the distinctions between keyword and lexical search, and newer semantic and agentic approaches. He went on to demonstrate that thanks to advancements in Drupal AI, effective search can now be built with no code and minimal effort, and that AI support could be added using standard site building skills.

The presentation was focused on illustrating how complex capabilities can be explored without the need for technical expertise, therefore Drupal offers end customers freedom to safely experiment with AI search.

While out-of-the-box features serve as a starting point, Artem emphasised the value of a sound proof of concept rather than starting from scratch. The session gave decision makers confidence in Drupal’s potential for AI driven projects.

Download presentation slides

AI-driven search and S1x SIGNALS framework

Christoph Breidert’s session attracted the largest audience, as he addressed a key concern for many organisations: the rapid adoption of AI-driven search technologies and their implications for digital marketing strategies.

Traditional search engines and SEO tactics are evolving as AI-powered systems begin to prioritise contextual understanding, natural language queries, and personalised results. This shift means that content which previously ranked highly may no longer appear prominently, reducing visibility and potentially affecting traffic and engagement.

For marketers, this introduces both risk and opportunity. There is a need to reconsider content strategies, optimise for intent rather than keywords alone, and ensure that digital assets are structured and accessible for AI interpretation. 

At the same time, organisations that adapt effectively can leverage AI search to reach audiences in more relevant, nuanced ways, improving engagement and conversion. Those slow to respond may find their digital presence diminished as AI reshapes how users discover and interact with information online.

S1x SIGNALS framework for AIO and GEO

S1x SIGNALS is an easy to follow yet comprehensive framework designed to optimise and enhance digital processes through two core capabilities. The Artificial Intelligence Optimization (AIO) component focuses on improving performance and decision-making through AI-driven insights, while the Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) component ensures efficient and effective output generation, streamlining workflows and content production. Together, they provide an integrated solution for organisations seeking both intelligent analysis and optimised generation within a single framework.

Download presentation slides

The session concluded with a frenzy of interest and Christoph fielding many questions. We will be releasing a free to use site evaluation tool using out S1x SIGNALS framework in the new year. If you would like to receive an invite please sign up to our mailing list.

Between all the serious business of AI innovations we did of course take time to put our feet up and reflect on what has been a most extraordinary year for 1xINTERNET and the Drupal AI Initiative. We are already thinking about 2026 and planning to bring major Drupal AI events to a location close to you!