Technology evangelist

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A technology evangelist (literal translation: " technology preacher" or "technology missionary") is someone who tries to get others excited about a technology .

To achieve this, the “Technology Evangelist” participates actively as a contact and discussion partner in forums, conferences or user meetings (e.g. user group meetings, bar camps ). Specialist lectures, articles in relevant media, the creation of podcasts , webcasts or blogs as well as the operation of specialist communities and the provision of examples are typical activities.

General

The title " Evangelist " is explained by the meaning of the Greek root word " Gospel ", which can be translated as "the good news" and originally comes from the Christian theological parlance. “Technology Evangelists” are people who on the one hand are enthusiastic themselves and on the other hand have the ability to inspire other people. Although some companies employ professional technology evangelists, there are also those who work exclusively privately and out of personal conviction.

In the commercial environment, the role can be understood as technical marketing with a certain proximity to training and presales .

Well-known examples

Apple hired Mike Boich, the first officially designated "Evangelist" employee. Another former Apple employee, Guy Kawasaki , is often referred to as the first “Technology Evangelist”. Prominent current representatives of this role are Vinton G. Cerf ( Google ), Robert Scoble (formerly Microsoft ), Jeff Barr ( amazon.com ), Frank B. Fischer (formerly Microsoft, now Deutsche Telekom ) and Johann "JJ" Jungwirth (formerly Apple , since 2015 CDO at Volkswagen ).

literature

  • Guy Kawasaki: Selling the dream. The art of turning customers into missionaries. MVG 2001 ISBN 3-478-81214-3
  • Geoffrey A. Moore: Crossing the chasm . B&T, ISBN 0-06-051712-3
  • Ben McConnell, Jackie Huba: Creating Customer Evangelists . Kaplan Business, 2002, ISBN 0-7931-5561-4