MMS 2008 - Monday
Summary: activities got a little more 'official', and the community events were great.
Now that we're all settled, I had a few private meetings. All were very constructive and gave good food for thought.
The freshman orientation was good and gave a chance to say Hi to some newbies (which are something like 60% or 70% of the attendees). Welcoming new members is key to keeping the community strong, so we should all make an effort to say Hi to them. Apparently Denmark has about 220 attendees alone (with wonderful red jackets). My home country of Canada had about 200. I believe I heard that Sweden had even more than Denmark.
The welcome reception was the highlight of the day, other than there were so many great conversations that there was no time for swag or food. And given the number of attendees I may not find any good swag this year. Fortunately I have some friends who may take mercy on me...
The 1/4 mile lineup to rush for myITforum party buttons is the best evidence that all other vendors should pay some kind of commission to myITforum for bringing people into the Exposition area.
And breakfast was basic, lunch was light but good, and dinner was wonderful - a fine Italian meal. Intersting vegetables, followed by fine clams and spaghetti-like noodles that worked very well with the wine. Then finished with a delicate quale. Conferences are hard work, but there are rewards...