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Discussion on: What would your dream tech conference look like?

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Shannon Crabill

To answer my own question, here is what I'd like my ideal tech conference to look like

  • One track. — Personally, I can get overwhelmed when there are multiple tracks/multiple rooms where I have to pick attending one session over another.
  • Affordable. — I'd like to see a tech conference in the mid-west so that it's not drastically far from people who live on either coast. Plus, staying in a hotel or AirBnB may be cheaper compared to NYC or SFO. This can also mean pricing at cost or free is possible.
  • Designated time to chat with speakers. — Litmus Live usually has a "meet the speaker" part of the program where they can ask questions without missing out on talks.
  • Livestream and/or record sessions. — Write the Docs wins at this. By dinner time, my talk from before lunch was already on their Youtube channel!
  • Quiet rooms. — For speakers and attendees. Conferences can be overwhelming.
  • Food. — Obvs. I've yet to attend a conference that got this wrong, but an abundance of snacks, meals (keeping dietary restrictions in mind) and beverages is important. Ingredient labels are a quick win.
  • Sustainable. — There are debates on if conference swag is ok or just a waste of resources. I think there are opportunities for sponsors to provide swag that is meaningful while still promoting their business or cause. The coffee bar and branded thermos provided by Flatiron School at Codeland is a good example. Other sustainable ideas include recyclable flatware and dishes and donating leftover food to local food banks if appropriate.

I'm sure I'll add more to this given my unlimited budget :)