So here I am, back from my nearly week long visit to Vancouver, BC. There were so many great things that happened during the trip that I don't know where to begin. However, I do feel the best way to begin is by thanking everyone involved. It was my first web conference and I was amazed at how smooth everything was. So a HUGE thank you to
John Allsopp, Maxine Sherrin,
Derek Featherstone, and
Dave Shea.
Rather then take you through a day-by-day breakdown, I'll just point you in the direction of the
Web Directions North website. They've been posting notes from the presentations, along with the option of downloading presentations, and will soon be posting the podcast. You can also venture to
Flickr and browse the near one thousand photos that have been tagged.
A few highlights:
- Molly Holzschlag had a presentation focused on 'crimes against web standards' where she showed her worst code crimes. The audience were then given the chance to share some of their code crimes and were rewarded with free books.
- Jared Spool talked about user interface and the irony that when you do a great job, no one notices. He also spoke about experience design and how products that people are passionate about (iPod, Netflix) ultimately do better than products that may be technically better (Blockbuster, Sansa) but don't evoke the same emotion. Jared also amused us with a few magic tricks and a great sense of humor.
- Dave Shea and Veerle Pieters (who coincidentally has the best looking blog I've ever seen) gave a wonderful presentation on the design process. Everything from work space and lighting to finding inspiration to dealing with difficult clients. Geared mainly towards those who freelance but with elements that we can all learn from.
And as if two days of conferencing wasn't enough, there were parties sponsored by
Adobe and
Media Temple, as well as the optional trip to
Whistler sponsored by
Microsoft. Let me tell you, watching a bunch of web geeks attempt to be
cool snow bunnies was quite amusing. I'm the one on the far left, in case you're wondering.
So, there you have it. If you're considering going to a conference, do it! It's a great way to network, meet some amazing people, and (hopefully) leave with new ideas, new tactics, and a renewed energy towards web design. I'm already looking forward to next year!