Microsoft ignite is the world's largest tech conference in the world focused mainly on IT. It's a sold-out situation for Microsoft Ignite since 2017. It is rumored that this year might break last year's attendance records. A conference this huge and offers much more than expected, can a bit overwhelming too. If you are a newbie to Microsoft Ignite or if you feel like you might have got more out of the event in the past, then don't worry we are here to help you out. Over a couple of years, our engineering team has learned a lot from past events. Just like an insurance commercial, "We know a thing or two because we have seen a thing or two". Or 5 incredible tips for your best Ignite experience possible.
Schedule your session prior
MyIgnite website or MyIgnite app helps in creating and explore sessions. The Orange County Convention Center is a massive place, wise advice is to have a plan ready before the arrival and a plan B is also appreciated. This is because the sessions go on as first come, first serve basis, even if the session is scheduled. See to that you are scheduling two sessions per time slot as you don't have to be disappointed or wander around without a plan instead you can carry on with one session if the other one is still occupied. You might have scheduled a couple of sessions in a line if you think any of the session, in particular, is very important to you then you must try and get in as early as possible.
Comfortable shoe matters
When you are packing for the conference you must keep in mind that you will be on your feet throughout the day and trekking several miles between the sessions, keynotes, to and from meals and exhibition showcases. Your fancy footwear can rest at bay for a while. Wearing suitable and comfortable clothes will actually make you feel more peaceful and confident. To "break-in" a new pair of shoes Microsoft Ignite is not the right place.
"Hangout" between the sessions
If you are tired or if you could not make it to any sessions or you are overloaded with information, then check out the "Hang Out" room. Its first appearance was at Microsoft Ignite 2016 in Atlanta. It's a huge room filled with comfortable places to get some work done or to relax. Additionally, they do have giant screens throughout the room in which every session is live-streamed. If you are tired juggling between the session you can just grab some wireless headphones, sit back and relax as you can hop from one session to another without moving.
Remember to eat
Ignite can be hectic as well as draining. It is tempting to take up all the network and after-hours events until the wee hours of the day. Not many people have that kind of special stamina. You want to create many connections and the events are held for the same purpose, you need to utilize every bit of it. Which means you don't want to miss any super impactful sessions. This makes you rush around, trying to make it to your scheduled sessions in between this tight routine you might forget to eat. Not to worry there are plenty of drinks and food counters scattered around the place. So have a quick bite and stay hydrated. This will help you get more from the sessions.
Finally, don’t forget to socialize
Microsoft Ignite isn't just about technical stuff. And importantly you should not treat it like that either. Ignite is a great place to network with a lot of people who you may or may not know or people with similar interests as yours. So, don't hide yourself in your rooms after your sessions. Participate in evening activities and whenever you can make sure to visit the Expo floor. Offer to buy a drink for your favorite product owner. At times you can actually learn more over a beer than you could in a session.
Meet Cloud Assert at Ignite Event
Hopefully, with these tips, you should be ready for the Ignite experience. Book an appointment to meet cloud assert at ignite event 2019 for a real-time demo of our cloud solutions and experience first-hand how Cloud Assert can add value to your IT cloud processes. Don't forget to look for Cloud Assert booth #1909 where we would love to hear from you if these tips were helpful.