Autodesk University 2016

November 15^{th –} 17^th

There is no better way to connect with your peers across the world than attending a conference like Autodesk University. It’s a valuable chance to talk with people about your circumstances face-to-face. With attendance of over 10,000 users, you have an opportunity to meet up with people who may have already solved your dilemma – or at least understand it like you do. After the conference ends, you’ll walk away with some insight to the question “Are we doing the best we can?”

I’m a 25-year veteran of large user groups like this one, and I still find them very useful. It’s true that they are costly in terms of time and money invested; however, with the right attitude and an agenda in hand, you will reap plenty of rewards. The key is to do your homework prior to attending.

Your company has invested a lot in your software, and attending a conference provides valuable market insights into where your industry and its technology are going. There are thousands of classes, roundtables, and industry-specific events running, not to mention all the main stage presentations. In addition to all the above, there are always vendors attending to show off solutions designed for the technology or products you are most likely utilizing. Walking the floor and uncovering technology you did not know existed is a valuable investment of its own.

So how can you make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip?

Make and document a plan

It’s going to be a fast-paced event and each day is full from breakfast to late evening. Make a schedule and have a checklist – it’s easy to get sidetracked. Also take an hour or so off, away from the event, each day to recharge.

It’s a company event

Have meetings before you leave and again after you get back. What did everyone learn? What were the most valuable sessions? Give attendees a chance to share lessons learned with their team members who didn’t get to attend.

Have the checklist with you

Make sure you are achieving all you set out to do and track your progress.

Document

Take a lot of notes and pictures, and don’t be afraid of networking and exchanging information, even if you think you’ll remember it later. Don’t be the guy that gets home and says “I wish I had asked for a business card!”

Follow up after you get home

Develop a professional relationship with the people you met. Connect via email, LinkedIn, and stay connected.

If done right, you and your company will truly benefit from the investment; it’s an opportunity you can’t afford to pass up.

Oh, and one more thing…

Come see Tata Technologies at Autodesk University!

We’ll be at Booth #1644 with product experts, i GET IT online training, and lots of goodies. If you’re attending the conference, stop by and say hello. And if you haven’t registered yet, we have a Halloween treat for you: through October 31st you can register here and put in our special discount code – 300AU16REFAT – to attend at a discounted rate of $1,875!