CONF2.0 represents a new era in learning
Let's face it -- we all struggle to ensure that the money we pay to attend two and three day conferences, those traditional events, is bang for their buck.

Yet, these represent one of the few ways in which we can engage in learning, development and benchmarking. One of a few avenues open to us to meet regularly with fellow practitioners.

You want to engage in meaningful conversation. And do real work, make real progress in the projects you manage. You want to be able to bridge the gap between what's discussed in the conference room and what you can take back, literally, to your office. You don't want a stack of slides that sit on your shelf, never to be opened again.


Run it by me again...
Well, this is Conf2.0. Not so much about being clever or innovative in how we gather as industry practitioners but this IS a backlash against the traditional way in which we conference.

The concept of Conf2.0 is simple. It's centred on learning, not teaching. We want to work off the ideas and experiences of the collective. We want to create an environment where sharing and exchange is promoted, and positively encouraged. Not just one speaker to the audience but peer to peer. It's about creating real two-way dialogue. Not the presentation of one truth, but many.

Bounce ideas. Talk. Share. Collaborate. Learn. Take it back. Apply. Modify. Execute. Talk about it some more.

And how does it work exactly?
Let's start by what it won't be.

	You won't be on your blackberry checking your emails.
	You won't be running out of the room because you're bored.
	You won't leave early for your meeting.
	It won't be death by powerpoint.
	You won't be cornered into only the one view.
However.....
	You will see first hand how action learning works. Three steps. First, assess the problem or situation. Second, figure out how to improve it or solve the problem. Third, review and learn.
	You will discuss in groups, with both facilitator or speaker and your peers, YOUR issues. And find solutions. Together. These groups will be supported by facilitators who can bring together disparate groups, interests and people for a common goal.
	You will watch an insightful interview
	There will be regular polls and temperature checks to make sure we are on YOUR track
	You will role-play
	You will brainstorm and generate new ideas and perspectives

And where can I see Conf 2.0 in action?
The first one was held in Kuala Lumpur at the 3C Contact Centre Leadership Summit in February 2009. .

Upcoming Conf 2.0 events

PRACTICAL EA INSIGHTS + PRACTICES THE ENTERPRISE ARCHITECTURE FORUM '09 12 - 13 NOVEMBER 2009 PARK ROYAL HOTEL SINGAPORE	21ST CENTURY CMO SUMMIT '09 24 - 25 NOVEMBER 2009 PARK ROYAL HOTEL SINGAPORE

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