I’ve identified a serious defect in going to conferences like OSCON, and it’s this: You spend two weeks pre-connecting with people you only get to see at conferences, making plans to have detailed discussions and/or generally enjoying the company of said people who you see only rarely. The actual week of the show, you only get to have rushed conversations, and then vow to catch up later. Well, the next week after the conference is too busy and then things get pushed aside… and eventually, you’re back in the pre-confernence mode planning to talk to people.
OK, I’m exaggerating, but by just a little. I enjoyed being at OSCON last week, and enjoyed having the chance to catch up with many of the people who I only see every few months — but never really had the time to hunker down and have a good conversation that wasn’t rushed.
Still — it was good to see everybody. I hear the actual conference was great — I didn’t actually get to attend any sessions where I wasn’t speaking or moderating, but I heard great things, and the exhibit floor had some fun stuff. The people, however, are what make OSCON a great show — and this year’s was no exception.
But did you dye your hair green?