Oracle OpenWorld Unconference: Wow!
OK, so let's be honest: this is the last thing you'd expect from Oracle. Nevertheless, it's true; an unconference will be running in parallel to the official show agenda. (See the official OTN page for Oracle OpenWorld; and RSVP at upcoming!)
If this term is unfamiliar to you, an unconference is simply a crowd-driven event, in which the attendees create their own session agenda. This concept turns the old editorial model, in which a panel of "experts" determines what the audience's interests will be, on its head (where it is now spending most of its time).
What a perfect complement to Oracle OpenWorld! In addition to drinking the official conference Kool-Aid (which is why you pay a registration fee, isn't it?), you can also create and imbibe your own OpenWorld content cocktail. Quite a tasty combination!
The unconference will run on Monday Nov 12 through Wednesday Nov 14 from 2-6 pm, and on Thursday Nov 15 from 2-5 pm. If you wish to present on a topic that interests you, sign up at the Moscone West 3rd Floor Overlooks - but do it early (Sunday or Monday), because slots are limited. (Note that each day is devoted to a general category--Database, Middleware/Tools, Apps, Anything Goes--in order to ensure a nice diversity of topics.)
Then, just show up with your laptop at the appointed time and place (whiteboards, projectors, and screens will be provided) and start talking! Audience participation/interaction is encouraged. Needless to say, we'll be documenting the action via blog, audio, and video.
This is simply excellent news from the OTN perspective. In addition to throwing the traditional OTN Night party and offering the OTN Lounge as an official community meet-up place (T-shirts, software/content CDs, games, doughnuts, and energy drinks provided), we are simply thrilled that we can help bring you literally into the conference agenda as active participants.
