As if going to one of the largest-attended conferences featuring the planet's premier digital marketing ecosystem wasn't already borderline-overwhelming enough to a first-time attendee, it's VEGAS. What should a first-time Adobe Summit attendee know?
Lucky for you, we've been to Summit once or twice before (or in some cases 7 times), and we are here to answer as many possible, "what if's", as we can. There's so much to talk about, you want to get max-value out of this most-epic of kick-offs for the digital year, but let's start simple.
The Shoelace Express
Walking: YOU'RE GOING TO DO A LOT OF IT.
As any Adobe Summit attendee will tell you, your Fitbit step count is about to go through the roof. The distance is dependent on where your hotel accommodations are in relationship to the conference, but the result is always the same: a LOT OF STEPS. There are long walks between sessions, keynote speakers and meals, and a considerable bit as well exploring the different vendor booths or stopping by the Adobe Advocacy pavilion to speak with Champions and Adobe Enthusiasts. There are many places to relax and take a break, so kick your feet up from time to time. Because I do love a level of statistical reference, my step count last year during summit Monday 12K steps, Tuesday 18K steps, Wednesday 20K steps, Thursday 19K steps.
Some tips:
- Wear Comfortable shoes.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Take a break at one of the many locations inside the main pavilion in between sessions.
- Wool or moisture wicking socks
- Consider a pair of rollerblades if you are nimble and not self-conscious.
The Adobe Summit Conference Itself
Summit can be a marathon that feels like a sprint. To slow things down for the first-time goer, let's break down some of the things that can help reduce stress and maximize the value of your experience.
Check in as early as possible to get your Summit pass. If you wait until the day of, there will be a line, especially when there's a Summit gift that requires "trying on" like last year's epic hoodie. Try to reduce delays by being proactive. Get that pass after you are settled into your hotel accommodations on Sunday, if at all possible.
One of the other reasons to get your pass as soon as you are able to, is that, you can then do a little bit of mental mapping from your hotel to the Venetian & plan where you need to go for the next few days, and to have an understanding of how long it will take you in transit each day.
Start each day off with a nutritious, delicious breakfast. Adobe Summit will not leave you wanting for sustenance, and making sure to have enough fuel in the tank to make it from Breakfast to Lunch is key. Stave off any brain fog by getting up and heading down with enough time to spare before your first session.
Tips, tricks, checklist?
- Get your Summit Pass as soon as you have time. Do not wait until the first day, there will be a line. Use this opportunity to also get your Swag gift before sizes, or options are unavailable.
- Wear comfy shoes that won't make your experience while at Summit an unneeded stressor.
- Bring a bag, at least large enough for a bottle of water and a snack, but also for conference swag! This will help keep you from leaving a session or conversation you might be in if you are starting to wear down.
- Take notes, photos (respectfully), audio record, sessions, keynote speakers to save for future reference and record keeping.
- Network! This is a massive, massive conference. There are thousands of people, if you need help networking find me, it's what I do, I'll be happy to be your guide and Social Integration Assistant, (pending copyright).
- Take a Certification of your discipline or try something completely new, don't waste the opportunity to put some well earned credibility on your resume.
- Of course, Adobe has a wonderful FAQ page that I hope you will take the time to review before the event. Safe Travels to all attending, it's going to be Fantastic!
To Summit Up
Adobe Summit is going to be an eye opener for anyone attending for the very first time, that's to be expected. Preparing will undoubtedly make it a much more enjoyable and valuable experience, so please do review the FAQ's from Adobe and the tips and tricks included in this blog. While at the conference, stop and say hi if you see me wandering the expo floor or if I'm joining a session you are in. Arbory Digital has deep AEM insight and proven itself as a leader in helping client's navigate their journey towards an optimized site. Whether that is On-Prem, AEMaaCS, or Edge Delivery Services, we do it all, to the highest degree of customer satisfaction achievable.
About the Author
Justin Ranly
Director - Sales & Partnerships
Like what you heard? Have questions about what’s right for you? We’d love to talk! Contact Us