As a general rule, there are bad conferences and there are ... bad conferences. Bizarre dance rituals between narcissists and sycophants. A sea of faces but no real community, no substantive human dialogue connection. No daring originality.
So, I would not call the Pacific Northwest BI Summit a conference. Because it's the opposite of a conference. Maybe it is an UnConference. First, it's small; just 15-20 people at the lovely Weasku Inn (www.weasku.com). Second, it's completely about deep, candid, impromptu conversations (dia-logue not mono-logue) with thoughtful peers, the sort of thing that simultaneously reinforces the best of your ideas and shores up the weakest. Third, Scott Humphrey (www.strategic-pr.com ) guards the gate, making sure every detail and every new attendee sustains the experience we all prize.
As always, this year included vibrant discussions led by Jill Dyche (www.baseline-consulting.com), Claudia Imhoff (www.intelsols.com), William McKnight (www.luciditycg.com), and Colin White (www.bi-research.com). The B-EYE Network was there to capture some of the best bits on podcasts (www.b-eye-network.com). And, a coterie of extraordinary minds created a symphony of valuable perspectives and ideas.
Oh, and we had a lot of fun, too. Thanks to everyone involved for renewing the mental momentum. I hope it carries us all until next year's reunion.
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