Summary
The session, led by Steve Portico, opens the conference on the theme of researchers thriving in organizations. It provides essential housekeeping details about scheduling, including ample breaks between sessions and timezone adjustments on Rosenfeld Media's platform. Attendees are encouraged to engage not only with the main program but also with 12 high-quality optional sponsor sessions hosted by companies like Compass, Salesforce, Enjoy HQ, User Interviews, Dovetail, and Fable. The speaker emphasizes the importance of joining the conference Slack channels, including #ARgeneral for session discussions, #ARhelp for technical support, and private cohort channels for more intimate post-session conversations. Over 140 participants are grouped into 12 cohorts to deepen their learning experience. A dedicated note-taking artist relieves attendees from having to take notes themselves. Despite the virtual setting, the community's code of conduct ensuring respect and safety is underscored, with clear steps to seek help if needed. The talk sets expectations and encourages active, respectful participation throughout the event.
Key Insights
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Steve Portico introduces the conference theme of helping researchers thrive in organizations.
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Conference sessions include long breaks to help participants absorb content.
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Time zone conversion is available on the Rosenfeld Media website to aid global attendees.
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Sponsor sessions are optional, complementary, and have no scheduling conflicts with the main program.
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Major sponsors include Compass and Salesforce, with others like Enjoy HQ and User Interviews providing additional valuable content.
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Slack is the primary communication platform, with channels for general discussion, technical support, and private cohort groups.
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Cohorts of about 12 groups with 140+ participants enable peer discussion and reflection after each session.
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A professional note taker captures session insights to free attendees from manual note-taking.
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The event enforces a strict code of conduct, fostering a respectful, safe virtual environment.
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The organizers emphasize active engagement through Slack and the swag bag offers to enhance the participant experience.
Notable Quotes
"Today’s theme lead around researchers thriving in the organization is led by Steve Portico."
"We have lots and lots of breaks over the next couple of days so you can take in everything our incredible speakers have given to us."
"You can change the time zone on Rosenfeld Media’s website so the programming reflects your local time."
"Sponsor sessions have no overlap with main sessions and are free of sales pitches."
"Slack is where the party is at for convening with attendees and speakers alike."
"If you have any technical or support issues, please use hashtag AR help, our whole support team is at your disposal."
"We have 12 cohorts with over 140 people going through the conference together for small group discussions."
"No need to take notes, we have an incredible stats notes artist capturing all the presentations."
"Even though we are virtual, our community code of conduct absolutely applies."
"Please be respectful and kind, and use the procedures for getting help if you feel unsafe or something inappropriate occurs."
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