Last week I attended UKNOF 34, the first time I had attended an event organised by the UK Network Operators’ Forum. As suggested by the name, the talks were generally aimed at the network infrastructure level (i.e. routers, IP, telecomms equipment). Most of my work involves userland software, but I always find it useful to keep an eye on developments lower down the stack as poorly configured network infrastructure can have a significant impact on any web applications I develop.
Several aspects which impressed me and I’d like to copy for future events include:
- First-time delegates had a different colour for their lanyard, and were offered the opportunity to be introduced to any speakers or other delegates by the conference staff.
- Thirty minute talk slots meant that speakers generally got straight to the point. The short slots also meant that if you didn’t like the talk, you weren’t stuck listening for a long time.
- The level of sponsorship meant that the conference was free to attend.
The event was also a chance to catch up with some technical people who I hadn’t seen for a while.
Overall, UKNOF 34 was well worth attending. I probably won’t make the trip to Glasgow or London for the next two events, but I’ll definitely go to the next one in Manchester.