In summer 2008, professionals from a wide array of industries will experience the paramount event of the year for the GIS user community. New and advanced Esri software users from more than 120 countries will meet August 4–8 to grow and share their knowledge at the 28th Annual Esri International User Conference (Esri UC) held at the San Diego Convention Center in California. Attendees will gain new skills, discover new applications, and explore how to fully leverage GIS technology in their organizations and communities.

"The User Conference is when GIS users and Esri staff come together for some aspect of learning, teaching, and problem solving," says Jack Dangermond, Esri president. "This conference represents the essence of community and purpose in building innovative solutions for our world's industries and societies."

"If you attend only one conference the entire year, this is a must," says recurring attendee Dale Giles, GIS manager for the City of Claremont, New Hampshire. "You will get more out of the User Conference than any 10 conferences combined. The technical sessions are well presented and thought out. The people you meet and network with are some of the best acquaintances you will make; they are rich with ideas and knowledge. Most of us will never have an opportunity (like the Exhibit Hall) to work with this many industry vendors all under one roof—ever."

A Place for Passionate Users

The Esri UC provides participants with vital skills for solving all types of problems. Technicians and developers, managers and strategists, or anyone who has a challenge to overcome or a process to perfect will come away with new ideas for identifying, analyzing, and addressing their unique issues. The conference offers a spectrum of sessions and activities, creating a valuable forum for insight, support, and networking.

ArcGIS 9.3 and Beyond

Demonstrations and workshops will focus on techniques for using ArcGIS 9.3. Also, demonstrations during the Esri Showcase will feature ArcGIS 9.3 being used in production operations.

Last year's popular new track—the GIS and Industry Focus sessions—will be offered again. These sessions are geared toward those who are new to GIS, interested in learning new trends, or wanting to review the GIS basics. Helpful user presentations on an array of subjects will once more share real-world GIS experiences. And another yearly highlight, the series of sessions entitled The Road Ahead, will discuss software developments on the horizon at Esri.

Great Expectations for Maps and Exhibits

Now accepting digital map entries, the Map Gallery will be as alluring as ever with a diverse collection of map projects, posters, products, and ventures illustrating the global impact of GIS. In addition, special displays are expected from North American zoos, aquariums, and botanical gardens; the National Geographic Society; the Department of the Interior; and conservation organizations.

Approximately 300 Esri business partners will participate in the 2008 Exhibit Pavilion, where attendees can learn about the latest platforms, services, and data, seeing demonstrations and discussing solutions.

Activities to Pencil In

The opening day Plenary Session will provide a strong foundation of vision and energy for the conference week. Jack Dangermond's personal and enlightening presentation will provide a view of the future as he shares his vision for GIS. Attendees will also want to make time for the Thursday Night Celebration, when they can find old friends, make new acquaintances, and bring their families along for a final night of conference festivities.

The 2008 Esri Education User Conference (EdUC) and Survey & Engineering GIS Summit will also be held in San Diego during the Esri UC. The EdUC is for educators and administrators to explore the benefits of geographic learning across disciplines. The summit is dedicated to helping surveyors and engineers build opportunities in business and the field using GIS.

More Information

This conference is for all Esri GIS users, regardless of experience. For more information about the Esri UC, visit www.esri.com/uc; call 909-793-2853, ext. 1-1363; or e-mail ucregis@esri.com.