"There's something for everyone and anyone in the world of geographic information systems," says Jane Schafer-Kramer, GIS analyst, California Department of Water Resources. "This is the most value-packed conference I have ever attended. The entire event package was an experience I'll never forget."

This summer, from July 13 through 17, thousands of professionals from across the globe will travel to the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California, for the highly anticipated 29th annual Esri International User Conference (Esri UC).

"When we first started this event, we were aiming for a gathering that did just that: gather our users and staff in one place for community and collaboration," says Jack Dangermond, Esri president.

Worth It

"The User Conference builds community," remarks Barry Waite, business development manager, City of Carson, California. "You develop relationships with others from your region, others in your field, vendors who support your work, and Esri staff. Much of Esri's success is because its users feel a connection to the company through its staff, bright people who have a passion for what they do. If not for this conference, it would be very hard to get to know so many of these people who are really partners in what each of us does."

Problem solving, making better decisions, making the most of scarce resources, and finding success in changing markets and a changing world—the Esri UC agenda is geared to these goals from the variety of helpful and focused sessions, activities, and events to the inspiring Plenary Session and the availability of Esri staff, other users, and exhibitors.

"It was a great learning experience for me," says Ramon Po, GIS specialist, San Diego Fire Prevention Services. "Kudos to Esri's effort, for going the extra mile and showing a very creative mind-set to capture a diversified GIS audience." Andrea Grygo Diamond, GIS specialist, Arrowhead Regional Development Commission, comments, "I was wowed, amazed, and rejuvenated by the GIS field and what people all over the world are doing with GIS." Both beginning and advanced users from all different positions and types of organizations will find ways at the conference to expand their GIS knowledge and skills, network with key people, and take away tools they can put to work right away in their jobs.

What to Expect

Monday's Plenary Session will kick off the conference with a warm welcome despite the sheer magnitude of attendance. Dangermond will share the future of GIS and his vision and highlight GIS projects making an impact across industries and around the world. Esri staff will demonstrate and discuss the latest GIS technology, tools, and functions, and attendees will gain essential insight into applying the technology back home. Important updates, prestigious awards, and distinguished speakers are all part of this rousing session; visitors will want to be present the entire day.

Items to add to your personal agenda will range from user presentations, technical sessions, and workshops to user group or special interest group meetings, as well as a visit to the Exhibit Pavilion. There will also be a number of social activities and places to peruse at will. The Map Gallery, special displays, industry socials, and Thursday Night Party will be spots to not only meet up with other users and connect with Esri staff but to get ideas for implementing, updating, or expanding your GIS applications.

The entire conference is a tremendous opportunity to access staff from all areas of Esri, including professional services, software development, and technical support.

More Information

This conference is for all Esri GIS users. For more information about the 2009 Esri UC, visit www.esri.com/uc or e-mail uc@esri.com.