7 weeks till the Summit takes place - and just like you, I can't keep calm.
5000 people are estimated to attend Summit this year, the majority of attendees are first-timers. The Summit is an investment you want to make most of (especially if you're traveling from overseas).
Here's what you should expect:
Celebrating Teams
Summit is making a shift from an Atlassian user-event to a conference for teams, by teams. People from various industries and teams will witness world-class sessions on efficient work-style, changes to Atlassian tools and tips to advance their workday and life. The event is based on celebrating team innovation.
Level Up
Just like every year, you can opt-in for training and certifications. The first 2 days are dedicated to it and give attendees the perfect opportunity to take their skills to the next level. Check out the schedule here.
Pro Tip
Community Leaders at Summit
The angels who answer your questions, discuss all things Atlassian and are big enablers of this thriving space - the Community Leaders will be at the Summit. You'll be able to meet people you've been in constant touch with via the community, exchange ideas with them and not wait for hours for a discussion to move forward!
Pro Tip
Team Awards
This needed it's special space - because it is the FIRST-EVER Atlassian Team award. Atlassian will be honoring teams that have pushed boundaries and built a culture of innovation.
We want to recognize these one-of-a-kind teams for their ingenuity and impact on the future of teamwork.
Atlassian Summit 2020 website
There are 3 categories - Team of the Year, Best in Class (Technical), Best in Class (Non-Technical). The winners receive special recognition at Summit.
Bash
Well, we can't forget about Bash! It is on the last day - so you let loose, party and have a good time. Last year the theme was 'The 80s'. This year an official announcement is yet to be made! You'll have music, food, games, drinks, and Atlassians partying up with you. Watch out the Summit space for the theme announcement for 2020.
Amazing Break-out Sessions
Something every Summit veteran recommends is to plan your talks ahead of time. There is so much going on - choose your battles, attend the unmissable sessions. Create a list for the ones you want to hear so that you can go back home with a YouTube ready list. Malcom Gladwell will be one of the keynote speakers - yes you read that right! Check out the topics and speakers that are on the Summit Page here.
Pro Tip
If you find a speaker particularly interesting, you can get in touch with them via LinkedIn and request an in-person chat.
Expo Hall
Many sponsors, like us, have booths showcasing their apps. One of the biggest tips by Summit veterans is to spend significant time at the expo hall. Talk to partners, build relationships and learn about the new apps. They make a compelling case- all talks are available online unlike the expo hall.
Pro Tip
Networking
People from different industries from all over the world come to attend Summit. For many attendees, breakout sessions take a back seat and they look forward to speaking with their peers, industry experts, and vendors. It's your chance to build relationships that can vastly help you personally and professionally.
Have a plan
Planning your Summit is the key to enjoying it - make a note of the Sessions you'd like to attend, schedule meetings in advance and reach out to anyone you'd like to talk at Summit. Make sure you have a warm top in case you are cold, wear walking shoes - cause the venue is massive. Here I would suggest carrying a bag for your swag - but this year TechTime has taken the onus of giving away bags so you can collect yours at Booth #451.
Summit will be long, rigorous and absolute information overload - but you'd still want to go back year-on-year because it is a massive celebration of technology, teams, and innovation. In case you can't be part of Summit 2020 in person, you can access the Virtual Summit experience.
If you're coming for Summit see my next blog, How to prepare for Atlassian Summit 2020. If your boss needs a bit more persuasion, read - How to convince your boss for Atlassian Summit 2020.
Go to Atlassian Summit 2020 prepared!