Today is the official start of VMworld 2018, but think of it more as move in weekend right before college classes start. Today most people are checking into their hotel, picking up their badge and backpack, and getting the lay of the land, or attending some of their first sessions.
VMworld 2018 App
If you haven’t downloaded it yet, go and get the VMworld App, it helps you with all things VMworld and is an essential pocket guide for navigating through your week. First download the app from your perspective App Store:
VMworld 2018 – Apple App Store
When you first open the app you’ll be prompted to select which VMworld you’re attending, either the US or Europe events. Then, login using the credentials you used to register. In the app you’ll be able to quickly access your QR Code for badge pickup, you’ll also be able to view your personal schedule, look at daily agendas, and even the session catalog if you want to try and make some last minute changes.
Badge Pickup
Badge pickup this year works a little different than in years past. Previously you would wait in line to be called up to an attendant, then scan your badge and wait for it to print, then present your legal ID to obtain your badge. This year, you scan badge and then enter what seems like a queue, but it’s really just a bull pen area that you wait in until your badge is printed and an attendant shouts your name.
Swag Pickup
After you get your badge head on down to the VMvillage to collect your conference bag and notebook. There is additional swag to be won this year, but you got to play along and complete some specific tasks in order to win it.
This year’s backpack is a convertible bag that can be used as a backpack or a laptop bag. It has a USB plug on the outside of the bag that you can use as a pass though to recharge devices.
There’s also a notebook and pen. This year’s notebook is brought to by VMUG!
Welcome Reception Sponsored by Veeam
On Sunday’s evening the World of Solutions was opened for a welcome reception, sponsored by Veeam. The reception offers free food and drinks and a chance to check out VMworld sponsor booths.
VMUG Leader Toast and VMUG Member Party
Shortly after the welcome reception is the VMUG Leader toast, followed by the VMUG Member party at the House of Blues in the Mandalay Bay. The first hour from 6:30PM-7:30PM was strictly for VMUG Leaders. It’s opportunity for both tenured and new leaders to meet or reconnect.
VMUG President Ben Clayton and VMUG CEO Brad Tompkins kicking off the Leader toast with the kind words.
As always, the VMUG HQ team secured an awesome band, Hey Jimmy, for some live entertainment! They really rocked the House of Blues!
As always, Michael Dell came out to say a few words to the VMUG community.
VMworld 2018 – Day 2
Tomorrow kick’s off with the opening keynote, titled “Technology Superpowers.” I’ll be taking notes for a blog post and tweeting out some fun photos on Twitter.
No Blinky Blinky 