Here are some other posts about the ALT.NET Conference here in Austin:
I have been twittercasting the conference so far.
We started with opening remarks and an introduction to the open spaces concept.
At an Open Spaces conference, the attendees set the agenda. So that's what happened: interested people walked to the center of the room and explained their idea or topic. Then they took a sticky note (on which they had written the idea) and placed in on a big schedule. Votes and negotiations follow.
A couple things stood out. First - there are natural leaders. It's quick and easy to identify them when they stand up and convene sessions that seem to resonate.
Also, the freedom to personally shape a large group's agenda is very powerful and empowering. Open spaces really encourages an interesting, critical, thought provoking dynamic.
We were also treated to an example of a fishbowl discussion, during which attendees attempted to define ALT.NET.
I'll try now: ALT.NET is, first, a set of ideas about programming. These ideas led programmers to develop specific tools. And now ALT.NET has grown to include educating the mainstream about these ideas and encouraging the mainstream to adopt of these tools. But it's all a critical thinking process. ALT.NET is never satisfied with the status quo.
Scotts Guthrie and Hanselman are here, lending their internet fame. They are both going to show off some new Microsoft stuff that sort of gels with the ALT.NET way of thinking.
I'll post a detailed session list as soon as I see one.
Super excited about the ALT.NET conference. I am driving to Austin on Friday. I will be [live-]blogging (and twittering) the happenings. Looking forward to meeting those who will be there. and looking forward to telling you all about it, if you won't be able to attend.