A Recap and Comments from Trimble Dimensions 2012

I wanted to take a moment to post my comments and observations about Trimble Dimensions 2012. The 3 day event was impressive to say the least. I will break it down to the group elements and give my impression of each.

Facilities; The base camp for the week was The Mirage in Las Vegas. The facility is first class and no expense was spared. Food was great, organization was professional. We knew what to do and where to do it. The meeting rooms were sized to the number that signed up. All the audio visual equipment worked, even the chairs were comfortable.  A former gravel pit served as a site with over 20 pieces of heavy equipment performing all aspects of site development. Transportation was on time, food provided on site and tents for sessions to keep us out of the bright sunshine while learning. There was an offsite computer lab also. By the time I  signed up for classes, all the spots were taken. I will leave a review of that to another writer.

Classes; There were hundreds of classes available in various industry tracks. We moved through various tracks as our business involves multiple disciplines. Class length varied but always had the same message. “If you want to know more, I am available.” Every instructor would be on the floor of the pavilion to do more training or answer additional questions. If you wanted a general introduction to a process, software or hardware the class would be fine. If you need to drill down to specific needs, no problem. Our staff that attended, took full advantage of this, reportedly driving some of the staffers to drink. At least it was their excuse.  We got our questions answered though.

Events; Key note speakers daily, special receptions and other social functions made me feel like it was cotillion season. A mobile app was available to keep one up to date with what was available and any venue changes.  Not much got moved around. We used the app for alternate classes we wanted to attend so we could maximize our time there. The Gala dinner the last night was a combination of great food and entertainment, very well done.

The exhibit floor

People; Sure it was great to connect with old friends and make new ones. The biggest advantage was to shake the hand and speak to the actual people who are responsible for a particular product. Questions are answered by someone who knows and it makes future communication more personal. There were over 3,500 attendees. I do not how many hundreds of Trimble employees were there. The official staff shirt became a bulls eye for questions from anyone. I’m guessing those shirts will find a nice spot in the back of the closet real soon.

For those who attended, I’m preaching to the choir. If you did not attend and were thinking about it, I highly recommend it. There is a lot to do and learn. If it is at all possible, I’m sure they are planning on making the next one even better.