DSXchange

Still trying to decide whether to go to the IBM information on demand conference in November? It is the biggest IBM conference and it has 700+ elective sessions and I have posted the preview of the 36 information server sessions:
information server sessions at IOD

There are also usability sandbox sessions where provide feedback on future functionality including the thin client replacement for the DataStage designer.

The ratio of DataStage sessions has dropped over the years as IBM has acquired cognos, mdm and become obsessed with big data but there are still enough to keep you busy.

We should find a way for all us dsX-changers to meet up while there!

Ernie

We did have a gathering last year.

Met a few (small few) of the folks here.

I'm registered, and hoping for another gathering. May I also suggest a location where we can sit for a bit and hold conversations without decibel ambiance of the crowd?

The Aussie's won't show unless someone says beer is involved...

Beer is involved, but I won't set any expectations. I know how finicky Aussies can be with beer.

Is there any place in Vegas during IOD week that has a "quiet ambiance?"

Ernie

Ernie, I plan to find out. I have a couple of native LV friends to ask. My first requirement is that the place have craft beers on tap or bottles.

Lots of places with ambiance, mostly the kind that can be enhanced by the addition of lots of single dollar bills...

None of them what I would call "quiet" though... I think Las Vegas has the attitude that if you want quiet, stay at home!

Google Maps shows several within walking distance (including tram) of Mandalay Bay casino. I'll do the research and find out if my friends have opinions about any of them. Most of them are not actually in a casino, which may bode well for decibel level.

True (re:quiet). We don't need "quiet", but it would be nice to hear yourself think. ; )

Let's do something in mid-evening --- in case people have other meetings or dinners they need to attend to first.....like 8pm somewhere (or at least start and then continue [/i]into and through mid evening....

Ernie

I shall not be attending this year.

New job, existing company Admin has dibs on attending (rightfully so).

I would vote that you have your get together at Fogo De Chow (sp?)!

It's a cab ride from Mandelay Bay, but worth it! Yummy meats.

I should have checked here before forming my own agenda! Thanks for the list, that's a very helpful way of looking at the sessions. I just wanted to add one more to the list that appears to have been overlooked:

IQM-3816A: Birds of a Feather: InfoSphere Information Server: Experiences improving and monitoring data quality

Thanks,
-Sean

I had a bad experience at a "Sponsored" Birds of a Feather session. Turned out to be more of a sales pitch lunch. blah

I was on the fence about attending a Birds of a Feather lunch session, but after hearing about your experience I believe I'll be sitting that one out.

Thanks,
-Sean