VMworld 2016 Roundup: Day 0

Today was what I like to refer to as VMworld 2016 Day 0. This isn’t an official conference day, however some things start to kick off, not the least of which is travel. The driving, flying, and walking take a bit of a toll, but they surely signify that VMworld is practically here.

Kick-off for Some

For some folks, specifically VMware partner folks, Saturday means the start of the Partner Exchange, or PEX for short. Employees that work for partners can get up to speed on sales and technical info to help them be successful.

There’s also sometimes a VCDX learning session going on, which was the case on Saturday morning this year. These VCDX sessions try to answer questions from those interested in the VCDX certification and the process that (potentially) leads up to it. Topics range from what a VCDX defense looks like, to going over the requirements to have a VCDX submission accepted. If you’re even vaguely interested, these sessions are invaluable and I recommend you try to attend one year.

Community

There are a few community events that kick off on day 0. The longest running, as far as I’m aware, is the annual VMworld vBeers. People from the virtualization community simply meet up at an agreed upon place and share a few together, whether that be drinks, laughs, stories, or what-have-you. Many virtualization community members also stage their own mini-meetups, typically arranged and adjusted as people make it into town.

Aperitif

All of these things, travel, learning sessions, meet-ups, can act as a palate cleanser and appetite primer. They help acclimatize you, or at least point you in that direction, for the week ahead. Yes, even the walking. Oh the miles we will walk before the week is out… Tune in tomorrow for my VMworld 2016 Day 1 coverage, which will feature the return of the favourite #VMunderground Opening Acts, as well as the inaugural VMUG shindig. Hope to see you around!