The problem with conferences

Erik did a great writeup and evaluation of the latest Creative Company Conference. His closing comment I found pretty interesting, and it ties in with something that we here at Klatergoud HQ have been discussing for a while now:

Again, like last year, the format of the conference was completely uncreative: a puppet on the stage with a power point, and us in the audience gawking at him (there were no hers). What I really really miss at these conferences is time for reflection with other participants. So many very interesting people in the room and such a great opportunity to share ideas or even work on solving problems. But there’s no time to learn from each other because the programme is packed with expensive speakers. I’m sure some people in the room want to be entertained, but I would be happier with a different format: I’m envisioning a setting where interesting people form different backgrounds get together in an inspiring setting and actually work on a project together: there’s no better way to learn from each other.

There is a lot of room for improvement in the format of the conference. Interaction, with the speaker but also between attendees should be an integral part of the programme. It’s ironic an industry that revolves around teaching and sharing ideas has not evolved much since its inception, while universities, who are in the same business, have adopted much more interesting models of late.

It’s time for a change!

That said, I don’t want to hold from you the presentation of the almight Sir Ken Robinson. I’ve probably seen his TED presentation a hundred times, and this one is no less thought provoking and inspiring.