So what’s a flash conference?

Flash Conferences are born out of the realization that everybody’s time is precious. Every aspect of the conference is geared towards streamlining the design process by providing instant feedback on all aspects of each idea. We’re bringing together people with a wide variety of skill sets, so that ideas can be evaluated on their technical, economic, and cultural merits. We’re organizing around specific problems in specific regions, and bringing in advisors experienced in battling them. It’s not just brainstorming- It’s the combined might of everyone's expertise being focused on a concrete, actionable solution which will be developed side-by-side with the volunteers who will implement them.

Think real world problems. Think high speed design. Think appropriate technology and end-user feedback.

Why should I go?

The world we live in is not always conducive to the design process. We have busy lives, messy desks and a tendency to put things off. But a Flash Conference is a chance to throw off the chains of the workweek and come together for one weekend in an atmosphere of motivation and problem-solving in order to make tangible progress towards a better world. Basically, a Flash Conference tears down the barriers to really getting stuff done, so you don’t have to.

It’s one weekend where you can really make a difference, and it’s happening October 19-21, 2007

Flash Conference Philosophy

A Flash Conference is not your average design process. We’ve all been through painfully unproductive brainstorming sessions, hazy to-do lists, and fading commitment. Here are four major foundations of our philosophy:

1. Solid Preparation: Every participant will get a comprehensive overview of the problem ahead of time, so that everyone’s on the same level from the moment they walk in the door.

2. Results: ‘Open ended’ too often means everyone is standing around staring at each others shoes, wondering what the next step is. Flash Conferences have a detailed schedule, problem, and goal, all in a short time period. Immediately after the conference, a pre-designated group will begin turning the designs into action, so you know that your effort isn't going to waste.

3. Instant Feedback: Working on problems in other continents is a great thing to do, but too many designs have been foiled by lack of regional experience. The Flash Conference brings the experts straight to the design team, along with teammates with a wide variety of backgrounds, so every idea is instantly evaluated on all of its merits. We’ll be there with the people who know the problem and know what it will take to get it solved.

4. Focused Environment: Flash Conferences eliminate the distractions of every day life and set a sharp focus on making progress here and now. From the speakers and design reviews to the rooms crowded with white boards, paper and prototyping materials, the environment of the Flash Conference is aimed at maximizing your Awesome potential.

The Flash Conference requires only an enthusiastic mind and a willingness to help. Everything from engineering design to distribution, culture, and education will be covered. If we’re going to put your ideas into action, a comprehensive plan will be needed.