28th Annual ESRI International User Conference

This summer, more than 14,000 professionals from more than 120 countries will experience the paramount event of the year for the ESRI software user community, the ESRI International User Conference (ESRI UC), to be held August 4–8, 2008, at the San Diego Convention Center in California. Regardless of their industry or level of experience with geographic information system (GIS) technology, all ESRI GIS users are encouraged to attend this enlightening and inspiring forum designed around the theme GIS: Geography in Action.

During this one-of-a-kind event, attendees can grow and share their knowledge about GIS solutions by hearing from their peers during user presentations, meeting directly with ESRI staff, and learning firsthand how to fully leverage GIS in their organizations and communities across the globe. The ESRI UC fuels a multitude of projects that result in more efficient work processes, improved decision making, and an enhanced understanding of our world.

“This conference is at the heart of ESRI,” says Jack Dangermond, ESRI president. “It exemplifies our unique culture and our mission to meet the needs of a broad range of users. The solutions and partnerships cultivated at this event are energizing. Problems solved, issues addressed, challenges overcome, seeing the bigger picture—these outcomes are why the User Conference exists.”

From the Plenary Session’s visionary presentation to the specialized meetings divided into more than 40 tracks, visitors from any industry and location will find an abundance of sessions, activities, and events to

Gain a helpful and insightful overview of the latest GIS software.

See the road ahead for geospatial technologies and trends.

Hear about recent applications, success stories, and lessons learned.

Network and socialize with other users and ESRI staff.

Attend demonstrations and workshops that focus on the newest release, ArcGIS 9.3.

Pose questions about training, product upgrades, site licenses, and more.

In addition, attendees can visit the Exhibit Pavilion, where approximately 300 ESRI business partners will be showcasing and discussing their state-of-the-art products and services. Now accepting digital map entries for the first time, the Map Gallery will host a diverse collection of maps and posters illustrating the global impact of GIS. Special Map Gallery displays are expected from the National Geographic Society, American Botanical Gardens Association, the Nature Conservancy, Department of the Interior, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)/Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the United Nations, and more. There will be more than double the number of in-depth preconference seminars than last year, and the GIS Concept and Industry Focus sessions will be back by popular demand, beneficial for those new to or currently managing GIS technology.

Source : http://www.esri.com/uc