Summary
In the opening remarks for Design Ops Summit 2023, Lou Rosenfeld expresses gratitude to attendees and highlights the growth of the design ops community since the summit's inception in 2017. He acknowledges the loneliness many in the sector face, particularly during tough periods like 2023, and encourages participants to connect with one another. The conference is designed to combat feelings of isolation and foster networking, featuring a packed agenda that includes curated sessions focusing on the evolving nature of design ops. Conference co-curator Bria Alexander joins Lou, expressing excitement about the program and urging attendees to embrace the opportunity for making new friends. She outlines key themes of the conference and important logistical aspects, including sponsor sessions and social activities aimed at enhancing connectivity among attendees. The session concludes with a reminder of the conference's code of conduct to promote a loving and supportive environment.
Key Insights
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The design ops practice has seen significant growth since the conference began in 2017.
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2023 has been a challenging year for many, exacerbating feelings of isolation among design ops professionals.
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Attendees are encouraged to form connections with at least one new person during the conference.
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The importance of community and support in the design ops field is emphasized throughout the opening remarks.
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Sponsor sessions offer high-quality, non-sales content to both registered and non-registered attendees. There's a strong community intent behind these offerings.
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Networking is a key focus, with social activities planned to encourage informal connections.
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The conference is structured to make participation more accessible with streamlined registration for sponsor sessions.
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Contribution from sponsors plays a crucial role in the conference's success and program quality.
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Maintaining a respectful and kind virtual community is a priority, as outlined in the code of conduct.
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The role of sketch noting is highlighted as a method to capture ideas without the burden of personal note-taking.
Notable Quotes
"By showing up, you're doing so not just for yourselves, but for everyone else that's here."
"Many of you are spending way, way, way too much time alone."
"This is a design ops summit. You're with your people, we get you."
"I want you to try to walk away from this conference with at least one new design ops buddy."
"We've got so much packed in, you're not gonna believe it."
"What we've got to show you today really puts heart and soul into the program."
"Conference sessions are designed to be supportive, informative, and engaging for all participants."
"It's important for you to put your question in the thread associated with the talk."
"Without our sponsors, the conference would never be able to be what it is."
"We want to know if you feel uncomfortable in any way, shape, or form."
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