Are Learning Conferences Worth It?
In planning for the next calendar  year for WPLMS, I have circled some key dates for attending the larger Learning Conferences in our industry.  Get togethers like DevLearnCon, MLearnCon, Enterprise Learning Conference & Expo, Training Conference & Expo, Learning Solutions Conference & Expo, and ASTD’s slew of conferences are great resources for the learning industry.
My goal in attending these conferences is two fold: First (and most importantly) I want to put a face to the WPLMS offering, evangelize the product, and engage in general networking within the industry.  I have been fortunate thus far in the project to meet some very intelligent people who have graciously offered pieces of advice for WPLMS, and the industry as a whole – I find great value in this. My second intention is to attend the presentations and learn a thing or two in order to stay on top of current and emerging trends.
While making a list of potential conferences to attend (all of which require some sort of travel and accommodations), I realized that going to all of these various events probably doesn’t make good business sense. Â While it is impossible to put a price on the value of networking, the cost of hitting the road to attend every event adds up quickly.
Which makes me wonder – are these industry conferences even worth it? Â I would still say “yes”, but perhaps all of them aren’t necessary. Â As such, I’ll likely be attending only one (perhaps two) that makes the most sense for WPLMS (please feel free to make suggestions), and maybe a few smaller local conferences as applicable. Beyond that, the focus will be on building out WPLMS, focusing on support never seen before in this industry, and serving our clients.
I would be curious to know if you have attended any of the conferences I listed above – if so, feel free to share your thoughts.
Justin Ferriman
@LearnDashLMS