Tech●Ed 2010 Shows the Value of Microsoft MVPs

Earlier this month members of my team attended Tech●Ed 2010 in New Orleans, an event where we share our training and expertise with IT professionals. It’s an event that’s not only energizing, it also reminds me of the importance of connecting with community leaders on a global scale. During the event, we had great opportunities to meet with Microsoft’s Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs). Those are exceptional members of the technical community who share their keen insights and real-world feedback with Microsoft and our customers.

The value of events such as Tech●Ed cannot be understated. The great conversations on the show floor – as well as through social-media channels – showed how important it is to listen to our customers. After all, they’re both our biggest advocates and harshest critics.

During Tech●Ed, some 250 MVPs from 20 countries played a huge role. Nearly half – yes, nearly half – of those MVPs served as presenters and leaders during the conference.  MVPs led informative technical tracks and hands-on demos of the latest Microsoft products, including Office 2010, Visual Studio 2010, and Windows Desktop.

If you followed the live Twitter updates and online conversations, you perhaps felt as if you had a front-row seat. Throughout the week, 687 contributors sent more than 1,500 tweets. That’s about 215 tweets per day. 

Social media also added to the excitement about the range of MVP participation in TechEd events. That included discussions around new Microsoft technologies, the GeekGive.org Habitat for Humanity event, and technical presentations.

Here are some samples from the discussion:
imperugo It’s amazing day …. five mvps in my working room 😀 #Gaia #Rulez #w00t #MVPBuzz.”
IT_Source: Thanks to #TechEd I have two new certifications: MCTS: Windows 7, Configuring and MCITP: Enterprise Desktop Support Technician on Windows 7.”
TVWizard: Now, to put all that learning to good use!. #teched #mvpbuzz.”
andyquiroz: Recap of NOLA #teched – the testing cntr was awesome; Labs were a huge plus; all sessions had great demos. See u next yr in ATL.”
We’ve learned first-hand the value of having leaders in the technical community provide impartial feedback, actively participate in key events such as TechEd, and share their expertise with our customers. Through the Microsoft MVP Award Program, we continually connect with technical leaders around the globe who share their deep expertise, passion, and feedback. They shape technology experiences for all of us.

We look forward to  our continuing work with MVPs, including at these big regional conferences. Make sure to mark your calendars to connect with MVPs at TechEd Europe November 8-12 in Berlin.

Posted by Toby Richards
GENERAL MANAGER OF COMMUNITY AND ONLINE SUPPORT