Though similar in size, this conference wasn't exactly like the previous year. There seemed to be a more balanced mix between vendors and users, there were some new exhibitors, and I met a lot more people who were relatively new to the industry or to Xplor. As usual, the educational sessions were top-notch. I heard several people comment that the information that was being presented was some of the best they'd seen.

Some topics that were covered in the educational sessions included an AFP workshop, multi-channel communications, and social networking. All these were well-attended. I presented sessions on Intelligent Mail and Greening the Document Center which were also well-received.

New this year was a DVD that contained all the presentations from the educational sessions. It was included free with the attendee materials. I'm sure to be referring back to that disk throughout the year.

I sensed a change in momentum from the attendees this year. There seemed to be an acceptance that the communications business is changing and that there are opportunities to be had - in printed pages and otherwise. This is good for our industry and good for Xplor. I am glad I went.

If you're not part of Xplor, or you used to be a member but dropped out, this is a good time to become re-engaged. The association definitely has things to offer to professionals who are interested in all aspects of the business of communication - not just printing and mailing paper documents.