From 29 to 31 August, the second edition of the ALE unconference will take place in Barcelona. Because there seems to be a lot less buzz around the event, compared to last year, I thought I could contribute my bit.
What is the ALE2012 unconference?
I always hate to re-use standard texts, so I’ll give you my personal vision. The ALE conference is a European initiative that grew out of the brilliant minds of a couple of European agilists who created the ALE network. I’m not going to try to list them, because there’s always going to be one pissed off guy who I forgot to mention 
You can check the website, if you’re interested.
When I returned from last year’s ALE conference, it didn’t feel like I had attended a conference. It felt more like having been on an inspirational retreat with friends. And that’s strange, because I only knew a couple of people at the beginning.
The format of the conference, with its morning sessions and afternoon Open Space made it so easy to get to know people. And not in a networking kind of fashion. The ALE2011 conference had a special atmosphere, one where everybody felt engaged to contribute and be open. Side initiatives such as the Spouse and Kids program & the dinner with strangers stimulated everybody to think outside of the box, even more than most agilists are used to.
Ever since, the investment of going to Berlin has been paying itself back continuously. I significantly broadened my horizon, started to explore new ideas and still keep on getting new inspiration from all the new friends I started to follow.
This year, the conference is happening in the beautiful city of Barcelona! Imagine that! Beautiful weather, tapas restaurants, vibrant nightlife, lot’s of interesting places to visit,…
I’ve been able to convince my wife to join me. Maybe next year I’ll bring the kids too. For me, this is a winning combination. Mixing inspirational learning with a dash of private life and a pinch of holiday.
It’s going to be amazing! So don’t miss out on it, there’s still time to register. It will only cost you 250€ for the 3 best days of your professional life. So buy your new pair of Gucci sunglasses next year and come join us in Barcelona!
