I’m writing this from the Gnomedex conference in Seattle.
It’s a quirky little technology conference with an unusual format. Instead of the traditional conference format where there’s a line between speakers and attendees, each speaker stands on the stage and leads a “discussion”, with participation from audience members, so everyone really gets to be a speaker. I’m watching John Edwards right now, leading a discussion about the Internet’s role in politics. This format creates a real community; makes you realize how interesting all the people here are, not just the speakers. Last time I was at a Gnomedex was about 4 years ago in Iowa. No offense to Iowa, glad to be in Seattle. 
I’m leading a discussion tomorrow. The idea was that I would lead a discussion about advertising. But I’ve decided to zoom out a little and discuss site promotion in general, advertising being just one aspect. Other topics include PR and press, participation in online communities, offline promotion (throwing parties etc.), being controversial, guerilla marketing, and more. This topic speaks the same to advertisers as well as publishers, because I think everyone wants more interested visitors.
Of course, getting visitors is just one side of advertising. The other side is…making money! Once again, there is room to zoom out and discuss not only advertising, but also paid subscriptions, merchandise, creating offline value, services, and more. I think there’s a link on the Gnomedex site to listen in (WiFi in here is way to slow for me to go and check for you:). If so, hope you can join me.
Speaking of zooming out (and being at a totally bloggy conference), check out my new blog, Ask Pud
