Design is at a critical inflection point as a practice, thought process and force for change. At “Pivot,” this year’s AIGA Design Conference in Phoenix, we’ll explore the shifts prompting this change—in design thinking, practice, education, technology, society and business—and discuss how we can prepare for the complexities of the future.

What to expect
Reserve your place now for “Pivot,” where you’ll find everything you need to get inspired, make connections and more:

• On the main stage, experience a diverse array of inspiring speakers and the engaging wit and wisdom of moderator Kurt Andersen
• Choose from a wide range of breakout sessions on topics ranging from sustainability to in-house, globalism to interaction design—plenty to satisfy your every design craving and give you the tools you need to take your practice to the next level
• Cheer on the next generation of designers in “Command X: Season 3,” the ultimate live reality show to find America’s next top designer
• Get your creative juices flowing at hands-on creative workshops led by artists and designers from around the country
• Gain tactical strategies that you can take back to your business through practice management workshops
• Get up close and personal with your design hero at daily designer roundtables
• Explore examples of the best design through exhibitions and local studio tours
• Get inspired at the Student Symposium and learn from the pitfalls and triumphs of designers who’ve been there, done that
• Make important connections to enhance your business in the Design Fair
• Continue the discussions beyond the stage with networking receptions, evening events and more to engage with ideas and with each other

This is not just about training and networking—although you’ll meet plenty of colleagues, mentors and vendors while getting practical advice. It’s also the place to celebrate design excellence, develop your professional practice and discuss critical issues affecting the design profession. Get the best rate for this event—register by June 8.

Who is speaking?
As speakers and programming for the 2011 event are confirmed, information will be posted here and updates will be sent to attendees by email. AIGA does not send a conference packet to attendees prior to the conference; all materials will be received when you arrive onsite.
Curious to know what the AIGA Design Conference is like? Take a look at this year’s schedule and check out videos from the 2009 event featuring David Butler, Roger Martin, Stefan Sagmeister and more.

Who is attending?
Review the attendee list to see which of your colleagues have already registered for the conference.

Hotel and travel
The 2011 AIGA Design Conference will take place at the Phoenix Convention Center in downtown Phoenix, just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and accessible by METRO Light Rail and major freeways. See the Hotel and Travel page for more information and exclusive discounts.

The fine print

What’s included
Your conference registration includes admission to all main-stage sessions, breakout sessions, the Student Symposium, the trade show and all evening events. Pre- and post-conference events may require separate, additional fees; details will be available in spring 2011.

Registration policies
Your registration constitutes permission to use photos, audio and video recording taken of you at the event for promotional and educational purposes in connection with AIGA conferences and activities, in corresponding publications, in AIGA’s archives and on AIGA’s website.

There will be a $100 cancellation fee for cancellations made prior to June 8, 2011. AIGA will refund 50 percent of conference fees paid for cancellations made between June 8 and September 13, 2011. No refunds will be available after September 13, 2011. All ticket sales for pre- and post-conference events are final, no refunds will be granted.

Cancellation policy
Conference is subject to cancellation or change. Liability is limited to funds remitted for conference registration and sponsorship fees. Speakers are subject to change without prior notice.

If you need special assistance to participate in this program, please contact AIGA SF at aiga@aigasf.org or 415-626-6008. For reasonable assistance accommodations to be provided, please RSVP for the event and notify us at least five business days in advance. If we do not receive timely notification of your reasonable request, we may not be able to make the necessary arrangements by the time of the event.
More information about accessibility, public transportation and parking.

2 Comments

On 5 Oct 2010 @ 12:16pm, 12:16pm Sherilyn Whiting wrote:

Please send info about 2011 conference.

On 11 Oct 2011 @ 6:49pm, 6:49pm Lucy wrote:

Is it too late to volunteer?