Good morning.  Back on the blog today.  Sitting here at the opening session of Learning 2008.  Very different feel to the conference this year.  I think everyone is really try to search and discover where the next step and the next real move is in the Learning industry.  All the usual conversation discussing social networks, learning management systems, content, etc.  But I sense confusion over where the next move is going to be.

There is also trepidation over the economy.  How is what is going on at Wall Street going to affect all those gathered here and the people they train. 

But the critical issue is how do we change to a new reality.  The opportunity here is to make Learning a critical part of the business.  The opportunity is make learning the head of the change process that leads us into a new economy and a new way of working.  Productivity is critical and people are vital.  So where do we find productive, qualified people who are vital to the organization?  My instinct tells me that it is not about finding these people externally, but it is about developing these individuals into incredibly value contributors.

I think this conference is going to be very interesting this year.  Lots of changes, lots of opportunity and lots of great people to speak with.  More to come on all these topics.

I will speaking at 130pm ET today.  The topic...Implement a new LMS or stick a pencil in my eye...touch choice.