I am looking forward to seeing you all at this year’s annual UPA conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. The UPA conference is the best venue I know for connecting with our community, learning new skills and techniques, networking and advancing the field of usability.

It has been a tough year, more so than many of us might have thought. The economy has not turned around, and the media is full of war and tragedy. All the more reason to use the opportunity to come to a community, that is in place for us to help improve the state of not only technology and products, but to also feel connected and part of something greater than our individual selves. The conference provides so many opportunities to take initiative, not only learn new things, but make a difference, whether it is starting a new volunteer project, creating new business opportunities or simply connect and find people who are interested in the same things you are.

In particular, the theme, Ubiquitous Usability is quite timely, demonstrating the importance of usability and user centered design in our everyday life, and our everyday contact with technology. Our speakers address these issues in ways that enable us to see our work in a new and relevant light.

The Phoenician is a great venue, and Scottsdale is beautiful. I know it will be a productive and wonderful week.

Elizabeth Rosenzweig,
President, Usability Professionals’ Association