For those who do not know, I am one of the co-founders of the Florida Network Users Group, a.k.a (FL)NUG, which is part of the greater (US)NUA organization. We like to call ourselves the “Michael” group since all three of us are named Michael. We have had the pleasure of knowing each other for some time, so the attendees are in for a treat at these events. Typically, we try to get together quarterly in a specific location in Florida. We line up a presenter and there is always a panel discussion. But that is not the sole reason to attend one of these events. It is a way for folks in the networking field to get together, meet some new people, and have a drink (if that is your thing).
Now, with me being there, this introduces the vendor aspect. Vendors sponsor these events and are encouraged to attend. However, they are forbidden from being salesmen. They can not walk up to an unsuspecting attendee and try to pitch them on their product(s). This is good because you can go without pressure to listen to a sales pitch. This time, we took the show on the road to Coppertail Brewing Co. in Tampa, FL! When you get in, before the presentation starts, you can grab some food and your drink of choice. If you want to mingle, go for it! There is no pressure at all to do that.
It’s Presentation Time!
Those who attended this (FL)NUG were in for a phenomenal presentation. One of the other Co-founders, Michael Wynston, presented how digital twin technology was used to automate his organization’s infrastructure lifecycle. Michael said several times during his presentation, “Do you know how many devices are in your network?”. This is critical to understand for several reasons, and most large enterprises do a horrible job at it. So how can they get better at it? The presentation was very well received, and some excellent questions were asked during and after the presentation. I am surprised to see inventory is still a struggle for many companies since leaving the enterprise so long ago. Thankfully there is a path forward to know once and for all, “How many devices do you have in your network…”
Panel Discussion
After a short break, it was panel time! For some reason, some may call it being a glutton for punishment. My hand always goes up to be a panelist. Paul Kenniston from A10 Networks and Dr. Charles Harris Jr., Vice President of Information Technology from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, joined me on the panel. We were asked to weigh in on various topics. These included the proliferation of AI, specifically in information technology, and Whether people should be worried. How organizations do change verifications. The tools that could assist with change verification and an overlay of how digital twins could help with change verification.
It wouldn’t be a (FL)NUG panel without my personal favorite: let’s pick on Mike because he is on the panel hour. This is always fun because it makes it enjoyable for those who gave up one night during the week to listen to people talk about technology.
Wrapping Up
Overall, it was a great event. I want to thank Paul and Dr. Charles for being on the panel and providing their insights into the questions. To know more about the (US)NUA, visit them at https://www.usnua.com/. You can see if there is a NUG in your area. We are still working out where the next one will be! Head over to my linktr.ee to find my socials and LinkedIn. Be sure and follow me to see where the next (FL)NUG will be. I hope to see you there!