Here are some last-minute tips to help you can enjoy RootsTech 2020 to the max, whether you’re at #rootstech in person or #notatrootstech, enjoying the conference from afar.
RootsTech 2020 is almost here, y’all! Next week, the lucky amongst us will wake up to the beautiful Wasatch mountains. We’ll drink in that serenity because the rest of our days will be a firehose of information and inspiration.
Last year’s view from my hotel room.
For an overview of the conference, see https://www.rootstech.org/salt-lake. So far as what to pack, see What to Wear at Rootstech.
Download the RootsTech Mobile App
Available for both iOS and Android, the mobile app can enhance your experience. It has information is hard to find on the website if it’s listed at all.
The app not only has class schedules, speaker profiles, and exhibitor information, but can also help you plan your schedule and choose between sessions.
Check your mail for your pass if you’re going in person
Mailing out passes before the conference was a significant improvement last year. All you have to do is collect a lanyard from what I call a lanyard tree, slip your pass into the plastic pouch, and grab your free bag. You’re good to go.
If you don’t receive yours in the mail, no worries. Staff will be available as of 7 am, and you can check-in at any info desk. According to RootsTech Marketing Manager, Tyler Stahl, plenty of staff will be in the North foyer (sometimes known as the red room) to get you squared away.
Construction at the Salt Palace
Speaking of finding your way to the north foyer (or anywhere else for that matter), know that this year the Salt Palace is under construction. Study the RootsTech venue maps to avoid frolicking with excavators on your way into the hall. You’ll find it on the app under downloads > Salt Palace Venue Map and Expo Hall Map.
The construction zone is on the south end of the building,closest to the intersection of West Temple and 200 South.
The entrance closest to the “You are Here” art installation will be the closest entrance if you’re staying at the Hilton or Marriot.
#NotatRootsTech: RootsTech Live-Streaming Schedule
Rootstech 2020, as in previous years, will offer live streaming of keynote speakers as well as two educational sessions each day. You can view the schedule at https://www.rootstech.org/salt-lake/live-stream-schedule.
Remember, Salt Lake City is in Mountain time or GMT -7. You can use https://www.thetimezoneconverter.com/ to calculate the schedule in your time zone.
#NotatRootstech and Want More than Live-Streaming? The Virtual Pass Might be for You
You don’t have to miss out on all the excellent education. The Virtual Pass gives you access to 29 recorded classes from the event for $129.
Unlike the live-streamed events, these classes will be recorded and published 10-15 days following the end of the conference. Only Virtual ticket holders will be able to access them. Plus, you’ll have months review them.
Don’t Forget to Download your Syllabus
By syllabus, Rootstech means handouts. Speakers are required to submit these in advance, so you’ll find one for every class. You can even take notes on your downloads in the app!
Exhibition Hall
Study a map of the expo hall (it’s on the RootsTech App) and make a plan of attack. With hundreds of exhibitors from around the world, you don’t want to miss anything.
Don’t Forget to Visit the Wonderful Family History Library
Part of the allure of Salt Lake City in February is a visit to the Family History Library. The library will have extended hours during RootsTech. Plus, they have some renovations to show off. If you enjoy sitting in a dark room looking at microfilm, you might not be too impressed. But otherwise, you’ll love what they plan to unveil. You can see in on the Road to RootsTech Tour of the FHL Library.
Share your RootsTech 2020 Experiences on Social Media
With so many people tweeting and sharing about #RootsTech and #Notatrootstech, find opportunities to make a few virtual acquaintances. Comment and share others’ posts. Also, though there are some serious moments, RootsTech is fun. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your social media posts as well.
Your Turn:
Got any last-minute tips for RootsTech 2020 to share? Please use the comments below!
.
