First Round Imagine Cup Judging Fun

The teams at the Competitor Briefing. Can you find yourself there?

We had an early start today, what with over 60 teams to view. The judges were placed into teams of 4 and worked their way through 8 or so presentations each. And it was great. I really enjoy this part of the competition, and I love seeing the ideas that the teams have, and they way they present them.

After each presentation we returned to the judges room to write up scores and feedback. Each team will get the handwritten feedback on their entry and presentation at the end of the competition.

Imagine Cup 2010 Poland Opens

Cutting the ribbon at the start of the competition

We had fantastic weather for the opening ceremony, which was good news for everyone except Jon Perera of Microsoft who’s eyes needed protection against the glare when he gave his opening speech.

I’ve spent the day working with the judges and getting things set up. If you think the competitors are passionate about the competition, you haven’t met the judges.. There is a total commitment from them to make sure that everything is done transparently and fairly, they really are a pleasure to work with.  Judging starts tomorrow, best part of the competition for me. That’s when I get to find out what the teams have been up to this year.

Imagine Cup Setup

Rob in Warsaw. Very large building included to give sense of scale. Note that it is not smoke coming out of my head, it is a cloud (or perhaps an empty thought bubble).

Today we got a chance to look at the venue for the Imagine Cup. Astonishing. Again. Every year we go somewhere amazing. Behind me you can see the Palace of Culture, where we are holding just part of the event.

The even have “Imagine Cup” stairs.

Palace of Culture, Culture

Intercontinental Hotel, where the students are giving their presentations.

It all starts tomorrow. Can’t wait.

Imagine Cup Poland

I got a window seat

Flew out to Poland today for the 2010 Imagine Cup Final. I’m helping with the judging, which means I get to go to Warsaw, which is great. Of course, I took a camera (yet another one) and it does take nice pictures.

Sunlight at 24,000 feet makes nice shadows through your cola.

 
Downtown Warsaw

The judging starts on Sunday, tomorrow we are going to get everything ready for the judging. This evening we went out and I had groats for tea. Great stuff.

Another Year of MVP-ness

This afternoon I got an email informing me that my Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional) status has been renewed for another year.

Thanks very much folks. I’m flattered that you think so much of me.