Restarting the New Zealand Calendar of UX Events

I’ve been talking to a few Auckland-based User Experience (UX) folk recently – discussing how we can better connect, network, learn and be inspired.

In my talks, I’ve noticed that not everyone is necessarily aware of all the various UX-related events already happening in Auckland, so I thought it would be a good idea to restart my UX Calendar of Events.

The UX Calendar lists each event individually, but here’s a brief overview of what’s already happening in Auckland:

  • Auckland Web Meetup – John Ballinger & friends organise a great event, typically with 3 speakers each time, so there’s usually at least one topic of interest. And there’s free beer and pizza,  and drinks afterwards – good opportunity for networking.
  • Auckland UX Book Club – Two books successfully discussed so far, and the group is growing. Thanks to Peter Grierson for kicking this off this year!
  • Auckland Pecha Kucha – Initially started by the Architecture crowd in Auckland, but topics vary and provide a great insight into how other creatives work and think. I love the format: 6 minute presentation means you never get bored.
  • Girl Geek Dinners – Monthly dinners for the more geeky women amongst us, but I’m sure they’re welcoming to everyone…
  • DINZ run occasional events, such as Designers Speak Plurals. The next one is in Auckland on 29th July. Looks like a great line-up of speakers.
  • YMedia are currently running the YMediaChallenge.
  • Design Assembly  put together an evening of talks and discussion for Graphic Designers four times a year. The next one is on 30th September. 
  • There are even rumours of an upcoming TEDx event in Auckland (Oct 1?). More info shortly. 

Let me know if I’ve missed any…

Two great events in Auckland for World Usability Day

There will two events in Auckland for World Usability Day on Tuesday 14th November.
At lunchtime, we will be making some (visual) noise with some red balloons in the streets of Auckland, highlighting good and bad examples of user experience.
In the evening, Shona Bishop, GM of Marketing & Business Development at the Bank of New Zealand, and Natasha Hall from Trade Me will be talking about how they’ve introduced usability into their organisations.
Find out how you can get take part in the events calendar.
I’m hoping for lots of people at lunchtime (and in the evening too, of course). We’ve ordered 100 balloons so there should be enough to go around….! Don’t be shy – come along!