A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to witness first-hand one of the things that I love most about WAA. I originally joined WAA for a few reasons: to meet other analysts, to gain knowledge about the analytics discipline, and to learn what other companies are doing. All of these things came to life earlier this month at the WAA Seattle Symposium.

This year, the Seattle Symposium drew 350 analysts to the Microsoft campus to learn from a range of knowledgeable and gifted leaders in the field. We heard from some of the most recognizable names like Jim Sterne from eMetrics and Joe Megibow from Expedia as well as others, like Kevin Hilstrom, that were new.

We also heard from an incredible panel comprised of practitioners, consultants, and vendors that was probably one of the best panels I’ve heard in a long time. My favorite part of the discussion was the role of analytics in the recent Netflix debacle. You have to check that out.

And we have an easy way for you to experience the Symposium yourself with video from the Symposium accessible on the WAA website.

WAA also has Symposiums this coming year planned for:

• Philadelphia – November 2
• Los Angeles – January 18
• Austin – February 9
• Atlanta – May 2012

I hope you have the chance to view or attend a Symposium this year. Maybe you’d be interested in organizing one in your city. It’s a lot of work, but the WAA provides support with logistics, etc. and what a great way to build community among your local analysts.