The Latest Bits & Bytes from SXSW Interactive

Former SXSW Keynote DJ Spooky Returns to Texas

hugh — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:08:47 +0000

Austinites should check out DJ Spooky tonight, Friday, Nov. 20, at Hogg Auditorium. Also known as Paul Miller, he will be performing "Terra Nova: Sinfonia Antarctica," which has been described as an "acoustic portrait of a rapidly changing continent."

A longtime proponent of open source remix culture, DJ Spooky served as one of the keynote speakers at the 2001 SXSW Interactive Festival. Speaking of keynotes, we'll release another big list of confirmed programming on Dec. 1.

DJ Spooky photo by Mike Figgis.

Like.com Acquires 2009 Accelerator Winner, Weardrobe.com

raquel — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:43:51 +0000

Weardrobe.com, one of the winners of the 2009 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW, was recently acquired in a brilliant move by Like.com. The retail search engine will match pieces of clothing posted by the fashion community’s users to items for sale on Like.com, making shopping one step easier.

In the words of Weardrobe.com’s own Susan Xie, "[Accelerator] was the first large-press recognition that we got, and it really helped us build our name brand." So, what are you waiting for? Click here to enter.

Technology companies looking for an opportunity to showcase their innovative product / service should visit the SXSW website for more information on how to get involved with Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010.

2009 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator Winner Wardrobe.com photo courtesy of Heather Kennedy.

Sapient Hosts the Annual Mix at Six Party

sarah — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:23:38 +0000

The 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival starts March 12 and we want to know, what are you doing that night? Join us and make new friends, network and get inspired by fellow attendees at our official pre-party, The Mix at Six. SXSW Interactive and Sapient are excited to be partnering for this party from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on March 12 at Six Lounge and the adjoining Tap Room (117 W 4th St) in downtown Austin.

This special event is a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new connections or just relax after panels with a cold beverage. The Mix at Six party welcomes SXSW Interactive attendees, industry professionals and those interested in the world of technology.

Don't be shy, come out and enjoy the company of some of the brightest minds in emerging technology and a great view of downtown Austin from the rooftop deck. Stay tuned to our Interactive Parties page as a wide array of evening events are still being announced.

Interested in hosting an Interactive party? Contact Katie King at katie@sxsw.com.

Photo of the 2009 Mix at Six courtesy of Jojo Marion.

More Interactive Sessions To Come On December 1: Announcing ... an Important, Upcoming Announcement!

shawn badgley — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:22:10 +0000

Quiet, accusatory rumors of Tantric obfuscation are floating our way. In an effort to dispel them -- to really get out in front of the story -- we're here to say that another wave of SXSW Interactive programming confirmations is coming at you on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

Roughly one third of our 2010 panel sessions, solo presentations, Core Conversations, readings, and more has already been announced. We expect to end up with more than 400 options for March 12-16, and we're furiously working the phones and touch screens, engaging in spirited debate, poring over the possibilities, and consulting the SXSW Interactive Advisory Board to lock in the rest and release that information to you, the registrants and potential participants. You want to know. You need to know. And you will know. More. Soon.

Seriously . . . we know that the slow-ness of this process can be confusing. Please feel free to e-mail us if you have questions. In the meantime, here's a glimpse inside the process. Thanks for your patience and be ready for the reward!

2009 Panel Audience courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

Watch the Convergence of Music, Film and Interactive Media

russell — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:23:47 +0000

As the ultimate convergence of the music, film and interactive industries, there is no better place to market your brand than at SXSW. As this unique panelist discussion from 2009 aptly illustrates, SXSW is a unique union of new media, marketing and social networking. The synergetic confluence on display is one of the many things that makes SXSW the must attend event of the year.

This featured discussion is a union of film (filmmaker Brett Gaylor, Burnie Burns of Rooster Teeth Productions), music (Jonathan Coulton), and the diverse aspects of the ever evolving interactive world (Scott Kirsner of CinemaTech, Markos Moulitsas of Kos Media, and Natasha Wescoat) that perfectly capsulizes the singular drawing power of SXSW. Whether you are seeking to discover new ideas or fine tune your market approach, SXSW is the place to realize goals.

2010 Interactive Speaker Spotlight: Prominent AWS Evangelist Jinesh Varia

sarah — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:46:31 +0000

In the months leading up to the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival, we'd like to take the opportunity to shine a spotlight on one of the elements that make the event so valuable: the amazing speakers drawn to Austin every March. This week's focus is Web Services Evangelist Jinesh Varia, whose session "Migrating to Cloud Architectures and Its Best Practices" was part of the November 8 programming announcement.

Variaa has over 11 years experience in XML and Web services, making this a panel you won't want to miss. As a technology evangelist, Varia helps developers take advantage of technologies, like cloud computing, that are sure to change the way we think about computer applications, and the way businesses compete in the new web world.

Come learn some tips and tricks at this panel, where Varia will outline the benefits of building highly scalable and available architectures in the cloud. Be sure to check out our list of confirmed programming for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival so you can begin to plan your week accordingly.

Photo of Jinesh Varia from: http://www.opengroup.org/sandiego2009-eccc/varia.html.

ScreenBurn at SXSW Connects Businesses and Fans Alike!

dustin — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:24:25 +0000

Is the current economic slump getting you down? Now is the ideal time to let ScreenBurn at SXSW guide your business toward a new era of gaming grandeur and exposure to SXSW registrants and regional consumers!

"But how can this be," you ask? Shining the spotlight on your business couldn't be easier, especially at ScreenBurn's interactive epicenter where thousands of attendees await to be in your potential target market. This is your opportunity to network with local and regional fans across the globe.

The 2009 ScreenBurn Arcade brought together the synergy of 10,741 Interactive registrants, 1991 Gold registrants, 3,490 Platinum registrants, and 4,000 media under one roof at the Austin Convention Center, in addition to the thousands of regional gaming fans who swarmed to check out the latest wares. Add the fact that the Arcade is FREE and open to the public and the numbers exponentially rise for your current and potential fan base!

ScreenBurn at SXSW offers a positive and secure connection to quality audience and press during tough economic times. Come get your game on by contacting Lindsay Muse for more information.

Photo of registrants and regional consumers gathering around to check out the latest games in the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade courtesy of Brandon Edwards.

The 13th Annual Web Awards, Categorically Speaking

shawn badgley — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:58:22 +0000

To quote Kierkegaard by way of Wayne's World, "Once you label me, you negate me." While we have divided the SXSW Interactive Web Awards into 18 entry categories and ask that you label your website when submitting it for consideration, be assured that we would never think of negating you.

Quite the contrary: We want to celebrate you, the essence of your work, and what attracts people to it. We're confident that the award categories provide focus and get as many creators, content-generators, and innovators involved as possible.

Maybe you're still not sure which category best fits your website, but you're set on entering as the Friday, Dec. 18, Web Awards submission deadline nears. Before we get into this week's category primer, keep in mind that you can enter your site into multiple categories. Please see our Web Awards FAQ for more details.

With that, let's take a closer look at four of the Web Awards submission categories:

Film / TV: Sites related to actors, television, films and the film industry, as well as destinations that offer streaming video content. 2009 Web Awards Winner: Hulu

Games: The online destinations that help make your life a lot more fun. This includes game sites and flash-based games. 2009 Web Awards Winner: Why So Serious? The Dark Knight Alternate Reality Game

Mobile: Sites optimized for handheld and portable devices. This also includes mobile apps for iPhone, Blackberry, Android and the like. 2009 Web Awards Winner: Gigotron

Music: Sites related to musicians, bands, and the music industry, as well online radio and other destinations that offer streaming audio content. 2009 Web Awards Winner: James Zabiela

We hope this helps. Next week, we'll home in on four more categories. In the meantime, e-mail us with specific questions.

Photo of 2009 Web Award winners Ben Satterfield and Trystan Kosmynka of Gigotron courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

Grow Your Brand By Sponsoring the SXSW iPhone App

Peter — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:56:22 +0000

The SXSW 2010 - Discover Music, Film, Interactive application for iPhone and iPod Touch is the latest in an illustrious line of premier branding opportunities at SXSW. This unique application affords bands the opportunity to share mp3s, film to showcase trailers, and interactive sessions to broadcast audio podcasts. Just last year there were over 1,000 bands supplying mp3s, 150 films providing trailers and over 100 interactive audio podcasts released. And we want your name on it.

Available through the iTunes App Store, this application is guaranteed to be teeming with media from SXSW 2010. With fresh content constantly available before, during, and even after the event, this application will be a valuable and functional treasure.

The release of this application is imminent, so this exclusive opportunity will not last long. To get your branding on the hottest marketing item in the SXSW stable, email sales@sxsw.com.

Align With the Latest and Greatest at Accelerator

sarah — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:07:16 +0000

Accelerator at SXSW showcases some of the web's most exciting new innovations and allows the entrepreneurial visionaries behind these new products to present their creations to a panel of industry experts and representatives from the Venture Capital community. The second edition of Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW takes place over March 15-16 and offers one-of-a-kind sponsorship opportunities.

We have established three levels of sponsorship: Silver Sponsors, Premium Sponsors and Title Sponsors that include different scales of visibility on marketing, advertising, promotional and event levels. Sponsorship is a great way to expose your company to a culture of technology leaders, early adopters and creative media innovators.

Companies that sponsor receive the benefits of company name recognition on all press releases related to SXSW Accelerator, company logo on the SXSW Accelerator events banners and billing in the SXSW Accelerator event attendee program, among others.

Join our family of sponsors and support Accelerator at SXSW 2010 and the innovative companies who are participating. For more information on sponsoring this event contact Katie King at katie@sxsw.com.

FAQ Spotlight: Staying Up To Date With SXSW Interactive With the E-Mail Newsletter

shawn badgley — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:03:32 +0000

A big part of the SXSW Interactive Festival's appeal is the idea that no matter where you turn, there's a metric-ton of programming available to participants: panel sessions, keynote speakers, ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade, social networking (actually in person), competitions like Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator and the Web Awards, the Film and Interactive Trade Show, and more.

As inspiring and exciting as March 12-16 will be, the nonstop sense of wanting to see everything, meet everyone, and be everywhere can be overwhelming. We're here to restore your whelm to normal levels and help you navigate the experience.

A good way to stay apprised of the latest SXSW Interactive developments is to sign up for our e-mail newsletter. Ten seconds and a couple of clicks could lead to a lifetime of good news. As we gradually ramp up for March and the expectations grow, it's crucial to keep in touch, share information, and ask questions. When your questions come up, take a scroll through our SXSW Interactive FAQ or simply e-mail us.

WANTED: Submissions for ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition

dustin — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:34:34 +0000

Calling all emerging game designers! Drop your controllers and pick up your keyboards as the December 4th deadline to submit your ideas into the ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition quickly draws near. ScreenBurn, the video game element of the South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive festival, continues to bring its A game with the second annual Game Design Competition and hopes the new round of participants offers the same.

The Game Design Competition encourages participants to convey a gaming concept within two categories, AAA and Casual game design, to a panel of industry professionals in all its proofread, written glory (while keeping it to a brief 200 words, of course). Think of it as a game in itself with a high score to shoot for. There is no fee to participate and each person can submit up to two ideas to the competition.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect with industry professionals only through ScreenBurn at SXSW, otherwise it's game over.

Photo of 2009 Game Design Competition winners courtesy of Ryan Chahanovich.

Only One Month Until 2010 Web Awards Entry Deadline

shawn badgley — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:37:05 +0000

Few accolades are more fulfilling than recognition from your peers. The 13th annual SXSW Interactive Web Awards, presented by Adobe and supporting sponsor Convio, offer just that opportunity. But if you're planning on sipping champagne and improvising celebratory handshakes with the best and the brightest on Sunday evening, March 14, 2010, then you'll first want to pay special attention to Friday, Dec. 18, 2009: the deadline to submit your website for consideration.

Twenty award categories -- from Activism (last year's winner: Tweet Congress) to Amusement (Addictionary); Business (Jasmax) to Best of Show (We Tell Stories); Personal Portfolio (Ali Felski) to People's Choice (Lost Zombies) -- await your entry, which must have been launched or redesigned in 2009. That is unless you think you've got a chance at the Classic award, which will go to a site predating Jan. 1, 2009.

Judges in two rounds will evaluate the nominees on design, creativity, and content. Finalists receive two complimentary registrations to SXSW Interactive and passes to the Web Awards, while winners are bestowed with some mantle bling, a prize package, and that elusive industry buzz. If you're still procrastinating, consult our 2010 Web Awards FAQ or e-mail us with any questions. Otherwise, don't ruin your life by missing this deadline.

2009 Web Awards winner Michael Galpert photo courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

Rock the Vote

Katie — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:49:34 +0000

We are blown away by the high caliber of the hundreds of designs that were submitted for the SXSW 2010 T-shirt Design Competition hosted by our friends at 99designs. With 658 creative designs to choose from, we had our work cut out for us and it wasn't easy. But we've managed to narrow it down to five designs for you to vote on - select your favorite and the winning design will become a t-shirt and sold through SXSW Merch in March. Cast your vote by Friday, November 20 and let your choice be known! A special thanks to all of the talented designers who submitted their work, we've been very impressed by your creativity.

Click here to start voting!

Valuable Connections and Business Opportunities Abound at ScreenBurn at SXSW

Lindsay — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:50:43 +0000

What makes participating in ScreenBurn at SXSW the best value for your dollar? The ScreenBurn Arcade includes valuable assets bundled into one package that you can't put a price on.

Real estate in the ScreenBurn Arcade is affordable for indie companies looking to launch their brand into the public sphere as well as for large companies who need a customized activation. Arcade space prices are less than $10 per sq. ft., running 2, 3, or even 4 times less expensive than a comparable event. Included with a stand in the ScreenBurn Arcade, you receive one complimentary 2010 SXSW Interactive registration (valued at $550) that gives you access to all SXSW Interactive & ScreenBurn at SXSW panel programming and evening events.

This package also includes a link to your company's web page on SXSW.com site (with approximately 1 million hits a day beginning in March), listing in the February 2010 issue of SXSWORLD magazine (distribution of 17k) and listing in the ScreenBurn Program Guide (distribution of 13k).

We work hand-in-hand with each exhibitor to plan your product launch, demo or tournament to gain the most valuable press coverage and attention at our event with over 4,000 Platinum, Gold and Interactive registered press in attendance during ScreenBurn at SXSW.

Get on board today to receive even more benefits before our November 13, 2009 sales and registration discount deadline passes. Contact Lindsay Muse for more information on how to get the best value to give your brand the awareness it deserves at ScreenBurn at SXSW.

Photo of ScreenBurn Arcade 2009 courtesy of Peter Tsai.

2010 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW - Top 10 Reasons To Enter

raquel — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:47:03 +0000

Are you thinking Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW might be a good fit for your company? Below are the top 10 reasons to showcase your product or service at Accelerator in 2010.

1. Present to Venture Capitalists
Demonstrate your best ideas to a panel of industry experts. Immediate, on-the-spot feedback will help you hone your presentation and keep you on your toes. This is your chance to get noticed by investors looking for the right funding opportunity. The unique perspective that VCs offer are a valuable resource to the success of your company.

2. Expand Your Audience
Thousands of individuals from around the world flock to SXSW each year looking for the next big thing, and Accelerator is a big part of the excitement. Showcasing your idea at Accelerator attracts the attention of the more than 2,500 Accelerator attendees to your innovative product or service. It’s an incredible opportunity to get in front of individuals who can help take your concept to the next level.

3. Polish Your Elevator Pitch
Pitching is the single-most important skill you need to rise above the competition. That pitch should be rock solid. At Accelerator, you get to pitch your nascent technologies to scores of innovators, content producers, media experts, and venture capitalists. Their feedback and expertise can help you sharpen that all-important pitch.

4. Refine Your Product
No matter how strong your pitch, to attract investors you need a strong product. Presenting your idea to an experienced panel of industry experts, and discussing your product with other entrepreneurs can help you to take it to the next level.

5. Broad & Diverse Categories
We're looking for bright ideas. That’s why we’ve created categories for the event broad enough to encompass many areas of innovation. Choose from Entertainment Technologies, Green / Non-Profit, Innovative Web Technologies, or Social Media / Social Networking Technologies.

6. Take Advantage of Media Exposure
SXSW attracts a lot of media attention, and Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW is particularly interesting to press outlets looking to break the next exciting technology story. Accelerator presenters can leverage that attention to place their company in the spotlight with ample press opportunities.

7. Network and Socialize
One of the greatest values of SXSW Interactive is the amazing mix of industry leaders, technology innovators, big-name companies, fresh startups, cutting-edge developers, and independent talent attracted to the event. Accelerator gives you the opportunity to join that community. Everybody wants to discover the next big thing, and we provide you the chance to do just that.

8. Register at the Lowest Rate
Entering your product or service in Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW guarantees you the lowest early registration rate of $395 for the SXSW Interactive Festival - that's $150 off the walk-up rate.

9. Experience All that SXSW Interactive Has to Offer 
SXSW Interactive offers a wealth of exciting opportunities and events, including panel programming, parties and lounges, the 13th Annual Web Awards, ScreenBurn at SXSW, the Film and Interactive Trade Show and Exhibition, and, of course, the inspirational experience that only SXSW can deliver. Be a part of the experience and enter your innovative product or service to Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator today.

10. Welcome to Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas has long been a hub for freethinking technology movers and shakers. The Central Texas Hill Country has earned the nickname "Silicon Hills" because of the technology industry giants with major operations here and the scores of trailblazing startups and indie tech companies that call Central Texas home. The ever-changing nature of technology and the inclusiveness of its reach make Austin an ideal place to reach out to the larger social web. Did I mention the BBQ?

What are you waiting for? Join us by submitting your entry to Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010 today!

2009 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW photo courtesy of Erin Hanson.

Media Temple Hosts the Annual SXSW Interactive Closing Party

sarah — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:56:17 +0000

SXSW Interactive and Media Temple invite you to attend the incredible party that will officially close the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. Join us at 8:00 PM on March 16 for what is one of our biggest and best SXSW Evening Events. Last year’s party was a huge success as attendees enjoyed delicious BBQ and rides on the mechanical bull.

Come and exchange stories with fellow attendees about your SXSW Interactive experience at the party to end all parties. Don't be shy. Join some of the brightest minds in technology in relaxing with a cold beverage and bringing SXSW Interactive to a close. We hope to see you there as we plan to go out with a bang! Stay tuned to our Interactive parties page as a wide array of evening events are still being announced.

Interested in hosting an Interactive party? Contact Katie King at katie@sxsw.com.

2009 Interactive Closing Party photo courtesy of Ran An.

Today's the Day - Don't Miss Your Chance to Save!

Christine Auten — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:42:48 +0000

Let's say that again. Together, everyone... "Today's the day!" Register by the end of the day today and save big on all SXSW badges. Save $100 on Gold, Interactive and Music Registrations, $125 on Film Registrations and $230 on Platinum Registrations by clicking here now.

SXSW offers the newest music showcased in the live music capital of the world, the most cutting-edge films screened at Austin's coolest theaters, the brightest minds in new media and technology converging on what's become the de facto geek mecca... all in the coolest city this side of Middle Earth.

So what are you waiting for? Your dog to learn English? World Peace? A written invitation? Well, here it is... the invitation, not world peace... or the dog thing: We cordially invite you to register.

And now that you've registered, maybe you want a place to crash after networking your heart out? The SXSW Housing department can book your hotel for you in a snap!

Interested in Advertising at SXSW? Today is also the last day to save 10% on marketing assets!

Photo of the ACC during SXSW 2009 courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

SXSW Celebrates One Year of Cooking Up Our Own Solar Power

sarah — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:06:29 +0000

When contemplating ecological sustainability initiatives for your business, it's important to stay in balance. Green is the goal, but the bank accounts must also be in the black. For SXSW, sustainability begins at home. Or more specifically, on the roof. Since installing an array of solar panels on our building over a year ago, we have generated 7,143 kilowatt hours of clean energy, making a significant dent in our electric bill and our carbon output.

Since our staff lives and works in Austin, SXSW has a vested interest in reducing our carbon footprint year round. As a dynamic company, we know that our greatest challenge lies in simply managing our carbon output while continuing to foster the growth of our event. In that spirit, we hope our efforts towards sustainability help create a greener, cleaner city.

To learn more about SXSW's sustainability efforts and to learn how you can create a greener SXSW experience visit our sustainability page.

Solar array installation photo courtesy of Lighthouse Solar.

November 13 Registration Update for PanelPicker Participants

hugh — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:00:38 +0000

As noted earlier this week, we have now announced about 1/3 of the total programming for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. We are hoping to finalize / reveal the bulk of the remaining slots by mid-December -- but reviewing all the proposals is a very time consuming task.

Meanwhile, if you have submitted an idea to the SXSW PanelPicker and are wondering what you should do about the Friday, November 13 registration deadline, here is our advice. If you are absolutely sure that you are going to attend the 2010 event and you are concerned about downtown hotel availability, then you should register now. If your attendance at SXSW is contingent on your proposal being accepted into the event, then you should wait until December to hear from us. As always, please e-mail us if you have questions.

One More Day to Save on All SXSW Interactive Has to Offer

Christine Auten — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:24:51 +0000

The next early registration deadline for SXSW is only a day away. That means there's just one more day to sign up to experience all that the Interactive Festival has to offer for $100 off the walk up price.

That's the newest technologies on hand in the Trade Show, cutting edge products and services showcased at Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator, the latest video game innovations at ScreenBurn at SXSW, the best new websites competing in the 13th Annual Web Awards, the endless networking opportunities in the many lounges and evening events, and the brightest minds sharing their knowledge and experience through panel programming - That is five days of programming all for only $450! So what are you waiting for? Register today!

2009 Registration photo courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

Register Early for SXSW and Get the Best Choice of Hotel Accommodations

Christine Auten — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:48:15 +0000

The next early registration deadline is just around the corner. Sign up before the end of the day this Friday, November 13 and save big on Music, Film, Interactive, Gold and Platinum registrations.

There are many advantages to registering early for SXSW. The discounted price is the most obvious, but another thing to consider is hotel accommodations. SXSW has blocked off rooms at all of Austin's most desirable hotels at guaranteed rates. These rooms and rates are available only to confirmed SXSW registrants. But even these rooms go quickly, so registering early gives you the best opportunity to get a room in the hotel of your choice.

Don't miss this opportunity to save big on your registration for SXSW 2010 and get the best rates on your choice of Austin hotels. Register by the end of the day, Friday, November 13.

ACC / Hilton photo courtesy of Kim Walker.

Next New in the Trade Show

Peter — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:14:24 +0000

We all know that the Film + Interactive Trade Show is the hub of daytime activity, but did you know that it is also the place to discover the next new thing? As the trade show is filling up fast, there are more and more companies presenting at SXSW for the first time. “We’ve attended SXSW Interactive over the years and have been impressed to watch it grow into a major industry event. By exhibiting for the first time in 2010, we’re excited about the opportunity to share ideas with technology leaders and work with entrepreneurs that are ready to take their online businesses to the next level,” said Clay Olivier, Volusion COO and CMO. Joining Volusion in March is HuddleHub, ClientShow and Bluelounge to name a few. Patrick Hereford from HuddleHub explains, "HuddleHub felt that SXSW is the premiere trade show opportunity that will allow us to effectively market to our audience. Since our launch date is during SXSW, it aligned perfectly with our outlined marketing strategy."

Check out the newly launched exhibitor listings for a continuously updated view of the latest and greatest businesses coming to SXSW Interactive.
Photo of Film + Interactive Trade Show Courtesy of Jenn Soto

Daniel Ek Gives You One More Reason to Go Platinum

Christine Auten — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:19:23 +0000

One of the greatest values of attending SXSW can be found in the eclectic mix of people attracted to all three events: the SXSW Music, Film and Interactive Festivals and Conferences. Filmmakers and producers mingle with web developers and motion graphic artists, movie stars join social media superstars, and musicians and labels unite with new media music moguls.

As diverse as these varied disciplines are, we are seeing a shift to convergence through new technologies that cannot be ignored. A Platinum registration offers the opportunity to experience this convergence first hand. Register for Platinum by the end of this week and save $230 off the walk up rate.

Upgrading to Platinum has its advantages. Music Festival attendees won't want to miss the Interactive Festival 2:00pm Tuesday Keynote conversation with Daniel Ek, CEO and co-founder of the innovative online music service Spotify.

Interactive attendees will find the Film Festival's new Title Sequence Design Competition irresistible and Film attendees will want to take advantage of the wealth of information offered in the many Interactive Festival sessions devoted to new media production and distribution.

And all three elements come together with ScreenBurn at SXSW, the video game element of the Interactive Festival, where film, music and the web collide.

There's a reason we say "Tomorrow Happens Here." Go Platinum today!

Photo of Daniel Ek courtesy of Spotify Press.

Austin ACM SIGGRAPH presents “Portfolio Posse” on November 19

sarah — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:01:30 +0000

Join Austin ACM SIGGRAPH for “Portfolio Posse” at the Capitol on November 19. “Portfolio Posse” is a free-to-attend mixer and portfolio roundup that provides artists, designers and animators the opportunity to obtain formal portfolio review from top pros and hiring managers in film, games, visual effects, animation and graphic design. Confirmed review panelists include senior industry representatives Dwight Adair, Frank Bonniwell, Sean Carnegie and Manuel Carrasco among others.

Whether you’re a pro or a student, come benefit from the critical feedback and career advice of nearly 20 industry professionals. Come and bring your paper or digital portfolio for formal review, and network with members of the visual effects, design, film and video games communities in Austin. “Portfolio Posse” is being held on Thursday, November 19 from 6:30 pm to 9 pm, at the Texas State Capitol (112 East 11th Street) in Austin. Join us and benefit from meeting like-minded members of Austin's digital arts community.

Screenburn at SXSW is proud to be an event partner and we hope to see you there. RSVP is recommended.

Behind the Scenes of the SXSW Interactive Panel Selection Process - Revisited

Christine Auten — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:31:03 +0000

As of today we've announced roughly one third of our programming for 2010. As excited as we are about our evolving line up, we are also aware that there may still be questions about how we go about the selection process. One question we are noticing concerns our list of confirmed speakers.

I see a lot of high-profile speakers in the SXSW Interactive lineup this year. Are you consciously moving away from younger / newer voices?

Yes, we have selected proposals from many well-known speakers this year. In addition to providing a wealth of knowledge and experience, accomplished presenters help to build buzz, which, in turn, attracts fresh talent to the event. Our experience is that these higher-profile speakers also tend to have more skill at delivering a high-energy / compelling presentation. But, each year, we also strive to include many newer faces at the SXSW Interactive Festival -- and 2010 is no exception to this trend. If you are only seeing the high-profile names when you look at the 2010 lineup, then you probably aren't looking closely enough.

More questions? Please read the following FAQ for a little more insight into our decision-making process for 2010.

Why don't you announce the programming all at once? 
It would be great if we already knew all 400 titles for the 2010 event. But, "processing" (for lack of better term) all 2300 proposals submitted to the SXSW PanelPicker interface is a pretty gigantic task. Processing means that we weigh the public voting against the Advisory Board input against the staff input for every single proposal. In many ways, this works like one massive / extremely labor-intensive jigsaw puzzle. Moreover, accepting John Smith's proposal on "Web Design" slightly impacts if we accept David Jones' proposal on a similar topic.

How were the decisions made for which titles were accepted? 
The SXSW PanelPicker interface allows the general web community to vote (and comment) on which proposals they most want to see at the 2010 Interactive Festival. These community voting totals account for about 30% of the decision-making process. Meanwhile, the input of the SXSW Advisory Board (approximately 50 web professionals from across the United States) accounts for about 40% of the decision-making process. The other 30% of the decision-making process comes from the input of the SXSW staff.

Did the first batch of announcements represent the top 100 panel proposals? 
No, definitely not. We are saving many of the strongest proposals for the second and third batch of announcements.

When will the next batch of SXSW Interactive Festival programming announced? 
The next programming announcement is scheduled for Monday, November 9. This announcement will probably consist of about 60 total titles.

How many total sessions will you have at the 2010 event? 
For the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival, we expect to feature about 400 total sessions consisting of keynotes, panels, solo presentations, core conversations, book readings and salons covering a wide variety of geek-related concerns. Content is king!

When do you expect all accepted titles to be announced? 
We hope that about 90% of the programming lineup for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival will be finalized by mid-December. As for the remaining 10% of the programming, some of these slots won't be announced until mid-February. These last-minute announcements will largely be devoted to sessions that cover the most current technology stories / trends / ideas (i.e., developments that occur in December and January).

I read something about more technical / in-depth workshops at the 2010 event. When will SXSW announce these?
Yes, we will be adding a full schedule of more technical / more in-depth workshops to the slate of programming for 2010. Look for complete info on these workshops to be posted in late November.

Help, I am still confused on how the process. 
Please email us your questions and we will try to provide an accurate answer.

Tag cloud represents SXSW Interactive 2010 programming as of November 9, 2009 only.

ScreenBurn Business Incentives Available Through This Friday, November 13

Lindsay — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:12:29 +0000

Want to be a player at ScreenBurn at SXSW this coming March to leverage your business opportunities into the spotlight? The next sales discount deadline is fast approaching this coming Friday, November 13 and provides an excellent opportunity to get your company in line for success in 2010. ScreenBurn is the converging force that brings together business connections from SXSW Interactive, SXSW Music and SXSW Film with the video game world.

Getting involved with ScreenBurn gives your company prime access to the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade, and all SXSW Interactive and ScreenBurn panel programming and evening networking events. It also provides a platform to make a mark on the most forward thinking industry taste-makers and enthusiasts.

The ScreenBurn Arcade is the ideal place to launch your gaming products and services with international industry, international press and thousands of consumers looking to discover the latest developments.

Contact Lindsay Muse for more information on how to get your brand well connected at ScreenBurn at SXSW before the November 13 sale and registration deadline.

Photo of tournament players and onlookers in the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade courtesy of DN.

Registration Deadline November 13: Register Now and Save!

adrienne — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:00:29 +0000

Planning on attending SXSW 2010 this year? Well, stop sitting on your haunches and register by the end of the day Friday, November 13 to take advantage of discounted badge prices! You will save $230 on the walk-up rate for a Platinum badge, $125 for Film and $100 on all Gold, Music and Interactive badges.

Not only do you gain access to five days worth of SXSW Music showcases, Film screenings, ScreenBurn, daytime panels, Trade Show events and after parties at this steep discount, but you will be the envy of all who did not take advantage of the early registration discount rates. Badge prices increase after November 13 so register before Friday!

Second Batch of 2010 SXSW Interactive Programming Announced

Christine Auten — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 05:31:52 +0000

We are excited to reveal the next batch of confirmed programming for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival (titles linked to PanelPicker proposals after the jump). Today's announcement adds to the wealth of innovative, thought-provoking content that makes March in Austin such an inspirational experience.

With over 2300 proposals submitted to the SXSW PanelPicker for 2010, the selection process has been both challenging and exciting, and we aren't done yet! This batch combined with the 100+ titles announced last month make up only about one-third of the more than 400 sessions slated for the 2010 event. So stay tuned for more panels, Keynotes, solo and dual presentations, Core Conversations, Salons, Book Readings and, new for 2010, in-depth technical workshops... plus a few more surprises!

Also, check out our list of confirmed speakers for SXSW Interactive 2010 for some bright new talent and a few familiar faces.

If you want to see this amazing content live and in person, register now for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. Remember that admission fees increase at the end of the day on Friday, November 13.

10 Rules of Brand Fiction from Mad Men's @BettyDraper (Helen Klein Ross, Brand Fiction Factory)
AI 2010: Wall-e Or Rise Of The Machines? (Mason Hale, OneSpot)
ANYONE Can Create a Video Game! Twitter Revolution? (Michael Agustin, Gendai Games Inc.)
The Art of Eating In (Cathy Erway, Not Eating Out in New York) - BR
Balance is Bullshit (Stephanie Klein, Slinging Ink, LLC) - CC
Battledecks 2010 (Mike Monteiro, Mule Design)
Become Immortal: Understanding the Digital After Life (John Romano, The Digital Beyond) - CC
Big Brother in Your Brain: Neuroscience & Marketing (Eric Kogelschatz, Modernista!)
The Birth of Eye-Def Acting (Rick Bergman, AMD)
A Brave New Future for Book Publishing (Kevin Smokler, BookTour.com)
The Broke Diaries: Using Blogs And Twitter To Live Cheaply (Nichelle Stephens, Keeping Nickels)
Bruce Sterling Presentation (Bruce Sterling, Author)
Can the Real-Time Web Be Realized? (Brett Slatikin, Google)
Can Web 2.0 Kill the Real Estate Industry? (Lani Rosales, AgentGenius.com) - CC
Can You Copyright a Tweet? (Fred Benenson, Creative Commons)
Casting Crib Cutesploitation - Using Your Kids As Content (John Styn, Royal Pink Productions)
Coding for Pleasure: Developing Killer Spare-Time Apps (Adam Pash, Lifehacker)
Covering Big News on Small Budgets (Amanda Hirsch, amandahirsch.com)
Crowdfunding: How The SAfrican Community Financed Online Businesses (Eve Dmochowska, SeedFund)
Dangerous Curves: Hockey Sticks, Swine Flu And More (Rolf Skyberg, eBay)
Daniel Ek Tuesday Keynote Conversation (Daniel Ek, Spotify)
Data is Money: How Geeks are Changing Finance (Eric Olson, Olson's Observations)
Design, Collaboration, Pokemon: How Not to Offend People Globally (Chris Moeller, Yahoo! Inc.)
Do Evolutions In Design Thinking Promote Innovation? (Jim Nieters, Yahoo! Inc.)
Does My Sh*t-Talking Really Help Your Brand? (Ivan Askwith, Big Spaceship)
Doing it Wrong: Recently Possible Technology (Bre Pettis, Makerbot Industries)
Don't Move! Build a Startup Community Where You Live (Jeff Slobotski, Silicon Prairie News)
Drink Tea: Designing With Middle Eastern Customers (Kate Walser, CX Insights)
The Era of Crowdsourcing: Five Guiding Principles (Scott Belsky, Behance)
Freelance Isn't Free: The Twisted Economics of Writing Today (Jeff Beckham, Austinist) - CC
From Right-to-Left: Entrepreneurship & the Middle East (Sacha Tueni, Vodafone International)
Funding Your Projects from the Crowd (Perry Chen, Kickstarter)
How Sci-Fi Shapes the Internet (Adria Richards, butyoureagirl.com)
How to Rawk SXSW (Min Jung Kim, minjungkim.com)
Influence and Innovate: Transforming Media Education (Cindy Royal, Texas State University) - CC
Innovation Overseas – The European Startup Environment (Peter Robinett, Bubble Foundry)
Is App-vertising the Answer (Garrick Schmitt, Razorfish)
Is Too Much Math Killing Marketing? (Mike Teasdale, Harvest Digital)
It All Changed in An Instant: More Six-Word Memoirs (Larry Smith, SMITH Magazine) - BR
James Fowler Presentation (James Fowler, Author)
Jaron Lanier Presentation (Jaron Lanier, Author)
Journalism Next: Thriving in the Digital Age (Mark Briggs, Journalism 2.0) - BR
Judaism 2.0 (Justin Oberman, Sefer Liat) - CC
Kittens & Porn: You Choose the Winner (Bud Caddell, Undercurrent)
Maps, Books, Spimes, Paper: Post-Digital Media Design (Chris Heathcote, meta loca
Memory Matters! How Do Elephants Do It? (Mark Channon, markchannon.com) - CC
Merch: The Other White Meat Of Monetization (Joel Bush, Amplifier)
Migrating to Cloud Architectures and Its Best Practices (Jinesh Varia, Amazon Web Services)
Millionaire or Artist? How About Both? (Hugh MacLeod, gapingvoid)
Mind Control: Psychology for the Web (Ben Scofield, Viget Labs)
Networking at a Multi-Day Conference (Thom Singer, Author / Speaker) - CC
Nina Hartley: Porn Star, Sex Educator, Social Networker (Nina Hartley, nina.com)
Online News of Tomorrow (Andrew Huff, Gapers Block)
Open Collaboration Between Scientists, Communities and the Unknown (Ariel Waldman, Spacehack.org)
Persuasive Design: Encouraging Your Users To Do What You Want Them To! (Andy Budd, Clearleft Ltd)
Results Only Work Environment (ROWE): Why It Works (Nikki Haffey, OpenSpace Coworking )
‘Seed Combinators’: Startup Incubators 2.0 (Marc Nathan, Houston Technology Center)
Selling Your Milk When the Cow is Free (Jeff Eaton, Lullabot)
Shameless Self Promotion Without Looking Like an @#$%^&! (Twanna Hines, Funky Brown Chick) - CC
Sick Clicks: The Evolution of Health Online (Caley Van Cleave, FeelGoodNow.com)
Social Business By Design (David Armano, Dachis Group)
StoryCorps 2.0: Social Networking Meets Storytelling (Suneel Gupta, The Kahani Movement)
Twittering Through Chemo - Survivors Unite (Brian Simpson, Roger Smith Hotel) - CC
Upstarts! GenY Entrepreneurs Are Rocking the Business World (Donna Fenn, Inc. Magazine) - BR
User's Guide to Democratized Media (Dan Gillmor, Author / Teacher) - BR
Web Series 2.0: Big Campaigns on Digital Dollars (Chris Hanada, Retrofit Films)
What Can Carl Sagan Teach Us About The Web? (Mark Trammell, Twitter)
Who Needs Venture Capital? (Mike Trotzke, SproutBox)
Who’s Nibbling at Your Cookie? (Frank Addante, Rubicon Project)
World Cup 2010: Engaging U.S. Soccer Fans Online (Chris Hall, U.S. Soccer Federation)

Updated: 11.9.09
All subject to change.

CC - Core Conversations
BR - Book Readings

Photo of 2009 Interactive panel room courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

November 9 Session Announcement Just Around the Corner

Christine Auten — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:19:22 +0000

Monday, November 9, we will be announcing our second batch of confirmed sessions for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. This batch, combined with the sessions announced in October, represent roughly one third of the more than 400 panels, dual and solo presentations, Core Conversations, Salons and more we have in store for next spring. We expect to have about 90% of the total programming confirmed by mid-December, with the remaining 10% (devoted to sessions that cover the most current technology stories / trends / ideas) to be announced in early February.

Most of these sessions come from our innovative online interface, the SXSW PanelPicker, that allows our community to submit ideas and then comment and vote on which sessions they would like to see as part of the 2010 event. Those votes count for about 30% of the decision making process, with input from the more than 50 industry professionals that make up the SXSW Interactive Advisory Board, and guidance from the SXSW staff, making up the other 70%.

This year the PanelPicker received more than 2300 submissions, making the this process a pretty huge task. As we assemble these many pieces into the our 2010 lineup we have the challenge of creating an exciting and balanced slate of sessions. We are releasing these titles in batches as we make our decisions, but we still have some surprises to come. Stay tuned to the website in late November when we announce our first-ever series of more technical, more in depth workshop programming.

Photo of 2009 panel audience courtesy of Randy Ho.

Enjoy the Nightlife at the SXSW Web Awards Ceremony

andrew — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:08:51 +0000

After a long day of learning the futures of the business, media and tech industries, among others, there's no better way to wind down than at the great Interactive Evening Events. And the premier Evening Event during SXSW Interactive is the SXSW Web Awards Ceremony.

The centerpiece of the SXSW Interactive Festival's slate of evening events, the annual SXSW Web Awards Ceremony is where the winners from each of the competition categories will be announced — along with the Best of Show and People's Choice Award. The Web Awards are preceded by the Official SXSW Web Awards Pre-Party, just a little something beforehand to get you ready for the night's festivities.

If you have created and / or designed a great web site in 2009, make sure you enter it into the Web Awards competition and you might be taking home a coveted Web Award at the Ceremony.

The 13th Annual SXSW Interactive Web Awards are presented by Adobe Systems. And a Supporting Sponsorship is provided by Convio.

Photo of 2009 Web Awards finalists Jono Stark and Chris Erickson at the Web Awards Ceremony press area courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

2010 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW: Entry Deadline Is December 4

raquel — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:24:21 +0000

Take advantage of the opportunity to showcase your emerging technology product or service in front of industry leaders by participating in the 2010 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW. Accelerator takes place on March 15-16 as a part of the SXSW Interactive Festival, during which you can improve your product launch, attract venture capitalists, polish your elevator pitch, receive media exposure, build brand awareness, network, socialize and experience all that SXSW Interactive has to offer. The deadline to register is December 4, less than one month away, so enter today!

Photo of Kevin Lim presenting at Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW 2009 courtesy of Mary Sledd / www.marysledd.com.

And the 2009 Web Award Goes To... Hulu

Christine Auten — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:45:56 +0000

Category: Film / TV - Sites related to actors, television, films and the film industry, as well as destinations that offer streaming video content.

Winner: Hulu

Eric Feng of Hulu talks with Kelly Willis on the red carpet 12th annual Web Awards Ceremony about the hugely popular online video website which had just celebrated its first year. Feng chalks the success of the site up to good timing.

Be sure to check back with the SXSW YouTube Channel for more video highlights from the 2009 event. And if you think you might have an award-worthy site, don't miss your chance to enter the 13th annual Web Awards competition. Visit the Web Awards page for more information about how you can be a part of this celebrated event.

It's in the Bag

Katie — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:37:24 +0000

Effectively distinguishing your brand at SXSW is a highly sought after goal. One of the best, not to mention unique, ways to achieve this goal is through inserts in the Interactive Big Bag. Adding to the obvious value inherent in this opportunity is the generous 10% discount that lasts until November 13th on all marketing inserts.

These inserts will reach over 10,000 Interactive registrants in 2010. Given the stated goal of sustainability at SXSW, this marketing opportunity is completely customizable to ensure as little environmental impact as possible. In order to help ensure this sustainability, we recommend that bag inserts be something that registrants can put to use. Thus also ensuring greater exposure for your message.

From eye-catching flash drives to clever koozies, this flexible marketing campaign is an easy path towards branding success at SXSW. Contact Katie King, our Interactive Sales Representative, today to learn how to harness the creative power of Big Bag inserts. Act quickly, the 10% deadline will pass before you know it.

2009 Interactive Big Bag photo courtesy of Ran An.

Three Exciting Competitions To Get You Involved With SXSW in 2010

Christine Auten — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:30:16 +0000

Want to leverage the buzz of SXSW to showcase your new media talents? Then get involved with one of our three exciting competitions for the 2010 event. You have until Friday December 4 to enter your amazing video game idea into the ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition. Enter your cutting edge new product or service into Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator before Friday, December 4. And don't miss your chance to be a part of the 13th annual SXSW Interactive Web Awards by entering your innovative new website by December 18.

All three competitions offer the opportunity for participants to show off their talents in front of the many industry heavyweights and new media entrepreneurs who are attracted to SXSW Interactive every year. Help make 2010 the best year yet by becoming invoked in one of these events!

Photo of 2009 Web Awards winner Ali Felski courtesy of Mary Sledd.

Next SXSW Registration Deadline is November 13: Pay Now and Save!

hugh — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:37:29 +0000

Friday, November 13 serves as the $450 registration deadline for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. In other words, pay your fees by the end of the day next Friday, and you will save $100 on the walk-up price for the event next spring. $450 gets you five days of keynotes, panels, Trade Show, ScreenBurn, evening events and assorted other activities that will leave you completely inspired (and just a little bit exhausted).

Speaking of panels, be sure to check back on the SXSW website on Monday, November 9 -- which is the day the second batch of confirmed 2010 programming will be announced. Click here to see the the 100+ sessions that were revealed in mid-October.

Insert to Win

Peter — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:01:08 +0000

Effectively distinguishing your brand at SXSW is a highly sought after goal. One of the best, not to mention unique ways to achieve this goal is through inserts in the Interactive Big Bag. Adding to the obvious value inherent in this opportunity is the generous 10% discount that lasts until November 13th on all marketing inserts.

These inserts will reach over 10,000 Interactive registrants in 2010. Given the stated goal of sustainability at SXSW, this marketing opportunity is completely customizable to ensure as little environmental impact as possible. In order to help ensure this sustainability, we recommend that bag inserts be something that registrants can use. Thus also ensuring greater exposure for your message.

See & Be Seen In The ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade

Lindsay — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:12:15 +0000

The ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade is not only the space to see the coolest new video game developments, but also a great way to make a big splash for your business at SXSW next March.

What makes ScreenBurn at SXSW such a high-visibility location at SXSW? The ScreenBurn Arcade will be located in a heavily-trafficked area on the first floor of the Austin Convention Center in Exhibit Hall #2, just around the corner from SXSW registration and badge pick-up. At the 2009 event, the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade was open to the over 10,741 Interactive registrants, 1991 Gold registrants, 3,490 Platinum registrants, and 4,000 media who made the Austin Convention Center a networking epicenter. In addition to that, the Arcade is also FREE and open to the public, thereby creating a unique space to receive quality consumer, industry and press viability for your brand.

Whether you're launching a new product or demo, or want to make a lasting impression on SXSW attendees, ScreenBurn at SXSW gives you the platform to shine. Contact Lindsay Muse to advance your business to the next level.

2009 ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade photo courtesy of J.S.

Tim Westergren of Pandora Chosen as a HuffPost Game Changer In Media

sarah — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:16:53 +0000

The Huffington Post has just announced their candidates for the Ultimate Media Game Changer as part of their ongoing campaign to find 100 people who are using new media to reshape their industries. We were pleased to note yet another past SXSW Interactive speaker, Tim Westergren, on the list. Westergren, founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Pandora, spoke on the 2006 SXSW Interactive panel "The Future of Radio" and discussed how conventional communication models should be modified to expand the listener's role in programming their own radio experience.

The convergence between radio and the internet has been widely discussed at SXSW Interactive with panels like "FM 2.0: The Future of Internet Radio," which explored the pros and cons of radio in the internet space in 2008, and the recently announced panel "How the Internet is Disrupting the Concert Industry 2010," bringing fresh perspective to a hotly-debated topic.

Be sure to keep up with the Interactive panels page as we continue to announce more speakers and programming.

Photo source: 2006 SXSW Interactive site.

The Next Announcement of 2010 SXSW Interactive Programming

Christine Auten — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:11:21 +0000

On October 18 we announced the first batch of confirmed panels and solo presentations for SXSW Interactive 2010. These sessions, representing approximately one third of the more than 300 panels, solo presentations, Core Conversations, Salons, Book Readings and more planned for the 2010 event, cover a wide range of geek-related themes from design and programming to business models and community building.

And there are many more to come. We are gearing up to announce the next batch of confirmed sessions. Stay tuned right here on Monday, November 9 for at least 50 more sessions covering business, video games, mobile development, design thinking, marketing and much more.

2009 Panel Image courtesy of Courtney Dudley.

Spotify's Daniel Ek to Keynote SXSW Interactive on Tuesday, March 16

andrew — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:02:11 +0000

SXSW Interactive is excited to announce that Daniel Ek will participate in a keynote interview at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, March 16. The 26-year-old CEO and co-founder of the innovative online music service Spotify, Ek has been characterized as a serial entrepreneur. He started his first company in 1997 at the age of 14 and has also served in leadership roles at Stardoll and Advertigo.

Spotify's emergence in Europe proves that new media technology can provide new, and legal, solutions to the challenges currently faced by traditional content providers.

"SXSW combines two of the topics that I'm most passionate about, music & technology," comments Ek. "I'm pleased to be a part of next year's event and look forward to some great programming."

Keynote Speakers for Sunday, March 14 and Monday, March 15 will be announced shortly.

Official Press Image of Daniel Ek Courtesy of Spotify.

Follow the Crowd to SXSW

Peter — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:30:01 +0000

Early action ensures savings. Until November 13th, you can save 10% on your Trade Show stand. Intelligent industry insiders know that the SXSW Trade Show is the most important event of the business year. It is the one spot where they can rub elbows with the brightest lights, where the present can meet the future. In addition to the beneficial contacts made, these companies recognize the economic importance of promptly securing their spot in the Trade Show: both money and time are saved, allowing ample time for effectively planning their presence at SXSW.

Contact our Sales Department today to find out how easy it is to reserve your spot among the likes of these industry leaders and innovators at SXSW Music, Film + Interactive 2010:

Digital Mission - UK, Sounds Australia, Sounds From Spain, Reeperbahn Festival, BandCentral Ltd, City of The Hague, Korg USA, Flock, Gelaskins, ClientShow, CSIdentity, Google, EyeCandy, Film Florida, Nevada Film, Iron Mountain, Montana Film SAGIndie, Audio-Technica, Koss Stereophones, Jakprints, Canadian Independent Music Association, Memphis Music
Photo of the Music Trade Show floor courtesy of Jenn Soto

The SXSW Pumpkin Smackdown Lives On!

Christine Auten — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:26:53 +0000

Every year, the crew at SXSW celebrate the true meaning of Halloween with a cutthroat competition known as The Pumpkin Smackdown. This tradition has seen such gourdy creations as Amy Pumpkin-Winehouse (pre-rehab) and a gourd-o-rific version of Daniel Johnston's Jeremiah the Innocent. One year the ghouls in the Registration and Housing departments recreated the Austin Convention Center during SXSW, complete with tiny gourd-versions of the staff hanging out in their most likely places.

Last year, the Interactive creation lured innocent bystanders to put on headphones and peer into a tiny hole in an otherwise innocuous pumpkin - only to be Rick-Rolled by a lit image of the crooner while being serenaded by the 80's super-hit on an attached .mp3 player.

This year the competition took on an even more frightening, gastrointestinal aspect when the Sales Team challenged the Tech Team to a pumpkin pie eating contest. Between the pumpkin pie and the pumpkin creations, pumpkins everywhere were cowering in fear!

Who emerged victorious in these fierce battles? Pictures speak louder than words!

Happy Halloween from all of us here at SXSW! We can't wait to scare you... er... SEE you in March.

SXSW Pumpkin Smackdow Photos Courtesy of Tammy Lynn Gilmore.

Where Are They Now: 2009 Accelerator Winner Popcuts

raquel — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:54:49 +0000

While the music industry has seen many changes over the years, the model of revenue has only recently undergone a transformation, with the rise of music-related technologies. Popcuts, 2009 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW winner in Online Music-Related Technologies, is helping to catalyze this transformation.

Popcuts executives had the opportunity to showcase their innovative product in front of industry experts and judges at Accelerator and received incredible feedback on how to bring greater value to their customers.

"We were challenged by the judges to make things simpler and clearer to our audience, so we've turned our focus to features that pop, ones that fans get, and ones they'll blog or brag about," said CEO Kevin Mateo Lim.

At Popcuts, users can listen to up-and-coming artists and pick which ones they think are going to make it. By buying a song, the user stakes a share on it, and the user gets rewarded every time it’s bought afterward. They also offer users the opportunity to donate rewards to a charity or nonprofit. As a leader in socially-driven music distribution, Popcuts may change the model of revenue as we know it.

Technology companies wanting to showcase their innovative product or service should visit the Accelerator website for more information on how to get involved with Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010.

Photo of 2009 Accelerator Winner Popcuts courtesy of Heather Kennedy.

frog design Returns to Host the 2010 SXSW Interactive Opening Party

sarah — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:47:05 +0000

SXSW Interactive is pleased to welcome back frog design as the host of the 2010 SXSW Interactive Opening Party. Join us at the Mexican American Cultural Center (600 River Street, Austin, TX 78701) from 8:00 PM to 11:00PM on Saturday, March 14 for what has become a legendary SXSW Interactive event.

Featuring a surprising lineup of uniquely Austin entertainment, as well as the opportunity to rub elbows with some of the most creative minds in emerging technology, this event offers the perfect opportunity for Platinum, Gold and Interactive registrants to unwind after a long day of panel programming. We look forward to seeing you there!

Stay tuned to our Interactive Parties page as a wide array of evening events are still being announced. And don't forget to take advantage of the latest early registration discount.

Interested in hosting a SXSW Interactive party in 2010? Contact Katie King at katie@sxsw.com.

Photo of the 2009 SXSW Interactive Opening Party courtesy of Chad Norman.

10 Scary Things that Will Happen to You at SXSW Interactive

Christine Auten — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:41:45 +0000

Halloween 2009 has arrived and dentists everywhere are celebrating. To commemorate all things October 31, we present a list of ghoul and scary things that will happen to you when you attend the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival.

1) New Media Monster-ization. Many people who come to the event undergo an immediate and uncontrollable transformation, losing their guise of normalcy and assuming the body of an all-knowing new media monster.

2) Crazy Ideas. Witnessing the incredible content at the event also tends to produce temporary (or even long-term) insanity. Symptoms of this condition are an influx of unreasonably brilliant ideas on working smarter and living better.

3) Unexplained Financial Activity. Some SXSW Interactive attendees report bizarre upticks in their bottom line as a result of connecting with heretofore unknown investors who often mysteriously appear at the event.

4) Channeling Voices From the Future. After a few days at SXSW Interactive, you will find yourself overtaken by the strange desire to add the "ability" suffix to all words -- socialability, portability, scalability, profitability, android-ability, etc etc.

5) Irrational Lack of Sleep. Attending the event often produces a zombie-like insomnia where otherwise normal people stay awake into the wee hours of the morning, unable to sleep because of the non-stop intellectual stimulation.

6) Trade Show Lust. Another bizarre activity that occurs in March in Austin is that relatively normal people suddenly feel an unexplained urge spend long periods of time talking with industry innovators in the SXSW Film and Interactive Trade Show. Weird!

7) Joystick Fever. Also hard to explain is the undeniable pull of the ScreenBurn Arcade, drawing thousands of attendees to the hands-on playspace where they experience some of the world's coolest new video game technology.

8) Elephantiasis of Contact List. SXSW registrants often experience a frighteningly large growth in their social network, adding new professional contacts as well as friends from across the United States and around the world.

9) Adulation of Icons. Encountering the people you have admired from afar for many years can be horrifyingly cool. Yet this kind of interaction occurs regularly at SXSW and no incidences of frostbite have been reported

10) Uncontrollable Hysteria. Many scary evening events occur during SXSW Interactive. At the SXSW Web Awards Ceremony, people often find themselves laughing uncontrollably at the witty banter of the entertaining emcee.

Image Courtesy of Christine Auten

Another Reason To Go Gold in 2010 - The “Excellence in Title Design” Award

Christine Auten — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:03:54 +0000

Running concurrent with SXSW Interactive, the SXSW Film Conference and Festival offers the unique opportunity for filmmakers and film enthusiasts to become immersed in the art and business of independent film. The convergence of industry leaders, new and established talent and smart audiences make the Film portion of SXSW as attractive to digital professionals as it is to filmmakers, and the Gold Badge option gives attendees access to both exciting events.

Now there's another reason for Interactive registrants to upgrade to a Gold Badge. New for 2010, the SXSW Film Conference and Festival has announced the “Excellence in Title Design” competition. The only one of its kind at any major film festival, this competition aims to discover the very best in contemporary title sequence design and is open internationally to all title sequences that exist as part of a completed film finished in 2009 or later.

Entries will be judged by an esteemed jury of experts from the worlds of film and design. The Design Awards will also include the "Excellence in Poster Design" category. For more information on the 2010 SXSW Film Awards click here or e-mail film@sxsw.com.

SXSW Interactive Alums Lead the New Media Revolution

sarah — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:34:55 +0000

The Huffington Post is continuing on in their mission to find 100 people who are using new media to change the world, and this week asked, who are the ultimate game changers in business? SXSW Interactive is proud to boast finalists Tony Hsieh and Mena Trott as past speakers.

Hsieh, CEO of Zappos, delivered the 2009 SXSW Interactive opening remarks and discussed how doing business online doesn’t have to be impersonal. Hsieh explained how Zappos’ strategy of providing fervent attention to customer service has earned them fanatical devotion and fueled their growth.

Mena Trott, who we first saw in 2002 as a SXSW Interactive Web Awards winner for “Best Weblog,” has since returned as the Co-Founder and president of Six Apart. Six Apart, the company behind Movable Type, Typepad and Vox, is the world’s leading blogging software company and enables millions of individuals and media companies to express themselves.

The Huffington Post will continue to announce finalists in the remaining categories throughout this month and we are pleased to see so many SXSW Interactive alums being recognized as leaders in the new media revolution.

Photo of Tony Hsieh at SXSW Interactive 2009 courtesy of Peter Tsai.

ScreenBurn: Connect & Converge at SXSW Interactive

Lindsay — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:29:26 +0000

ScreenBurn at SXSW seamlessly merges the industries of SXSW Interactive, SXSW Music, and SXSW Film with the video game world.

What makes ScreenBurn at SXSW so unique? It's the diverse range of digital and new media professionals that attend SXSW and the business connections that thrive between ever-converging industries. Because ScreenBurn at SXSW is a part of SXSW Interactive, your Interactive registration grants you access to all aspects of the SXSW Interactive and ScreenBurn panels programming and amazing networking events. With a new ScreenBurn at SXSW B2B Panel Track and other industry career events in place for this March, SXSW is the place to take the next crucial step forward in your industry.

The ScreenBurn Arcade is also the ideal place to leverage new gaming products and services, as SXSW Interactive is a hub for international press and bloggers covering the latest developments in technology. Not only are thousands of consumers and gaming press in attendance, but so are SXSW Platinum, Gold and Interactive press and registrants. Whether you're ready to bring your company into the spotlight, hiring, or looking to make the next step in your career, there's no better place to start than ScreenBurn at SXSW.

Contact Lindsay Muse for more information on how to get connected at ScreenBurn at SXSW.

ScreenBurn Arcade photo courtesy of Peter Tsai.

The Circus Mashimus Returns to SXSW 2010!

russell — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:55:50 +0000

Mashery is bringing the colorful big top back to SXSW Interactive this March. Last year, this popular lounge destination was a main attraction on the first level of the convention center. Offering up daily complimentary happy hours, tasty snacks and API mash-ups, The Circus Mashimus provided a fun respite for networking and noshing. Stop by on your way to a keynote or after visiting the Screen Burn Arcade - this lounge will be located on level 1, same spot as last year. We can't wait to see what they have in store this March! Interested in sponsoring a lounge during Interactive? Contact Katie King(katie@sxsw.com) to learn more.

SXSW Panel Decision-Making Process: Behind the Scenes

hugh — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:30:03 +0000

We are really excited about the first batch of panel programming that we announced via the SXSW website last week. However, we understand that there is still a lot of confusion on the methods behind this programming announcement. Please read the following FAQ for a little more insight into our decision-making process for 2010.

Why don't you announce the programming all at once?
It would be great if we already knew all 400 titles for the 2010 event. But, "processing" (for lack of better term) all 2300 proposals submitted to the SXSW PanelPicker interface is a pretty gigantic task. Processing means that we weigh the public voting against the Advisory Board input against the staff input for every single proposal. In many ways, this works like one massive / extremely labor-intensive jigsaw puzzle. Moreover, accepting John Smith's proposal on "Web Design" slightly impacts if we accept David Jones' proposal on a similar topic.

How were the decisions made for which titles were accepted?
The SXSW PanelPicker interface allows the general web community to vote (and comment) on which proposals they most want to see at the 2010 Interactive Festival. These community voting totals account for about 30% of the decision-making process. Meanwhile, the input of the SXSW Advisory Board (approximately 50 web professionals from across the United States) accounts for about 40% of the decision-making process. The other 30% of the decision-making process comes from the input of the SXSW staff.

Did the first batch of announcements represent the top 100 panel proposals?
No, definitely not. We are saving many of the strongest proposals for the second and third batch of announcements.

When will the next batch of SXSW Interactive Festival programming announced?
The next programming announcement is scheduled for Monday, November 9. This announcement will probably consist of about 60 total titles.

How many total sessions will you have at the 2010 event?
For the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival, we expect to feature about 400 total sessions consisting of keynotes, panels, solo presentations, core conversations, book readings and salons covering a wide variety of geek-related concerns. Content is king!

When do you expect all accepted titles to be announced?
We hope that about 90% of the programming lineup for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival will be finalized by mid-December. As for the remaining 10% of the programming, some of these slots won't be announced until mid-February. These last-minute announcements will largely be devoted to sessions that cover the most current technology stories / trends / ideas (i.e., developments that occur in December and January).

Help, I am still confused on how the process.
Please e-mail your questions to us and we will try to provide an accurate answer.

2009 SXSW Interactive panel photo courtesy of Chelsea Bashford.

Environments for Humans Presents the jQuery Summit on November 19

sarah — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:51:54 +0000

Environments for Humans is hosting the next event of their Summit Series, The jQuery Summit, on November 19! The Summit Series is a round of one-day virtual conferences that bring together expert speakers to explore one topic from different angles. The jQuery Summit will explore the framework of JavaScript and is perfect for those who want to incorporate more JavaScript into their designs.

Eight speakers, including John Resig and Dave McFarland, are coming together to share their insights and experiences in working with JavaScript. Don’t miss your chance to build your skill set without leaving your computer. With new presentations beginning at the top of every hour, the jQuery Summit is ideal for those who want to deepen their understanding of this powerful JavaScript framework. Register now and join us online from 9 am to 6 pm CT for the jQuery Summit.

And the 2009 Web Award Goes To... We Tell Stories

Christine Auten — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:44:29 +0000

Category: Experimental - These are cutting-edge and trend-setting destinations that are pushing the envelope and challenging our perceptions of the web.

Category: Best of Show - The judges' favorite finalist website from the competition.

Winner: We Tell Stories

Adrian Hon, Claire Bateman, Dan Hon and Andrew Hayward stopped on the red carpet of the 12th annual Web Awards Ceremony to thank the many authors and developers who made their online storytelling project a success. Ryan Stewart from Adobe presented the site with its second prize for the evening, Best of Show, which celebrates the judges' overall favorite site from the competition.

Check Out the Washington DC MGFest 2009

sarah — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:24:17 +0000

This year’s Washington DC Motion Graphics Festival 2009 will be held November 19-22 and will showcase explosive artists and motion picture creators including: Nine Inch Nails, David Byrne, Chuck D of Public Enemy, KRS-One, Addictive TV and more.

As part of the multi-city Motion Graphics Festival, DC MGFest presents a wide array of eye-opening experiences for motion, sound and code designers. With a "Persuasion in Media Panel," hands-on workshops and a creative remix party DC MGFest has something for everyone. Come experience 4 full days of workshops, conferences and presentations featuring genre-defining work.

Experience the Fun for Free at the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade

Christine Auten — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:16:06 +0000

During SXSW there are many opportunities for the public to experience the fun for free. Open from Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 14, on the first floor of the Austin Convention Center, the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade offers the public the chance to mingle and network with gaming industry Platinum, Gold and Interactive registrants and try out the latest developments in the gaming world for free.

Past ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade exhibitors include Gendai Games, DELL Alienware, Frag Dolls, Ubisoft, GameTap, Independent Game Developers Association (IGDA), Seagate Technology, Hewlett Packard Voo Doo, Wikia Gaming, Wizards of the Coast of Hasbro, Sprint, Verizon FiOS and GirlGamer, just to name a few. Contact Lindsay Muse to add your name to this list today!

ScreenBurn Arcade 2009 photo courtesy of Peter Tsai.

And The 2009 Web Award Goes To... Why So Serious? Dark Knight Alternate Reality Game

Christine Auten — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:18:32 +0000

Category: Games - The online destinations that help make your life a lot more fun.

Winner: Why So Serious? Dark Knight Alternate Reality Game

(View this video on youtube)

Over the summer we released a series of video interviews with 2009 Web Awards winners. Now they're back, and you can catch the next installment on the SXSW YouTube Channel! SXSW's Kelly Willis talked with Michael Borys and Susan Bonds of 42 Entertainment on the red carpet at the 12th annual SXSW Web Awards Ceremony about their innovative ARG that involved not only 40 websites, but went out into the real world through mobile, print and live events, making it a truly transmedia experience.

If you think you might have an award-worthy site, don't miss your chance to enter the 13th annual Web Awards competition. Visit the Web Awards page for more information about how you can be a part of this celebrated event.

Microsoft BizSpark SXSW Accelerator: Meet the 2010 Advisory Board Part II

raquel — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:12:57 +0000

The Advisory Board for Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator is a group of carefully chosen industry leaders. These individuals contribute considerably to the success of the event, and we greatly appreciate their time and dedication. Three weeks ago we introduced the first batch of Advisory Board members, and the following is a list of of the remaining high-profile leaders from the technology sphere involved in this groundbreaking event.

Technology companies wanting to showcase their innovative product / service should visit the Accelerator page for more information on how to get involved with Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010.

Doug Kreeger
Doug Kreeger Marketing
Early Adopter
www.alternet.org

David Hornik
August Capital
www.ventureblog.com
VC, Pontificator, Conference Organizer

Scott Porad
Cheezburger Network
http://scottporad.com
Serial Web Startup Builder

Thomas Ball
Austin Ventures
Entrepreneur turned VC

Frank Gruber
AOL / AIM
http://twitter.com/frankgruber
technology evangelist & entrepreneur

Paige Craig
Angel Investor
Adrenaline-fueled Angel

Sloane Berrent
The Causemopolitan
Humanitarian, Cause Campaign Activist

Tobin Watkinson
MySpace Records
music lover / tech junkie

Lisa Stone
BlogHer
Social Media Expert

Lisa Voldeng
Sugarlab Corporation / Ultrafuture
futurist, strategist, media creator

Photo of 2009 Accelerator showcase judges courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

New For 2010 - SXSW Interactive Programming Themes

Christine Auten — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:05:45 +0000

For 2010, SXSW Interactive will be dividing all our daytime programming into easy-to-recognize themes, representing different aspects of the digital world. Within each theme you will find all the different types of sessions we offer from Panels and Core Conversations to Dual and Solo Presentations.

Click here to see a preliminary list of the first batch of confirmed sessions divided by theme. Visit the panels page for an alphabetical listing of these sessions or the confirmed speakers page to see a current list of speakers for the 2010 event.

Photo of SXSW Interactive 2009 panel audience is courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Gary Vaynerchuk Shares His Secrets to Success

sarah — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:56:23 +0000

Last night, SXSW Interactive co-sponsored Gary Vaynerchuk's appearance at BookPeople, supporting his new book, "Crush It: Why NOW Is the Time to Cash In On Your Passion." Vaynerchuk spoke at SXSW Interactive 2009 and is on board to speak in 2010. SXSW Interactive also gave away a free registration to one lucky winner, Michael Olivier (pictured).

Vaynerchuk discussed the growth of his online brand, attributing much of it to his utilization of new media outlets. He summarized the keys to a successful web venture as being the ability to provide valuable content and customer service. Put simply, if you care about the content your producing and it’s consumers, you can’t lose.

He spoke about Twitter and Facebook as indispensable tools that allow for advertisement to now exist as a two-way conversation between a business and its consumers. His 2010 SXSW Interactive panel will mirror his business model and rather than being a presentation panel, it will entirely consist of audience Q & A’s. At this appearance, Vaynerchuk also announced exciting news, "Crush It" has just reached #2 on The New York Times Best Seller List.

Photo of Michael Olivier, who won a FREE 2010 SXSW Interactive registration at BookPeople on Wednesday night, by Tammy Lynn Gilmore.

SXSW Interactive Partners with SlideRocket for 2010

sarah — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:48:38 +0000

SXSW Interactive is excited to be partnering with online presentation software maker SlideRocket for the 2010 Interactive festival.

SlideRocket integrates authoring, asset management, delivery and analytic tools in a single hosted environment that allows you to quickly create great looking presentations. Sliderocket's presentation platform will be used by SXSW for all of the Accelerator competition showcases and all SXSW Interactive speakers will have the opportunity to use the software.

Founded in 2006, SlideRocket differentiates itself from other presentation products by being web-based. This allows for third parties to build external plugins that can then be added to the SlideRocket community marketplace where content and services can be bought, traded or made available for free. SlideRocket is committed to providing the best presentations through innovative and compelling software-as-a-service and we are excited that this new partnership will provide dynamic Interactive presentations at SXSW 2010.

ScreenBurn Attracts Mass Media to Gaming

andrew — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:37:08 +0000

Doing business at ScreenBurn at SXSW gives your company the chance to build traction and make contacts with the mainstream press outlets covering the latest developments in digital media.

G4tv, AOL Games, GTTV / SpikeTV (GameTrailers.com / MTV Networks), Gaming Trend and the Wall Street Journal's Gaming Section are just some of the official press who charge the floor of the ScreenBurn Arcade to interview industry leaders showing off the hottest demos and tournaments.

With all of the registered press in town for SXSW Music, SXSW Film, SXSW Interactive and ScreenBurn at SXSW, the Arcade receives prime coverage from IFC, Rolling Stone and Wired Magazine, giving cross-over press opportunities that make ScreenBurn unique among gaming events.

Take a look at some of the past press coverage of ScreenBurn at SXSW:

The ScreenBurn Coordinator works hand-in-hand with each exhibitor to help get the word out about their products through SXSW's official media outlets leading up-to and during the festival. Past exhibitors like Michael Agustin from Gendai Games raves about participating in ScreenBurn and leveraging the many business opportunities brought about by press coverage garnered at SXSW.

Contact Lindsay Muse for more information on how to get involved in ScreenBurn at SXSW.

Photo: G4tv's live video coverage of ScreenBurn at SXSW 2009.

Got Designs?

andrew — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:55:19 +0000

Share your creativity with SXSW! We've partnered with 99designs, the largest community for crowdsourced design, to host a special design competition running for ten days starting today, October 21 through October 30. Enter your own design or check back in a few weeks to vote for your favorite.

The winner is the design with the most votes. The winning design will receive a cash prize and be made into a t-shirt sold through SXSW Merch. 99designs connects designers from around the world with cool design projects and clients.

FITC Takes Over Amsterdam on February 22 - 23

sarah — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:02:56 +0000

FITC Amsterdam is a two-day festival exploring digital technology and media art. Sponsored by Adobe, this event consists of two days of presentations and panels covering the creative, technical, and business aspects of Flash and digital media. Confirmed presenters include some of the most well respected people and companies in the industry, such as MK12, Scott Hansen, UVA, Champagne Valentine and many more. Check the speaker page for the complete and up-to-date list.

This world-class event is the perfect opportunity to meet and talk to people who share your passion for this industry, and all in the amazing city of Amsterdam. Whether you’re a flash designer, motion graphic artist, or just someone with an interest in Flash and digital media, this is an event that you will never forget! Register today and join us for two days of workshops, international presenters, incredible networking opportunities and of course, the infamous FITC parties.

Now On the SXSW YouTube Channel "Creative: Show the Path, Not the Destination"

Christine Auten — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:15:22 +0000

On Saturday, March 14, 2009 Jim Coudal, Coudal Partners, Brendan Dawes and filmmaker Gary Hustwit spoke to SXSW Interactive attendees about creativity. You can now catch excerpts from this dynamic discussion on the SXSW YouTube Channel. In their panel, "Creative: Show the Path, Not the Destination", each share their personal insights into the subject of creating more involving, entertaining and successful projects by structuring them in a way that encourages the audience to be a key part of the process of discovery.

Stay tuned right here, and on the SXSW YouTube Channel for more great videos from the 2009 SXSW Interactive Festival. And to see more of this kind of content live and in person at the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival, be sure to take advantage of the next early registration discount before November 13.

Stephanie Gerbig Wins FREE Registration for SXSW Interactive

hugh — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:22:56 +0000

Kudos to Stephanie Gerbig who has won herself a free registration for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. When asked to describe herself, Gerbig says "I'm now on a quest to work for me. Writing, the internet, and marketing are my true loves. And I'm a social media maven. Mix all that together and that makes an online marketing consultant and copywriter."

Gerbig won the free registration by correctly answering the trivia question associated with the October edition of the SXSW Interactive Festival monthly e-mail newsletter. More specifically, she knew that Monday, October 19 was the day we would announce the first batch of confirmed panels for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. In case you missed yesterday's release, click here to see the list of 100+ sessions that constitute this first announcement.

Look for the next batch of confirmed Interactive Festival programming to be announced on the SXSW website on Monday, November 9. And don't forget to take advantage of the current early registration discount before November 13.

Photo provided by Stephanie Gerbig.

Gary Vaynerchuk At BookPeople Wednesday, October 21 at 7pm

Christine Auten — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:42:54 +0000

SXSW Interactive 2010 speaker Gary Vaynerchuk will be at BookPeople (603 N Lamar Blvd) this Wednesday, October 21 at 7:00 pm in support of his new book "Crush It!: Why NOW Is the Time to Cash In on Your Passion."

Always a dynamic speaker, Gary will be on hand to talk about his latest project, answer as many questions as he can, take some pictures and shake some hands.

Be sure to have your business card handy to enter a drawing to win a free 2010 SXSW Interactive registration.

Gary Vee at SXSW 2009 photo courtesy of Francis Joseph Cruzada.

SXSW 101: Hotel Shuttle for the Budget-Minded

adrienne — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:07:33 +0000

Music, Interactive, and Film registrants on a budget should consider the less expensive hotels just a few minutes outside downtown.

The R&R Hotel Shuttle has been expanded to run to hotels beyond convenient walking distance during Interactive/Film as well as Music. Shuttles will run more frequently (stops every 30 minutes at the Convention Center and hotels included on the shuttle route). Service will begin at 8:30 am to get you to the Convention Center and run until 3:00 am to get you home from the clubs. Buy a pass now for just $40 for five days of unlimited travel or $60 for nine days. Convenience during the day – and your designated driver at night.

Scott Thomas Gives Us Hope, Visually

sarah — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 01:10:19 +0000

At last year’s SXSW Interactive conference, Scott Thomas, Design Director of the Obama Presidential campaign, spoke on a panel called "Designing Change in America." Thomas is one of the founders of The Post Family, a design collective he began with six other creative types in 2006. Now with the help of The Post family, Thomas is launching his first book entitled "Designing Obama."

The book is a collaborative effort by different artists and chronicles the art and design used by the historic campaign. The innovative campaign was the first time in American politics a candidate had used branding and design to bring together his supporters and secure a presidential bid. "Designing Obama" showcases pieces created unofficially by grassroots supporters and shows how the voice of the American people was captured in a visual way.

Funding the book in a similar manner as the campaign, The Post Family has decided to publish, promote and print it themselves. Powered by small donations, the project hopes to raise enough money by November 4 to publish a minimum run. Best of luck to Scott in his endeavor!

Image of Scott Thomas provided by SimpleScott.

Game on Austin Turned The Spotlight on Local Studios

melissa — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:14:02 +0000

Game On Austin painted a picture of what the energy looks like each year at Screenburn at SXSW by turning the spotlight on video game studios. ScreenBurn, The Austin Chronicle, IGDA Austin, AMODA and Game Over Video Games brought together our forces to host a Mohawk function that was a night to remember.

Challenge Games showed off the first true 3D game on Facebook called GridIron Live that gives football fans a whole new way to play football, compete against friends and share their love of the game through their social network. Attendees swarmed around the venue, checking out Red Fly Studio's first game developed for the Food Network called Cook or Be Cooked, Twisted Pixel's 'Splosion Man and
Axelo's new BAT controller.

Perfect Dork's Box Macabre was a hit and Billy Garretsen, Perfect Dork's President, said the event "was a great place for exposure and allowed the right people to play their games while providing an amazing opportunity to connect with local developers and enjoy a night on the town."

Scare for a Cure was at the GameOn event last Thursday night with fangs bared to raise money for their October charity event for cancer. Scare for a Cure was born out of the ashes of past SXSW speaker, Richard Garriott's, legendary Britannia Manor haunted house. If you didn't get enough action at Game On Austin, you can join them October 23-31 as they resurrect Garriott's haunted house this year for a great cause.

Contributed by: Lindsay Muse

Top: Gamers enjoy Red Fly Studio's demo courtesy of Kain Shin
Bottom: Revelers chill in Game Over's lounge courtesy of Eric Lachey

SXSW 101: Who else is coming?

adrienne — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:34:18 +0000

After you register for SXSW 2010 you’ll gain access to my.sxsw.com -- our easy and versatile social networking site. This is where the entire community of SXSW attendees (registrants, panelists, trade show exhibitors, and others) post messages to each other (individually or as a whole) about their past experiences and their plans for the upcoming event. And it has handy tools that help you book a hotel room, upload a photo for your badge, and link to Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace pages.

First Batch of Panel Programming Announced for SXSW 2010

hugh — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:36:08 +0000

We are excited to announce the first batch of confirmed panels and solo presentations for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival (see the list after the jump). These titles are just the first of many cool sessions we have in store for next year, and nicely represent the flavor and personality of the event, with panels covering a wide variety of geek-related topics. Most of the titles below came from the 2300+ proposals submitted to the SXSW PanelPicker (and each title is linked to the original proposal in this interface).

SXSW Interactive 2010 will feature over 300 panels, solo presentations, Core Conversations, Salons, Book Readings, and more. This is only the first of several programming announcements over the coming months, with the next announcement on Monday, November 9. So if you don't see your favorite proposal listed below, remember that we have many more amazing titles still to come.

You can also check out our list of confirmed speakers for SXSW Interactive 2010.

If you want to see this amazing content live and in person, register now for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival.

2009 Iran Election: Women's Revolution? Twitter Revolution? (Mona Kasra, UT at Dallas)
ActivityStrea.ms: Is It Getting Streamy In Here? (Chris Messina, OpenID Foundation)
All About the Browser, Baby! (Molly Holzschlag, molly.com)
ANYONE Can Create a Video Game! (Michael Agustin, Gendai Games Inc.)
ARGs and Women: Moving Beyond the Hot Brunette (Andrea Phillips, Deus Ex Machinatio)
The Art & Science of Seductive Interactions (Stephen Anderson, PoetPainter)
Artists, Labels Embrace Virtual Worlds (Lee Clancy, IMVU)
Battery Life, the Final (Mobile) Frontier (Toby Shapshak, Maven Media)
Beyond Algorithms: Search and the Semantic Web (Nova Spivack, Radar Networks)
Beyond LAMP: Scaling Websites Past MySQL (Serkan Piantino, Facebook)
Beyond Scifi: Design For Surfaces and Big Screens (Colombene Jenner, Schematic)
Black Blogging Rockstars (Maurice Cherry, Relate Media Group)
Blah Blah Blah: Why Words Won't Work (Dan Roam, Author)
Building A Bulletproof Personal-Finance System (Ramit Sethi, I Will Teach You To Be Rich)
Can Wikipedia Survive Popular Success and Community Decline? (Andrew Lih, USC Annenberg School for Communication)
Clay Shirky Presentation (Clay Shirky, shirky.com)
Content Strategy FTW (Kristina Halvorson, Brain Traffic)
Cooking For Geeks: A Primer on Food Hacking (Jeff Potter, Cooking for Geeks)
Crowd Sourcing Innovative Social Change (Beth Kanter, Beth's Blog)
CrowdControl: Changing The Face Of Media Or Hype? (Lila King, CNN.com)
Crowdsourcing: The Ensemble's Experience With the Netflix Prize (Greg McAlpin, The Ensemble Netflix Prize Team)
Design Fiction: Props, Prototypes, Predicaments Communicating New Ideas (Julian Bleecker, Near Future Laboratory)
Design for the Dark Side (Ben Fullerton, IDEO)
Designing the First Fifteen Minutes (Rob Goodlatte, Facebook)
Digital's Emerging Role In Unconsumption (Nita Rollins, Resource Interactive)
Don't Get Sued! A Guide For Content Creators (Robert Strent, Grubman, Indursky & Shire, PC)
Engaging The Queer Community (Trish Bendix, MTV/AfterEllen.com)
Evolution of Online Video (Jason Wishnow, TED)
Experimental Design: Your User Interface Is Your Laboratory (Mike McDerment, FreshBooks)
Exploiting Chaos -- How to Spark Innovation During Times of Change (Jeremy Gutsche, TrendHunter.com)
From Trolls to Stars: The Commenter Ecosystem (Kate Miltner, NY Social Media Roundtable)
Future of Context: Getting the Bigger Picture Online (Matt Thompson, Newsless.org)
The Future of the Digital Living Room (Ron Pessner, Microsoft / X-Box)
Gaming the Crowd: Turning Work Into Play (Andy Baio, Kickstarter)
Gary Vaynerchuk Presentation (Gary Vaynerchuk, winelibrary.com)
The Great "MMO" Hope (Min Kim, Nexon America)
History of the Button (Bill DeRouchey, Ziba Design)
How the Internet is Disrupting the Concert Industry (Ian Hogarth, Songkick.com)
How The Other Half Lives - Touring The Digital Divide (Jessamyn West, Tunbridge Public Library)
How to Teach Entrepreneurialism Globally (Doug Richard, School for Startups)
How WebHooks Will Make Us All Programmers (Jeff Lindsay, GliderLab)
I Don't Trust You One Stinking Bit (Chris Brogan, New Marketing Labs)
In Code We Trust: Open Government Awesomeness (Noel Hidalgo, New York State Senate)
Indirect Collaboration: Collective Creativity on the Web (Joe Alterio, Robots and Monsters)
Interactive Documentaries: a Multidimensional Narrative (Victoria Ha, Stitch Media Inc)
Interactive Infographics (Casey Caplow, GOOD)
Is Canvas the End of Flash? (Gregory Veen, Small Batch Inc.)
Is Technology Weakening Interpersonal Relationships? (Corinne Weisgerber, St. Edward's University)
Is the Brain the Ultimate Computer Interface? (Christie Nicholson, Scientific American)
Is WordPress Killing Web Design (Dan Oliver, .net magazine)
Jacks of All Trades or Masters of One? (Brian Talbot, Viget Labs)
Joi Ito Presentation (Joi Ito, joi.ito.com)
The Life Graph: You Are Your Location (Sam Altman, Loopt, Inc.)
Living Irrationally: The Way We Date, Work and Cheat (Dan Ariely, predictablyirrational.com)
Long Distance UX (Lisa Kamm, Google)
Made It So (Interface Makers in Movies) (Chris Noessel, Cooper)
Managing Your Content Management System (Alex Will, Spoonfed)
Media Armageddon: What Happens When the New York Times Dies (Henry Copeland, Blogads.com)
Mobile 2015 - Your Personal Pocket Proxy (Chad Owens, imc²)
Moon 2.0: The Outer Limits of Lunar Exploration (Amanda Stiles, X PRIZE Foundation)
My Life, Take Two: The Right to Delete (Chris Conley, ACLU of Northern California)
Negotiating the Parent/Teen Divide Over Social Networking (Karen Rayne, Adolescent Sexuality Today)
Networked Love, Bonding, Intimacy: Our Interactive Culture Clouds (Evonne Heyning, Amoration)
New Publishing and Web Content (Jeffrey Zeldman, Happy Cog)
No Touching! Truly Invisible Interfaces (Ron Goldin, LUNAR)
Offering Your Content in 100 Languages (June Cohen, TED Conferences)
Online Advertising: Losing the Race to the Bottom (Jim Coudal, Coudal Partners)
Open Leadership: The Upside Of Giving Up Control (Charlene Li, Altimeter Group)
OpenFrameworks - A Powerful Creative Coding Library for Artists (Zachary Lieberman, openFrameworks)
Opening Remarks (danah boyd, danah.org)
Our Digital Future: The National Broadband Plan And You (S. Derek Turner, Free Press)
Pain Free Design Signoff (Paul Boag, headscape.co.uk)
PayTV vs. Internet - The Battle For Your TV (Avner Ronen, boxee)
Pervasive Games and Playful Experiences: Rendering the Real World (Clare Reddington, iShed/The Pervasive Media Studio)
Power-Ups & Press: How the Game Media Impacts the Gaming Industry (Karen Chu, PlayFirst Inc)
Process Journalism: Getting it First, While Getting it Right (Will Sullivan, The Poynter Institute)
Prototyping Web Apps - Nobody Loves a Wireframe (Michael Leggett, Google)
R.I.P. Content Management System (Dries Buytaert, Acquia/Drupal)
Real-Time Everything: the Era of Communication Ubiquity (Rob Gonda, Sapient)
Revenge Of Kick-Ass Mash-Ups with Punk Rock APIs (Kent Brewster, Netflix)
RT: I'm Going to Kill Myself. Preventing Suicide Online (Christopher Gandin Le, Emotion Technology)
Search Patterns: Tangible Futures for Discovery (Peter Morville, Semantic Studios)
Selling Subculture Without Selling Out (Molly Crabapple, Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School)
Sexting + Nudie Pics = Digital Violence Among Teens (Chloe Gottlieb, R/GA)
Slow Twitter: Users Who Take Their Time Tweeting (Nick Douglas, Twitter Wit)
Social Justice and Video Games (Latoya Peterson, racialicious.com)
Social Search: A Little Help From My Friends (Brynn Evans, UC San Diego)
Student Startups: Entrepreneurship in the University (Hung Truong, Troubadour Mobile)
Thoughtless Design Leaves Disabled Gamers Logged Out (Michelle Hinn, AbleGamers.com)
Trials and Tribulations of the Pirate Bay (Peter Sunde, The Pirate Bay)
The UX of Mobile (Kyle Outlaw, Razorfish)
Universities in the "Free" Era (Glenn Platt, Armstrong Institute for Interactive Media Studies, Miami University)
Unsexy & Profitable: Making $$ Without Hype (Matthew Chasen, uShip.com)
Uprising Tide - Inciting Online Communities into Offline Movements (Chris Schultz, LaunchPad, New Orleans)
Visual Note-Taking 101 (Austin Kleon, austinkleon.com)
We F*cked Up. Now What? Exploring Failure, Together (Kevin Hoffman, Happy Cog)
Web Accessibility Gone Wild (Jared Smith, WebAIM)
Web Framework Battle Royale (Leah Culver, Six Apart)
What Guys are Doing to Get More Girls in Tech! (Kaliya Hamlin, She's Geeky)
What We Learned Watching Kids with Homemade Flamethrowers (Tim Hwang, ROFLCON)
What's Open Video and Why Does It Matter? (Elizabeth Stark, Open Video Alliance)
When Swine Flew: Embracing Innovation in H1N1 Response (Andrew Wilson, U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services)
Why Challenge Prizes Are the Future of Innovation (Brandon Kessler, ChallengePost)
Why Keep Blogging? Real Answers for Smart Tweeple (Emily Gordon, Emdashes.com)
Why Self-Promotion Will Save the World (Peter Shankman, Help A Reporter Out (HARO))
Why You Aren't Done Yet (David Heinemeier Hansson, 37signals.com)
Wikipedia Gets an Upgrade: Collaborative Video (Michal Tsur, Kaltura)
Will Kiva Kill Your Nonprofit? Donations 2.0 (Skylar Woodward, Kiva)
Writing Web Content For A Living (Tiffani Jones, Second and Park)
You Developed the Content -- Now Build The Hardware (Peter Semmelhack, Bug Labs)

Note: Tag Cloud represents only the first batch of SXSW Interactive 2010 programming as of October 19, 2009.

Don't Miss the First Batch of 2010 Titles This Monday, October 19

Christine Auten — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 20:44:02 +0000

Keep your eyes peeled right here this Monday, October 19, for the first batch of 2010 SXSW Interactive sessions. Representing approximately one-fourth of the total programming for the 2010 event, these titles will range from technical sessions about web and interface design, wireless innovation and business operations to more philosophical discussions about online marketing, social networks and other geek-centric topics.

SXSW Interactive 2010 will feature over 200 panels, solo presentations, Core Conversations, Salons, Book Readings, and more. This is only the first of many programming announcements over the next few months, so stay tuned for more cool titles!

Don't forget to visit our talks section for more information about the many different types of sessions SXSW Interactive has to offer. And to see a list of SXSW Interactive speakers from the past 16 years, visit our Past Speakers Page.

Photo of Tony Hsieh's Opening Remarks at the 2009 SXSW Interactive Festival courtesy of Peter Tsai.

Now On the SXSW YouTube Channel: Nate Silver / Steven Baker Keynote Conversation Part 2

Christine Auten — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 20:01:11 +0000

Earlier this week we posted Part 1 of the 2009 SXSW Interactive Sunday Keynote conversation between Veteran BusinessWeek columnist Stephen Baker and the founder and president of fivethirtyeight.com, Nate Silver. Now you can now catch Part 2 of this topical interview on the SXSW YouTube Channel.

This part of the discussion focuses on the art of forecasting and prediction in general, with a peak into Nate's upcoming book, in which he talks to people from many different fields, from hurricane forecasting and fashion design to search (even the search for extraterrestrial life) for insights into prediction using different types of data sets.

Check out Part 1 and be sure to stay tuned right here, and to the SXSW YouTube Channel for more great video of SXSW Interactive 2009.

Where Are They Now: Accelerator at SXSW Winner TubeMogul

raquel — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:00:48 +0000

One of the sensations at the 2009 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW event was TubeMogul, winner in the Online Video-Related Technologies category. Launched in 2006, TubeMogul entered the market as a tool to enhance video distribution capabilities for publishers, advertisers, video producers and the like. Brett Wilson, Co-Founder and CEO of TubeMogul, said that since winning Accelerator at SXSW last year, his company’s revenue has tripled, and the size of his team doubled.

"Participating in and winning the event for our category was a great learning experience and increased our visibility amongst customers, partners and investors," Wilson said.

Through a featured called Universal Upload, a user chooses which video channels they would like to distribute their material through. With the click of a button, the video is sent to multiple sites. TubeMogul also offers analysis about the way people behave with a customer’s video - where they came from, how long they watched it, where they went next - all in neat charts and graphs.

In the words of Wilson, "Accelerator at SXSW is an extremely well-run and high-profile event. What are you waiting for?"

Technology companies wanting to showcase their innovative product / service should visit the Accelerator website for more information on how to get involved with Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010.

Photo of Brett Wilson accepting his trophy for TubeMogul courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Sapient Hosts the Annual Mix at Six Party

sarah — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:43:39 +0000

The 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival starts March 12 and we want to know, what are you doing that night? Join us to make new friends, network and get inspired by fellow attendees at our official pre-party, The Mix at Six. SXSW Interactive and Sapient are excited to be partnering for this party from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on March 12 at Six Lounge and the adjoining Tap Room (117 W 4th St) in downtown Austin.

Don't be shy, come out and enjoy the company of some of the brightest minds in emerging technology and a great view of downtown Austin from the rooftop deck. Stay tuned to our Interactive parties page as a wide array of evening events are still being announced.

Interested in hosting an Interactive party? Contact Katie King at katie@sxsw.com.

Photo of 2009 Mix at Six courtesy of Jojo Marion.

Enter Web Awards before the Friday, October 16 Deadline!

andrew — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:10:25 +0000

The 2010 SXSW Web Awards is looking for sites that are doing new and exciting things in the world of web design. If you have a new or redesigned web site, submit it to this year's competition by Friday, October 16 and save $15 on the final entry price.

So if you're kicking ass and taking names in web development, make sure you enter your site! The winners will be announced at the 13th Annual Web Awards Ceremony during SXSW Interactive on the evening of March 14, 2010. The Web Awards are presented by our friends at Adobe.

Photo of "We Tell Stories" winning the Best of Show Award at the 2009 SXSW Interactive Web Awards courtesy of Peter Tsai.

Onsite Registration – Expanded Hours for 2010

adrienne — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:08:22 +0000

Can’t wait to pick up your badge and dive into SXSW? This year Interactive, Film, Platinum and Gold registrants can get their badges at the Austin Convention Center starting at 3:00pm on Thursday, March 11th. That’s a day earlier than years past to make your SXSW experience more convenient. For the next seven days registration will open at 9:00am each morning for registrants to get their credentials and ask questions before panels and other fun stuff begins at 9:30am or 10:00am.

Check out the revised schedule for the most current and complete hours of SXSW 2010.

Photo of registration area courtesy of Monica Eck

SXSW Interactive Alum Named a Political Game Changer

sarah — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:11:17 +0000

As we recently wrote, The Huffington Post, as part of their feature “HuffPost Game Changers”, is seeking out 100 innovators in 10 categories who are harnessing the power of new media to reshape their fields. Just announced as a finalist in the Politics category is past SXSW Interactive speaker, Jane Hamsher.

Hamsher is the founder and publisher of the politically progressive blog FireDogLake. In 2007, Hamsher led the SXSW Interactive keynote with Dan Rather. Hamsher asked Rather questions about the current crisis in journalism and the factors that have led to it. The interview addressed how the consolidation of major media into the hands of a few has led some to think the media has failed in their role as watchdogs of power. It may have also led to the creation of a vacuum, one in which the blogosphere, FireDogLake included, has been quick to fill.

Hamsher is currently using her web platform to ensure the swift passage of health care reform, an issue close to her, as she is a three-time cancer survivor. We are excited SXSW Interactive alums are continuing to inspire the progressive community to take action and change the world.

Meat + Greet: BBQ Crash Course Returns to SXSW 2010

sarah — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:15:36 +0000

The 2010 SXSW Interactive and Film Festivals officially begin on Friday, March 12. But, if you are a registered attendee (for Interactive, Film, Gold or Platinum) and will be in Austin on Thursday, March 11, the BBQ Crash Course is a can't-miss event. Join us from from 6:00-9:00 pm at Emo's for a savory selection of ribs, brisket and other tasty fare from some of Central Texas' finest barbecue establishments -- and the first chance to rub elbows with like-minded SXSW attendees.

The cost to attend is just $35. Purchase your BBQ Crash Course ticket when you register for SXSW -- or, if you have already registered, e-mail the Registration Department for more information. The BBQ Crash Course is presented by SXSW and our friends at Dishola.

Photo of Erin Caton at 2009 BBQ Crash Course courtesy of Dustin Diaz.

Through the Lens: Screenburn Puts Film and Gaming in Focus

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:24:18 +0000

Screenburn at SXSW is all about bringing people together. SXSW has been a breeding ground for many beautiful relationships. A good example of that is the crossover that exists between film and gaming. Film is one of the oldest forms of contemporary entertainment and helped to lay the foundation for storytelling in gaming. Machinima is a perfect example of a hybrid of the two, bringing games to life and adding a unique cinematic feel to the experience.

Recently, Watchmen director Zack Snyder signed a deal with EA for three new titles. Peter Sciretta, a blogger for /Film, quoted Snyder as saying, “A dialogue needs to be established between filmmakers and game producers. It’s not marketing; it can’t be an afterthought.” Thus, a film director finds a new home in the world of video games.

Screenburn at SXSW could be the launchpad you need, and who knows, maybe your film or gaming repertoire could help make your game release go from indie obscurity to triple A status. To get involved in ScreenBurn at SXSW, contact Lindsay Muse.

Photo of Screnburn Arcade 2009 by Peter Tsai

First Batch of Panel Titles to be Released October 19

hugh — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:02:24 +0000

The 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival will include more than 200 solo and panel discussions, as well as Core Conversations, Salons and Book Readings. Stay tuned right here on Monday, October 19 when we announce the first batch of confirmed programming for next year's event.

From blogging to business models, to web design and wireless technology, this programing will cover a wide variety of captivating geek-related topics. The first batch will consist of about 80 titles, thus representing approximately one-fourth of the total programming for the 2010 event.

Visit our talks section for more information about the many different types of sessions SXSW Interactive has to offer. And to see a list of SXSW Interactive speakers from the past 16 years, visit our Past Speaker Page.

Photo of a 2009 Interactive panel room courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Become Web Awards Supporting Sponsor

Katie — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:37:24 +0000

Each year SXSW Interactive hosts the Web Awards, an event that seeks to honor web innovations in a variety of categories. Becoming a Supporting Sponsor of the 2010 SXSW Web Awards carries unparalleled cache in the Interactive world. As the unrivaled centerpiece of the Festival's evening events, no other opportunity allows such positive associations with the leaders of the industry at SXSW Interactive at such an affordable cost.

While many of the benefits of becoming a Supporting Sponsor of the 2010 Web Awards revolve around the cache your brand will create in association with the production itself, there are numerous other advantages. These extra perks include having your brand logo featured on the Web Awards section of our site and in within the Interactive Program Directory. The repository of positives that come with this economical sponsorship opportunity knows no limit. Contact Katie King today to learn how you can become a part of the 2010 SXSW Web Awards.

Photo of 2009 Web Awards emcee Baratunde Thurston courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Now On the SXSW YouTube Channel: Nate Silver / Stephen Baker Keynote Conversation

Christine Auten — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:44:22 +0000

On March 15, 2009 Veteran BusinessWeek columnist Stephen Baker sat down with American statistician Nate Silver, founder and president of fivethirtyeight.com, for the 2009 SXSW Interactive Sunday Keynote conversation. You can now catch Part 1 of this topical interview on the SXSW YouTube Channel.

Prior to the last presidential election Nate Silver was best know for developing PECOTA - a system for forecasting the performance and career development of Major League Baseball players. When he turned those skills to the political arena his site fivethirtyeight.com became a surprisingly accurate barometer for the tide of the 2008 presidential campaign.

With his recent book "The Numerati" chronicling the growing power of metadata in today's society, Stephen Baker is particularly suited to the task of shining a light on what this type of analysis means to our culture at large.

Later this week we will bring you Part 2 of this fascinating discussion, and be sure to check back with the SXSW YouTube Channel talks section for more SXSW Interactive 2009 programming.

Paul Schreiber Shares America's Stories of Health

sarah — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:55:19 +0000

In the ongoing health care debate, many are citing health care costs and government budgets as evidence that the system is in dire need of reform. Paul Schreiber, frequent SXSW Interactive attendee and past speaker, has shifted the dialogue away from statistics and dollar amounts towards personal stories and experiences. The result of this is Stories of Health.

Created by Stanford Williams and Paul Schreiber, Stories of Health is a website aimed at putting faces on the many stories of health care disasters. Williams and Schreiber first met through their involvement with Organizing for America and were moved by the heart-wrenching stories they heard. For a month, the two traveled California talking to people about their experiences with emergency room visits, getting dropped by insurance companies, losing money, family members and even homes.

With their site, Schreiber and Williams are giving a voice to those courageous enough to go public with an issue that has weighed down the nation as a whole. With it, it's their hope to help move others forward, along with the debate about health care.

danah boyd Researches How Society and Technology Intersect

sarah — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:46:15 +0000

Enhanced communications and improvements in technology have prompted Washington and Silicon Valley to explore better ways to solve political problems using technology. danah boyd, social media researcher and past SXSW Interactive speaker is one of the world’s leading experts on social networks and other intersections between technology and society.

boyd recently spoke at Gov 2.0 and at the Personal Democracy Forum, two popular conferences on technology and politics, about how the internet can help improve public policy. boyd’s work examines open-source policy making, geo-targeting and whether the internet liberates cultures from social categories or reinforces them. In 2009, boyd spoke at the SXSW Interactive panel "Can Social Media End Racism?"and discussed how real-world issues exist online and display the same kinds of self-segregation as real life.

As we recently announced, boyd will serve as the Opening Speaker for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival and we are excited to be announcing more speakers later this month. Keep up with our Interactive homepage for updates.

SXSW Panel Liaison Program: Help Us Improve the Event!

hugh — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 18:14:58 +0000

2009 marked the introduction of the Interactive Panel Liaison (IPL) program, which enabled members of the online community to assist in the exchange of information between the SXSW staff and SXSW panelists. The program will return (and improve!) in 2010.

If you are very detail-oriented, anticipate having significant free time in the first three months of 2010, and would like to see SXSW programming continue to improve... then you might be a good candidate to be an IPL in 2010. Want more information? Then e-mail us ASAP and we'll fill you in on all the details.

Screenburn Arcade Puts Gaming and Music Center Stage

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 21:59:13 +0000

When thinking about how far video games have come, it's easy to overlook what makes the classics great. Music is an oft-overlooked element of gaming and can go a long way toward making a game memorable. The entire spectrum of gamers, from the occasional and casual crowd to the l33t and hardcore, recognize their childhood favorites by their famous soundtracks.

Games like Super Mario Bros. and Tetris, with their distinct synthesizer ditties, were created before gaming went from simpler tunes to more complex, cinema-quality soundtracks. Enter the Guitar Hero and Rock Band series.

How do you go about making that leap to greatness? Look no further than Austin, Texas. Screenburn at SXSW gives your business or band the chance to be in the right place at the right time. Take advantage of the chance to find talent in the worlds of both music and gaming. Reserving a place at the Screenburn Arcade or space in the Screenburn Program Guide may be what you need to bump your business to the next level.

There is plenty of competition out there, so don't miss the deadline. November 13 is the last day to get early-bird discounts for ScreenBurn Arcade and ScreenBurn Program Guide space.

Enough said. Now, who's up for some DJ Hero?

Photo of Master Chief at the 2009 ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade by Peter Tsai.

Where Are They Now: Accelerator at SXSW 2009 winner Weardrobe

raquel — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:48:12 +0000

The winners of the 2009 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW showcase enjoyed a lot of exposure to media and industry professionals. One of the winners, Suzanne Xie from Weardrobe, reflected on the impact Accelerator generated for her site in a recent conversation.

"It was the first large-press recognition and external recognition that we got, and it really helped us build our name brand because it was a great way to open conversations," she said.

Weardobe, winner in the Social Networking Applications category, provides a place for a community of fashion-minded individuals to get together and share their looks by creating profiles and uploading photos of what they’re wearing.

Xie relaunched the site recently, and organized the first-ever fashion blogger conference in New York, in which 20 top fashion bloggers participated in blogging workshops, photo shoots, and collaborated with many different brands, including Victoria’s Secret.

And it was at Accelerator that Weardobe first gained recognition.

"It’s really more of a launching pad for building our brand and getting a sense of what about our product is most interesting."

To find out more about the opportunities Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW has for you, click here.

Photo courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Porter Novelli Celebrates 9 Years In Austin!

andrew — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:47:31 +0000

Last night, an eclectic mix of tech professionals, social media mavens, and past SXSW speakers converged at J. Black's Feel Good Lounge to celebrate Porter Novelli's ninth anniversary as one of the premiere public relations firms in Austin.

Amongst the digerati present were Omar Gallaga, aka Digital Savant; social chameleon Wesley Faulkner; Stacey Zuniga, founder of UnWired Nation and 2008 SXSW speaker; and Thom Singer, author of three books on the power of business relationships and longtime SXSW Interactive presenter.

Also spotted was a close friend of Porter Novelli Austin, Matt Allen. Matt is known as the Ice Cream Man because he drives an old ice cream truck (named Bessie) around the country giving away free ice cream to children of all ages. A good time was had by all, and we were happy to see Porter Novelli Austin
get one more candle on its birthday cake!

Contributed by Tammy Lynn Gilmore.

PopTech Is October 21 - 24, Last Minute Discounts for SXSWers

andrew — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:04:11 +0000

Fall has arrived, and there are just a couple of weeks to go until PopTech convenes for its one-of-a-kind idea summit in Camden, Maine.

PopTech 2009: America Reimagined will once again bring together an incredible network of scientists, technologists, businesspeople, artists, designers, social innovators and uncategorizable visionaries this October 21 – 24 in Camden, Maine. It’s not too late to join the conversation and participate in person.

There are a limited number of significantly discounted tickets available for people in the SXSW Interactive network. This special invitation reduces the regular price of participation to $2,500. To secure a discounted ticket, please contact Keryn Gottshalk or call (207) 230-2425, and she will personally handle your registration.

The full roster has just been announced, and includes such renowned visionaries as developmental economist Esther Duflo; behavioral economist Daniel Ariely; cultural critic Kurt Anderson; psychologist Daniel Goleman; and solar energy visionary Dan Nocera, among many others.

Contributed by Tammy Lynn Gilmore.

SXSW Interactive Alums Changing the Game and the World

sarah — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:47:14 +0000

The Huffington Post is on a mission to find 100 people who are using new media to change the world, and SXSW Interactive is thrilled to have hosted finalists Gavin Starks and Bill McKibben. The feature asked readers to help select 100 “HuffPost Game Changers” who are harnessing the power of new media to reshape the fields of entertainment, green, politics, style, business, sports, media, philanthropy, health, and technology.

In 2008, Starks and McKibben, both finalists in the green category, spoke on SXSW Interactive panels discussing the importance of adapting industries, specifically software, to be more eco-friendly. McKibben, a renowned author and environmental activist, spoke on the SXSW Interactive panel “Building a Worldwide Climate Movement” to discuss how he has utilized the help of the tech-savvy and politically hip to build a grassroots worldwide movement. We are pleased to see SXSW Interactive alums being recognized for taking their passion from the cafes and blogs into the streets.

2010 Programming: First Batch of Panels to be Announced October 19

hugh — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:03:30 +0000

On Monday, October 19, about 80 confirmed sessions for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival will be announced via this website. Representing about 1/4 of the total content for next spring's event, these 80 confirmed sessions will all come from ideas submitted by the SXSW community via the 2010 PanelPicker. More panel programming (as well as Core Conversations, Book Readings and Salons) will be announced in November and December. As always, stay tuned to the SXSW Interactive Festival website for complete details!

"Graph Out Loud" and "Fail Nation" Available October 6

andrew — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 22:07:59 +0000

Ben Huh and the cheezburger gang have done it again. "Graph Out Loud" (Gotham Books) and "Fail Nation: A Visual Romp Through the World of Epic Fails" (Harper), the latest print offerings from our friends at the Cheezburger Network, hit shelves tomorrow, October 6, 2009.

Ever wonder just how much "Rock & Roll" makes up the foundation of "This City" or the exact ratio of "Tenacity" to "Number of Limbs Remaining" of the Black Knight in Monty Python, And The The Holy Grail. "Graph Out Loud" will put your pop culture knowledge to the test with a hundred full-color, glossy graphs. "Fail Nation" will take you on a tour of the myriad ways humanity can fail, from some very inappropriate signage to the extremes folks will go to to get their broken cars back on the road.

Contributed by Christine Auten.

Game On Austin: October 15 at the Mohawk

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:24:56 +0000

If you look hard enough, somewhere deep in the heart of Texas, you'll find the Silicon Hills. But the locals just call it Austin. There you will find a city that has not only a welcoming atmosphere for tech industries, but an especially warm place in its heart for gaming.

On Thursday, October 15 the Austin Chronicle, Screenburn at SXSW, IGDA Austin and the Austin Museum of Digital Art will celebrate local game developers, studios, students and game enthusiasts with Game On Austin, a FREE, fun-packed evening featuring video-game tournaments, demos, and raffles from some of the most creative independent video-game studios and developers in Austin, Texas.

Join us from 7 to 10 at The Mohawk (912 Red River St) for drinks and a chance to win a FREE SXSW Interactive 2010 registration.

Photo courtesy of the Austin Chronicle.

Connect with the Press at SXSW

val — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:29:49 +0000

A Premiere Marketing Opportunity pushes your brand awareness to new horizons. Sponsoring the SXSW 2010 Press Suite achieves this. With international and national press attendance reaching over 3,000, this marketing opportunity achieves true brand immersion at SXSW.

A bustling center of activity, the Press Suite is decked out with wireless internet access, accessible computers, complimentary massages, complimentary snacks and beverages. As the sole Sponsor of the Press Suite, your company name and logo will hang on banners and signage throughout the Suite. Both name and logo will also be prominently featured on a banner during SXSW Press Conferences. With past Press Conferences featuring industry luminaries like Erykah Badu, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, DEVO, and Richard Linklater, this particular feature is guaranteed to bring even further exposure to your brand name. In addition to these facets, you will also be able distribute promotional items within the Press Suite.

This Premiere Marketing Opportunity is an enticing opportunity that will not last. Contact a SXSW Sales Representative today to find out how you can secure this sponsorship chance.
Photo: Press Suite courtesy of Jojo Marion

SXSW Stories: Ali Cherry

andrew — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:34:01 +0000

We find it hard, sometimes, to explain the type of experience people have at SXSW every year. Maybe because we're biased, maybe because we're too close to the event. So it's best if we let those who attend SXSW tell it for us. Today, Ali Cherry of Beaconfire Consulting gives us her story.

"SXSW has been playfully dubbed "spring break for geeks" and having gone this year, I can totally see why. The Interactive conference was a unique opportunity for cross-industry learning among 11,000 web geeks from every area of the web. As a nonprofit consultant who bridges the nonprofit and for-profit world on a daily basis, I am already attracted to the idea of “Robin Hood” learning (as Katya Andresen might call it), but I couldn’t have imagined the mental fireworks that are set off when you put programmers, fundraisers, gamers, designers and entrepreneurs under one roof."

Ali Cherry - Beaconfire Consulting

Heroines Grab a Bigger Piece of the Pie

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:27:24 +0000

It isn't a mystery that video games have largely catered to male tastes, namely violence, gore, and the occasional nerdcore plot. But the times they are a changin'. Games are seeing an increase in heroines taking the spotlight and some studios are pitching in. LucasArts is purposely pushing the trend forward, with their newest title, "Lucidity". Brad Nicholson, writer for the gaming blog Destructoid, quoted Lucidity's project lead as saying, "I think it’s really important that we expand the protagonist beyond what people might typically have seen in games."

The industry has finally hit the point where this is no longer an issue so much as a way to reach out to the rising number of female gamers out there. Adding more female characters to the gaming scene is as refreshing as it necessary, and thenumbers don't lie.

The female influence on the gaming world has been evident at ScreenBurn at SXSW since its inception, with speakers like Jane McGonigal, Susan Wu, and Sheri Graner Ray and sessions like 2009's "Girl Gameing Goes Mainstream: Cliches, Reality, and Community." Past ScreenBurn Arcades have featured Girl Gamers and the Frag Dolls, and Gwen Murray took home the Casual Game Prize in the first annual ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition.

Photo courtesy of Offworld.

Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW: Meet the 2010 Advisory Board

raquel — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:16:15 +0000

Every successful event relies on a strong advisory board to help guide its formation and make it a smashing success. For the 2010 edition of Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW, we are bringing together a group of great minds dedicated to making this event one to remember.

This is the first of two posts listing advisory board members for the 2010 Accelerator showcase, with links to relevant information that sheds some light on their backgrounds. More members will be announced in the coming weeks.

Technology companies wanting to showcase their innovative product / service should visit the website for more information on how to get involved with Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010.

Josh Dilworth
Jones-Dilworth, Inc
http://joshdilworth.com
Resident PR Nerd

Scott Henderson
MediaSauce
Non-Profit Leader

Jacob Mullins
Microsoft Corporation
http://twitter.com/jacob
Startup Development Manager

Paul Huggins
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich Rosati
Technology Attorney and Enthusiast

Erica O’Grady
Peanut Butter Media
http://reinventingamerica.com
Chief Experience Officer

Billy Bicket
NetSquared.org
Social Innovation Catalyst

Francisco Dao
Twiistup
Startup Advisor / Conference Producer

Adeo Ressi
The Funded
Entrepreneurial Advocate

Carla Thompson
Guidewire Group
Startup Consultant

Eric Ries
Startup Lessons Learned
Venture Adviser and Entrepreneur

MG Siegler
TechCrunch
New Media Specialist

Felicia Day's "The Guild" Now Available on DVD

sarah — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:27:25 +0000

"The Guild," an online sitcom created by Felicia Day, a past speaker at SXSW Interactive, is now available on DVD. A University of Texas graduate, Day returned to Austin to speak on last year’s SXSW Interactive panel "No Budget to Low Budget," discussing the problems guerilla filmmakers face.

As the creator, writer and star of the series, Day is the poster girl for DIY success. "The Guild," a comedic webisode series about a group of online gamers, was originally financed by fan donations. The series is now in its third season and enjoys financing from Microsoft. Day attributes the show's success to the format of the web series, which allows for marketing to niche markets.

Day went outside mainstream Hollywood and capitalized on an audience seeking different forms of entertainment. Shot in Day’s shed, "The Guild" will now sit in retail stores alongside the DVD’s of major TV shows, a major success for all web series.

Iz Here! Talk Like Da LOLcatz... All Day!

andrew — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:37:42 +0000

Put awai dose dikshunaries. Toss ur AP style guide out da window. It's October 1... 10-1... and dat means it's speak like a LOLcat day. Prof Happycat has taken over the interwebz, the twitterverse an da other facey-spaces out dar to spread the message of wurld domination an cheezeburgerz 4 all!

Many thanks to our friends, SXSW Interactive alums Ben Huh and Eric Nakagawa and the 26 bloggers, moderators, developers and staff of the Cheezburger Network for making it their mission to make us happy for a few minutes each day.

Contributed by Christine Auten.

Photo source: http://icanhascheezburger.com/.

Boco Comes to Boulder on October 2

hugh — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:40:30 +0000

Congrats to frequent SXSW Interactive panelist and attendee Andrew Hyde, who is one of the forces behind the new boco event in Boulder. Scheduled for Friday, October 2, boco is a mashup of the inspirational and innovative things in Music, Tech and Food.

Hyde and other organizers believe that attendees will learn more about their chosen profession by taking a step back and listening to what is thriving in other industries. The conference takes place in venues all over downtown Boulder, showing off the mountain-town feel and charm of Colorado. Tickets are still available -- check out the registration page for more information.

There's Still Time To Save on SXSW Registrations

andrew — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:23:10 +0000

The first early bird registration deadline has passed, but that wasn't your last opportunity to save. Through November 4 you can register to attend SXSW Interactive for only $450, that's $100 of the walk up price of $550. So there's still time to save on all the great Interactive programming, ScreenBurn at SXSW panels and events, endless networking opportunities, the Film + Interactive Trade Show, the Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator showcase and the 13th Annual Web Awards.

You can also save big on Film, Music, Gold and Platinum registrations through November 4. And don't forget that once you purchase your badge, you can get the best rate on hotel accommodations if you book through the SXSW Housing desk.

Contributed by Christine Auten.

Frank Warren Calls for Us to Free Our Secrets and Free Ourselves

sarah — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:41:31 +0000

PostSecret is a community-mail art project that calls for people to anonymously mail in their never-before-revealed secrets on a homemade postcard. Created by 2008 SXSW Interactive keynote speaker Frank Warren, the initial project has spawned a website and numerous best-selling books. The fifth book, "Confessions on Life, Death, & God" was released October 6.

Submissions have been controversial, ranging from confessions of criminal acts and sexual indiscretions to private desires and behaviors. Warren has managed to create an entirely anonymous online confessional where users share their personal secrets without the fear of judgment.

In his 2008 keynote address, Warren shared secrets that have not been published on his website or in his books as well as his insights as an expert in secrets. Warren expressed his belief that the secrets we keep often keep us and that only through sharing them can we be free.

The heartwarming address about how technology can help us overcome some of our darkest fears moved the audience and ultimately ended in a marriage proposal. PostSecret has collected more than 2,500 original pieces of art from people around the world and it is Warren’s hope people continue to bravely share their secrets, understanding and compassion.

You’ve Got Your Badge… Have You Got Your Bed?

adrienne — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:54:35 +0000

Now that you’ve registered for SXSW don’t miss out on the SXSW group rates at one of the fifty great Austin hotels through the SXSW Housing Desk. The most popular downtown properties are already selling out and more will fill up every day.

Booking your hotel is a simple two-step process:

First – browse the list of available hotels to find one that suits your needs. Clicking on a hotel name will open a detailed hotel amenities page describing the hotel category, distance from the Convention Center, internet service, food options, etc.

Second – once you’ve picked the perfect place go to your Shopping Cart and click the green button to book your hotel. It’s that easy! (If you don’t have access to the Shopping Cart that was used for your registration go to my.sxsw.com, select “edit my profile” and use the link to request a new reservation).

Even if you’re not completely sure about your travel dates, reservations can be changed without penalty up to the week of SXSW, (your housing confirmation will specify the exact change and cancel policy for your hotel), so it’s best to take care of your hotel needs now.

Don’t forget to look for the bus icon on the hotel list signifying a property on the R & R Hotel Shuttle providing 5 days of unlimited shuttle service for $40 or 9 days for $60.

Still not sure how to book a room? Email the friendly folks at the SXSW Housing Desk or give them a call (512-467-7979) and they’ll find exactly the right accommodations for you.

Enter Your Cool Game Idea in the ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition

andrew — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:45:25 +0000

What kind of game would you design if you had unlimited budget and resources? We'd like to know! You have until Friday, December 4 to submit your idea to the second-annual ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition.

How do you enter? Easy. Click here to go to the simple online entry form. Provide the name of your game along with a detailed 200 word description of your idea. Choose a category for your entry (Casual/Arcade or AAA Game), fill in contact information, and you're all set. There is no fee to enter.

Ten (10) finalists for each category will be announced on Thursday, December 17. These semi-finalists will then construct a slideshow presentation that graphically illustrates their concept. All semi-finalists who submit a final presentation by Friday, January 8 will receive a 2010 Interactive Festival registration (which includes admission to all ScreenBurn at SXSW activities).

Contributed by Christine Auten.

Photo of 2009 Casual Game Design Winner Gwen Murray courtesy of Adrian Zamora.

Interactive Panelist Green Room

andrew — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:12:18 +0000

Need to get your brand in front of the most innovative interactive industry insiders? Sponsor the SXSW Interactive Panelist Green Room. Located on the upper level of the Austin Convention Center, this marketing opportunity is unrivaled. This relaxing lounge area is populated by the SXSW Interactive Panelists and is an incomparable venue for a company seeking to reach the innovative core of the industry.

From branding in the Green Room to advertising in the Interactive Program Directory, this marketing chance is second to none. Interested in this amazing opportunity? Contact Katie King today.

Contributed by Katie King.

Photo of the Interactive Panelist Green Room courtesy of JoJo Marion.

Connect Your Community at Voodoo's TribeCon 2009

andrew — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 18:44:11 +0000

TribeCon is 2-day educational conference held October 29-30, featuring award-winning speakers with a passion for building online communities to inspire powerful offline movements. Held in New Orleans, this years conference will host speakers Micah Baldwin, creator of Twitter’s #FollowFriday and Eric Marcoullier, founder of MyBlogLog.

TribeCon is being produced in partnership with Voodoo Experience and allows attendees to benefit from the insight of leaders in social media and online community building all while partaking in New Orleans’ signature fall music event. This world-class event brings together social media evangelists, internet entrepreneurs and musicians looking to leverage Web 2.0 tools to achieve purpose-driven momentum for their cause.

Experience a day of learning and stick around for a celebration of music over the Halloween weekend in the most soulful city in America. Register today and mobilize your community, enter the promo code "SXSW" for an additional 25% off.

Contributed by Sarah Garcia.

Sketchnotes of SXSW Interactive 2009 iPhone App!

melissa — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:45:07 +0000

We've been huge fans of Mike Rohde's work for a long time (so much so that we asked him to design the art for the 2009 Interactive Big Bag), and are happy to tell you about his Sketchnotes of SXSW Interactive 2009 iPhone App. Developed by Mark Carpenter of Six Voices, the Sketchnotes of SXSW Interactive 2009 iPhone App allows users to view Mike's sketchnotes of the 2009 event. We recently had the chance to interview Mike over email about the app, which you can read below:

Were you thinking about a potential iPhone app when you drew this stuff in March 2009? Does the iPhone interface potentially alter your style of drawing?

As a matter of fact, I wasn't thinking of an iPhone app at all!

My thoughts had been focused on creating a printed book of my sketchnotes, when I was contacted by Mark Carpenter from SixVoices about creating an iPhone app. Mark showed me the Tapstack app catalog and I was sold on the idea. I'm still exploring some kind of book of my entire catalog of sketchnotes — the SXSW iPhone app just happened to get published first.

I created a set of sketchnotes, optimized for iPhone-sized cards and worked with SixVoices to develop and test the application. It has been a long, fascinating and satisfying path, releasing a sketchnotes application for the iPhone.

The reception to the app has been great. People really seem to like having a set of my sketchnotes in their pocket. I'm hoping to share the app with even more people as SXSW 2010 approaches.

Who is your target audience for this app? SXSW veterans or folks who have never been to the event? Or both?

We're interested in a spectrum of people, including hard-core SXSW veterans, folks who may have attended a this year and are pondering a return in 2010 and even those who may not have attended SXSW but are curious.

I love that the SXSW Interactive sketchnotes have relevance to the entire spectrum people we're targeting with the app. Veterans have a handy reference to the ideas presented at this year's festival and those new to SXSW Interactive can find interesting ideas, even if they have never been to the festival.

I was drawn to attend SXSW Interactive by listening to the freely available recorded podcasts, so I think in the same way, the sketchnotes app has potential to show valuable the panels at the festival are and encourage attendance.

What was your favorite drawing / sketch from the stuff you did at SXSW 2009?

My favorite was the opening sketch from "Freelance to Agency" with Jeffrey Zeldman, Roger Black, Whitney Hess and Kristina Halvorson. I'm especially fond of the curvy type on the opening page. For some reason that page always makes me smile.

You can see a photo of that sketchnote in progress, taken by my friend Derek Dysart at djdysart.com on Flickr.

How long does it take you to produce one of these drawings?

I create my sketchnotes live and in real-time, so each page varies in time it might take to create. However, I would estimate a single page of sketchnotes might take about 10-15 minutes on average. It depends greatly upon the speaker or panel and how dense or well communicated the content is.

As a visual artist, do you think you absorb the panel content in a different way than other SXSW attendees?

I think so. As I listen to panel presentations, I often see images in my head and try to capture those on paper, and for me, representing a talk in typography feels like the most natural thing in the world to do. Of course I also write plain ol' text in my sketchnotes, so in some ways what I capture is not that terribly different, but in other ways it is.

Thanks so much for the interview. I really hope this application for the iPhone and iPod touch helps SXSW vets remember what they've learned. For those interested in attending SXSW but unsure, I hope the app gives them a glimpse into how much fun it is to be at the festival in person.

--
You can download the Sketchnotes of SXSW Interactive 2009 iPhone app here.

"How To Take Over Teh Wurld, A LOLcat Guide 2 Winning" Is Here!

andrew — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:36:38 +0000

SXSW Interactive alum Ben Huh has done it again. "How To Take Over Teh Wurld, A LOLcat Guide 2 Winning," his follow-up to last year's New York Times bestseller "I Can Has Cheezburger? A LOLcat Colleckshun," features 200 all-new, glossy and full-color LOLcat images. This collection gives cats all the information they will need to make their quest for world domination a success, including: "Subdue ur feerz and desires" and "Kill dem til dey die from it." Remember, even though they plan to take over the world, LOLcats have never quite gotten a handle on spelling or grammar.

In 2007, the LOLcat meme turned into a craze which found a home on the hugely popular blog, icanhazcheezburger.com. In 2008, site co-founders Ben Huh and Eric Nakagawa unleashed the "cheezburger" onto SXSW Interactive in a panel entitled "LOLWUT? Why Do I Keep Coming Back to This Website?" Two books and 12 million hits per month later the LOLcat phenomenon has taken the internet by storm, giving cats all over the world delusions of grandeur. "How To Take Over Teh Wurld, A LOLcat Guide 2 Winning" (Gotham Books) By Prof Happycat and icanhazcheezburger.com hit shelves on September 1.

Contributed by Christine Auten.

Bestselling Author Dan Ariely to Speak at SXSW Interactive 2010

andrew — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:37:19 +0000

SXSW is happy to be hosting speaker Dan Ariely, author of "Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions" at this year's Interactive festival. Ariely is a New York Times bestselling author, brilliant professor and inspired thinker. Professionally, Ariely serves as a Professor of Behavioral Economics at Duke University, a visiting professor at MIT and a founding member of the Center for Advanced Hindsight.

In his research, Ariely studies how people make decisions in real life and why their decisions often deviate from classic economic models. He said the goal of his book is to help people fundamentally rethink what makes them and the people around them tick. Ariely believes the better we understand our behaviors, the greater our chances to improve ourselves and possibly the human condition. Ariely’s immersive introduction to irrationality took place many years ago while overcoming injuries sustained in an explosion from which he suffered third-degree burns over 70 percent of his body. After recovering, Ariely wanted to understand how to better deliver painful yet unavoidable treatments to patients. Thus began Ariely’s research, and through his book he attempts to enrich the lives of others through his own insights.

As we mentioned, Ariely is in good company; we have confirmed that Paul Boag, David Heinemeier Hansson, Molly E. Holzschlag, Joi Ito, Clay Shirky and Gary Vaynerchuk will also be delivering solo presentations at SXSW Interactive 2010. Be sure to keep up with the Interactive homepage, we’ll be announcing first round of panel selections in October.

Contributed by Sarah Garcia.

128-Bit Party Bash "Steampünk Carnivalé" Keepin' It Weird at Austin GDC

andrew — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:54:04 +0000

Keepin' it weird is usually the job of the Austin locals. That is, until the IGDA came to town. As a grand finale for the Austin Game Developers Conference (AGDC), the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) Austin chapter decided to show us how's it's done by throwing the 128-Bit Party Bash, a Steampünk Carnivalé gaming industry mixer. The Digital Media Council helped sponsor AGDC along with ScreenBurn at SXSW, so expectations definitely ran high. And the event certainly didn't disappoint.

Nerds, geeks, and gamers alike needed no second invitation to cut loose at party of this magnitude, but the turnout at City Hall was amazing. It was impossible to keep from rubbing elbows with industry luminaries, like the folks at Gendai Games, who exhibited at the ScreenBurn at SXSW Arcade last March. City Hall teemed that night with the energy of gaming's hottest talent. When gamers come into town, one thing can be certain: the streets will be coded in L33t speak, and nerdiness is chic for at least a week.

Don't forget to take advantage of the early bird discount for ScreenBurn at SXSW by registering by midnight today for a SXSW Interactive, Gold or Platinum badge.

Contributed By Yurij Bryndzia.

Showcase Your Startup at SXSW: 2010 Accelerator Application Process

hugh — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:02:53 +0000

In March 2007, a little-known web application named Twitter debuted at the SXSW Interactive Festival, where it quickly gained the favor of the web's most cutting-edge thinkers. Want to reach that same crowd with your amazing new online creation? Then you should be part of the 2010 Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator event, where new startups and new products are showcased before a live audience of bankers, bloggers, mainstream media and other tech trendsetters.

Click here for the online application. Also, be sure to check out the winners of Accelerator 2009 to get a better feel of what this exciting competition is all about.

Image of the 2009 Accelerator showcase courtesy of Daniel Lewis.

Register By Midnight and Save up to 30%!

melissa — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:29:58 +0000

If you like to save money (and who doesn't?) then you'd better hurry, because today is the first registration deadline of SXSW 2010. Take advantage of the early bird discount by registering before 11:59pm Central. You can save up to 30% on the walk-up rate for all badges if you purchase your badge today.

And registering by the first deadline gets you an early crack at all the choice hotels in Austin. If you’ve got your heart set on your favorite property – the Hilton, Four Seasons, Radisson, Hyatt, Embassy Suites, Driskill, Omni, InterContinental, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton, Sheraton or another hotel close to the action – register now and book a reservation through the SXSW Housing Desk before these popular hotels sell out.

In addition to the registration deadline, today is also the last day for 20% off all marketing assets. At stake are hundreds and hundreds of dollars in possible savings on ads in SXSWorld Magazines and Conference Program Directories. An unparalleled marketing opportunity, these publications will be in the hands of the most important people in your industry. In addition to this, today is also the last day you can take advantage of the cheapest deals for Trade Show Stands. By purchasing a Trade Show Stand, you position yourself to be in direct contact with potential partners, clients, and / or customers. Contact one of our Sales Representatives to find out how you can benefit from these amazing deals.

30% ScreenBurn Marketing Discount Deadline Approaching This Friday

andrew — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 21:39:19 +0000

One of the perks to coming to SXSW is all the exposure you get as a business and professional. With that in mind, take note of this... you writing this down? Good.

Screenburn at SXSW is offering an incentive for anybody wishing to put themselves out there, but the deadline is coming up fast! Imagine getting the last cup of coffee in the break room fast... only faster.

September 25th (aka this Friday!) is the last day to get 30% off ScreenBurn Arcade and ScreenBurn Program Guide space. We were just talking to Michael Augustin from Gendai Games last week and he remarked about how the press Gendai received from participating in the ScreenBurn Arcade last March has leveraged their business and the game creation tool they debuted called GameSalad.

Doing business at ScreenBurn at SXSW boosts you and your company's needs to get the word out to the right people. So what are you waiting for? ScreenBurn is the perfect place to become a household name in the biz, and with us cutting y'all a break like this it's kind of a no-brainer.

Contributed by Yurij Bryndzia.

Photo of ScreenBurn Arcade courtesy of Jenn Soto.

What is SXSW: A Video

melissa — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:57:42 +0000

What is SXSW? Good question. Because SXSW is so many things to so many people, there is no simple answer. Trying to understand how the event works or the sheer size of it can be overwhelming. How do you convey 1,987 Music showcases, 912 Interactive speakers and 260 films in a few words?

We created the video below to give people unfamiliar with SXSW a chance to see the event before coming to Austin. If a picture is worth a thousand words, we hope this short film speaks volumes.

If you would like to see more SXSW events, informational videos, film trailers or music videos, be sure to check out the SXSW YouTube Channel.

danah boyd - lower case and bigger profile

Christine Auten — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:17:18 +0000

It's not too much of a stretch to say that one of SXSW Interactive's greatest assets is our roster of diverse and knowledgeable speakers. You have until the end of the day tomorrow to experience everything those speakers have to offer at our lowest possible price. Take advantage of our early-bird registration rate of just $395 and save $155 off the walk-up price.

Last week we announced the first round of what we expect to be over 700 speakers for the 2010 event, including Opening Speaker, and SXSW Interactive veteran, danah boyd. And, no, that's not a typo, the lack of capitalization is a choice, a choice that danah eloquently describes on her blog as one made for personal and political reasons. It took many years, but in 2000 she completed the paperwork to legally change her name, "i signed my new name change papers simply as i wanted to label myself, with an aesthetic appreciation for the spelling of my name, and with a unique flair that allowed me to truly hold on to my name as my own: danah michele boyd."

Photo of danah boyd at SXSW 2009 courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Columbia Begins Casting for Upcoming Facebook Film

andrew — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:01:00 +0000

Columbia Pictures and director David Fincher have officially announced the central cast of The Social Network, a film about the origins of Facebook. The script, adapted by Aaron Sorkin, focuses on the formation of Facebook by past SXSW Interactive speakers Mark Zuckerberg and Sean Parker.

The film will follow the social network's evolution and how its success affected the colleagues who created it. Director Fincher tapped Justin Timberlake to portray Sean Parker, co-founder of Napster and Facebook’s founding president, while Jesse Eisenberg will play Mark Zuckerberg. Andrew Garfield will play Eduardo Saverin, the Facebook co-founder who feuded with Zuckerberg as Facebook rose to powerhouse status.

This big screen adaptation isn’t the first Austin has seen of the Facebook founders, as both Zuckerberg and Parker have spoken at SXSW Interactive in the past. Parker spoke on a panel in 2001, discussing the future of peer-to-peer file sharing software. When BusinessWeek columnist Sarah Lacy interviewed Zuckerberg in 2008, some audience members were less than pleased, turning to yet another social medium to comment on her interviewing style. The backchannel that sprung up during the keynote created an interesting dynamic between the audience and the interviewer that contributed to the controversy of the event, making a big splash on Twitter and in the media.

Stay tuned to the Interactive homepage for more confirmed SXSW Interactive 2010 panelists in mid to late October.

Contributed by Sarah Garcia

Photo of Mark Zuckerberg speaking at SXSW Interactive 2008 courtesy of Jay West.

It’s About the Conference… Look, Listen, and Learn

russell — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:38:24 +0000

When you register for SXSW you’re getting a license to learn first-hand from industry notables with hard-won experience navigating the worlds of music, film, and interactive media. Registrants have countless opportunities to network with respected professionals at panels and other conference-related events.

At SXSW 2009 Quincy Jones regaled Music and Platinum badgeholders with insider stories from a multiple Grammy/Oscar/Emmy-award winning career in music, film, and television. For 2010—the SXSW Music Conference is using the online PanelPicker to generate panels programming based on the SXSW music community’s interests. A first-hand example of crowd-sourcing. The buzz in the music biz right now is direct-to-fan marketing and several companies at the 2010 Music Conference will address the different ways artists can establish and cultivate relationships with their fans without a middleman.

The SXSW Film Conference has played host to visionaries like Todd Haynes, Dennis Hopper, Guillermo del Toro, Richard Linklater, Michael Moore, Ron Howard, Robert Rodriguez, John Sayles – the list goes on. Our diverse program of Panels, Mentor Sessions (one-on-one), and Mini-Meetings will continue providing opportunities to get up close and personal with film industry leaders. And, new for 2010, we’re adding new Keynote Interviews that will provide in-depth discussions with ground-breaking filmmakers. Straight from the horse’s mouth.

The heart of the SXSW Interactive Festival has always been the exciting diversity of daytime programming and the dynamic speakers drawn to the event. SXSW Interactive’s first announced round of speakers for 2010 includes Opening Speaker danah boyd as well as DanAriely, Paul Boag, David Heinemeier Hansson, Molly E. Holzschlag, Joi Ito, Clay Shirky and Gary Vaynerchuck. In addition to our popular solo and dual presentations, panels, Core Conversations and Salons, the 2010 event will feature some exciting new types of sessions including workshops and a few other surprises.

The Conference is the thing… register before the March 25th registration discount deadline to look, listen, and learn at SXSW 2010.

Get in the Good Book

andrew — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:36:09 +0000

Filled with speaker bios and photos, maps, schedules, exhibitor profiles, official party listings and registrant directory - the Interactive Program Directory has everything you need to best navigate the festival. And we've got some new changes in store for the Directory this year that will make it even more of a keepsake.

It's also an excellent vehicle for getting your company's message directly into the hands of the thousands of key influencers who attend SXSW Interactive. And the best part? Enjoy 20% off the rates for advertising in the Program Directory through this Friday!

Contact katie@sxsw.com to learn how to get your message out.

Contributed by Katie King.

Ten Top Reasons For Your Boss To Send You To SXSW Interactive

shawn — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:36:58 +0000

As the economy tightens, it might be harder to convince your boss to send you to SXSW Interactive. Below are ten simple reasons SXSW Interactive is still the the best value for your business dollar. At SXSW Interactive you will...

Find Amazing Learning Opportunities. SXSW offers more than 200 panels and presentations covering everything from social media strategies and emerging business models to the latest in web design and development. The common thread for all these sessions is that you will gain greater insights into how creativity and new media are shaping the future.

Connect With Your Peers. Solidify your online network in the "real" world and establish long-term industry relationships. Learn from a diverse group of people who share your professional interests and personal passions.

Meet The Experts. Many of the worlds most creative thinkers gather in Austin for SXSW Interactive. Attending the event allows you to hear the newest ideas directly from the thought-leaders who are pushing the envelope.

Discover Business Solutions. Learn how emerging technology is changing business around the globe. Equip yourself to tackle industry issues and challenges. Find new ways to reach and develop your audience, and get great tips on how to accomplish all these goals on a tight budget. The Film + Interactive Trade Show features over 100 cutting-edge interactive businesses offering a wide array of tools and services that are sure to enhance your digital life.

Learn More With New Programming Options - In-Depth Workshops. The 2010 event will feature extended in-depth workshops on a variety of technical topics. These workshops will teach you the skills that will enable you be more productive at your place of business.

Participate and Contribute to the Community. In addition to the tremendous number of networking opportunities, more structured sessions such as Core Conversations, Salons and SXSW Clicks allow you to share your experience and insight with others.

Save Money on Registration. Why pay thousands and thousands of dollars to attend a technology event when the walk-up registration price for the SXSW Interactive Festival is just $550? You can save $155 on this walkup price if you register now -- the early bird price is just $395.

Recharge Your Creativity. The vast number of creative movers and shakers who are building the tools of tomorrow will inspire you with a renewed creativity you can use to inspire others throughout the year. Discover how others have channeled their creativity at the The 13th Annual SXSW Interactive Web Awards, Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator and the ScreenBurn at SXSW Game Design Competition.

Save Even More Money on Travel and Accommodation. Compared to other cities hosting tech conferences Austin, Texas is still cheap and easy to get to. Ideally situated between the US coasts, Austin is a diverse and progressive melting pot of artists, business professionals, digital creatives, venture capitalists and more. If you book your hotel room through the SXSW Housing Desk when you register, you'll save even more.

Tomorrow Happens Here. The tribe that gathers in Austin each March shapes the future like no other. Join this innovative community and you will have a long-term pipeline to some of the most cutting-edge thinking in the new media industry.

Photo of cash courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com and photo of the Hilton Hotel and Austin Convention Center from Kim Walker.

What Does It Mean To "Register" for SXSW?

Christine Auten — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:10:37 +0000

As you may have heard, we are coming up on our first early bird registration deadline for SXSW 2010. Register before the end of the day Friday, September 25 to receive great discounts on Music, Film, Interactive, Gold and Platinum badges. Some of this terminology may be confusing to those new to SXSW. So what exactly does it mean to "register" for a SXSW "badge," and what are the differences between the badges?

When you register to attend SXSW, you are purchasing your admittance to daytime events at the Austin Convention Center (panels, keynotes, Trade Show) as well as official events outside of the Austin Convention Center (ranging from Films to Music showcase to parties). Registering can be done online through the easy-to-use SXSW Shopping Cart (don't forget to take advantage of the SXSW Housing desk to book your accommodations in Austin). When you arrive in Austin, all you have to do is present a photo ID to redeem your badge, which will serve as your admittance to SXSW events. It's that simple.

Music, Film and Interactive badges give you access to each respective festival's programs and events. Purchase a Gold badge if you want to attend both the Interactive and Film Conference and Festival events. The Platinum badge, our most versatile option, is perfect if you want access to all three events.

Photo of registration courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Emmy Nod for Past SXSW Interactive Speaker

Christine Auten — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:45:15 +0000

Congratulations to past SXSW Interactive speaker Meredith Scardino for her 2009 Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing For A Variety, Music or Comedy Series as a member of the writing team for The Colbert Report. The team for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart took home the prize at last night's ceremony. The New York-based writer spoke on the hugely popular panel "Comedy on Television and the Web" along with Ricky Van Veen (CollegeHumor.com), B.J. Novak (The Office), Keith Richman (Break.com) and Avner Ronen (boxee.tv).

Prior to joining the writing team of Comedy Central's The Colbert Report, Meredith wrote for such shows as VH1's Best Week Ever and The Late Show with David Letterman. Before that, Meredith worked as an animator for independent filmmaker Bill Plympton and Comedy Central.com.

Check out our Past Speaker Page for a list of the other amazing speakers SXSW Interactive has played host to over the years. And stay tuned right here for speaker news and announcements for the 2010 event.

Photo of Meredith on the "Comedy on Television and the Web" panel by Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Friday, September 25 is the First Registration Deadline

hugh — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:22:31 +0000

Want to attend SXSW in 2010 for the least-expensive price possible? Then take advantage of the early bird discount by registering before the end of the day on Friday, September 25. You can save $155 on the walk-up rate for all Music, Film, Interactive and Gold badges, and save $305 on a Platinum badge, when you register by Friday.

That's right, you can see all the daytime programming, incredible Trade Shows, Music showcases, Film screenings, plus tons of amazing evening events at a steep discount if you register before Friday. So what are you waiting for?

Ryan Boulding Wins FREE Registration for SXSW

hugh — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:05:58 +0000

Kudos to Ryan Boulding (pictured at left), who has won himself a free registration for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. Currently living in Denver, Boulding works as a contributor with a web health startup FeelGoodNow.com and is also a filmmaker.

Boulding won the free registration by correctly answering the trivia question associated with the September edition of the SXSW Interactive Festival monthly newsletter. More specifically, he knew that the category that received the most proposals in the 2010 PanelPicker was "Community / Online Community" (with 673 total entries). Stay tuned to the SXSW website in October when we release the first round of panel confirmations, as chosen / voted on / curated from the PanelPicker.

Want to have your name in this space next month? Then sign-up here for your chance to win a free registration to the 2010 SXSW Interactive festival via the October e-mail newsletter, which is scheduled for release the week of Monday, October 5.

Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW Is Up and Running

andrew — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:56:27 +0000

The application process for Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator 2010 has begun, and already created quite a buzz with the online community. The deadline for entries is December 4, 2009 so don't miss out on your opportunity to be a part of this innovate new program. To be eligible, companies must have launched their product or service in the last year or plan to launch by May 2010. Entries must fit within one of four categories: Entertainment Technologies, Innovative Web Technologies, Social Media and Social Networking Technologies, Green / Non-Profit.

New for 2010, the Green / Non Profit category seeks to showcase technologies that make the world a better place, featuring non-profit initiatives, Government 2.0 technologies, energy efficiency applications and frameworks, “social media for the social good,” and more.

Click here for more in-depth information about all four Accelerator categories, and to learn more about how to participate in Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW. Also be sure to check out the 2009 recap page to learn more about the winners from the inaugural Accelerator event last spring.

Contributed By: Christine Auten

Photo of the 2009 Accelerator showcase by Daniel Lewis.

BlogWorld Haiku Contest Winner - Judalina Neira

andrew — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:51:42 +0000

Last year BlogWorld ran a giveaway contest for a badge to SXSW Interactive, which resulted in a very creative winning entry. We wanted to return the favor, so we ran a haiku contest this month, and it looks like we have a winner! When she's not crafting winning haikus, Judalina Neira is working on a web series called "Blogging Badly," which launches next January. Congratulations, Judalina, think of us when you are having a blast at BlogWorld. Her winning submission: Olivia Munn - / Eat your heart out / This tech girl's going to Vegas!

Contributed by: Tammy Lynn Gilmore

Programming Options: More Than Just Panels

Christine Auten — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:18:16 +0000

Yesterday we announced our first slew of solo presentation speakers for 2010, including Opening Speaker danah boyd. The heart of SXSW Interactive has always been the amazing speakers and diverse daytime programming, and there are many different types of sessions specifically crafted to present the information at hand in the most effective means possible.

Interviews, panels and dual presentations offer in-depth information to complement the solo presentations. The widely popular Core Conversations encourage participation in a more personal setting. Added to the mix in 2009, Salons offer an early evening option for less formal topics. Book Readings throughout each day highlight new releases from the Interactive community. And in 2010, we are looking to add even more new and exciting options to this mix.

Click here to see a list of all our amazing past speakers and stay tuned right here for the first round of session announcements in October. Can't wait until next spring to get great SXSW content? Check out podcasts and videos from the March 2009 event.

Photo of 2009 Nate Silver keynote interview by Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Three Reasons to Register by September 25th!

melissa — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:47:11 +0000

September 25th is the first SXSW registration deadline. Why register now -- with SXSW 2010 still six months away?

Three good reasons to act now:

Registration savings! SXSW badges will never be a better bargain than they are today. With savings of 20% - 30% off the walk-up registration fee the current badge price is an amazing value for the premier conference, festival, and trade exhibition of 2010. Whether you want a Platinum badge (for Music, Film, and Interactive), a Gold badge (for Film and Interactive), or a single industry badge (Music or Film or Interactive) – the price is right.

Hotel choices! With rooms blocked at over 50 hotels SXSW has ensured there will be plenty of accommodations for everyone. But if you’ve got your heart set on your favorite property – the Hilton, Four Seasons, Radisson, Hyatt, Embassy Suites, Driskill, Omni, InterContinental, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton, Sheraton or another hotel close to the action –register now and book a reservation through the SXSW Housing Desk before the most popular hotels sell out.

Cheap airfares! Major airlines are knocking down fares for travel in Spring 2010 but the sale won’t last long. Fare shop with your favorite airline or travel site and check out the bargains available from your hometown. Last time we looked roundtrip travel to Austin from New York and Los Angeles could be booked for under $250. It won’t get any cheaper than that.

The deadline is just around the corner, so register and book your hotel and travel before September 25th to save money and make 2010 your best South by Southwest experience ever.

Photo: Interior of the Driskill Hotel

"I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell"

andrew — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:56:00 +0000

Tucker Max, who previously spoke at SXSW Interactive in 2007 on "From Blog to Book," has now made it to the big screen. Tomorrow, September 18th, Tucker Max will be doing a free screening in Austin of his new movie "I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell" at the Galaxy Highland Theater. The Screening begins at 7:30, although he strongly encourages you to come early and enjoy the swag.

Contributed by: Kathryn Lasater

Photo by: Greg Dunaway

Magic Interactive Bus

andrew — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 22:04:23 +0000

Veterans of the SXSW Interactive Festival know that the official evening entertainment is not to be missed. These legendary Dionysian diversions are without peer. The Interactive Party Shuttle Bus remains one of the most unique ways to target SXSW Registrants. Each night, for five straight days, two vehicles run between the Hilton Hotel and the evening's official parties.

This unparalleled Premier Marketing Opportunity splashes your company's logo and artwork across the two Shuttle Buses. While the biggest selling point is no doubt the exposure to Interactive Registrants,
these Shuttle Buses will be making their way throughout the city streets each night and thus grant additional exposure to the tech-savy residents of Austin, Texas. While this is more than enough to entice the eager marketer, this opportunity offers much more. In addition to the sponsorship of the Shuttle Buses, each pick-up location will be appropriately adorned with custom branding for the lucky sponsor.

Jump on this bus early and contact Katie King at katie@sxsw.com to secure your sponsorship before it is too late.

Photo of Interactive Closing Party Hosted by Media Temple courtesy of Ran An.

Social Networking Expert danah boyd to Serve as 2010 Opening Speaker

hugh — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:25:34 +0000

The SXSW Interactive Festival is very excited to announce that danah boyd will serve as the Opening Speaker for the 2010 event. One of the world's foremost authorities on social networks, boyd works at Microsoft Research New England and also serves as a Fellow at the Harvard University Berkman Center for Internet and Society. boyd recently completed her PhD in the School of Information at the University of California-Berkeley. Her presentation will occur at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 13 at the Austin Convention Center.

Also confirmed to deliver solo presentations at the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival are Dan Ariely (author of "Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions" and a visiting professor at MIT), Paul Boag (founder of the award-winning British web design company Headscape and the driving force behind the boagworld.com podcast), David Heinemeier Hansson (a partner at 37signals.com, the creator of the web-application framework Ruby on Rails, and co-author of "Agile Web Development with Rails"), Molly E. Holzschlag (Web standards advocate, instructor, and author of more than 30 books including "The Zen of CSS Design"), Joi Ito (activist, entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and the CEO of Creative Common), Clay Shirky (author of "Here Comes Everybody: The Power of Organizing Without Organizations" and an adjunct professor at NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program), and Gary Vaynerchuk (the creator of Wine Library TV and the author of the soon-to-be-released book "Crush It: Why Now is the Time to Cash in On Your Passion").

We are planning for somewhere around 700 total speakers and more than 200 total sessions for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival, so look for many many many more names to be announced in mid-October when we release the first round of PanelPicker selections. Also, please remember that Friday, September 25 is the early-bird discount registration deadline for SXSW Interactive and that registering before this deadline will save you $155 on the walk-up price!

Photo of danah boyd courtesy of Gilad Lotan.

GDC Austin 2009: Game Industry Heavies Hit Austin

andrew — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 21:00:00 +0000

If you build it, they will come…

Anybody who's a somebody in the gaming biz will be here this upcoming week when the 2009 Austin Game Developers Conference kicks off today.

Downtown Austin will be running rampant with people from all over and from nearly all the gaming disciplines. GDC this year includes new tracks in Production and Programming, on top of the already-stellar lineup of sessions and keynotes throughout the week. Keep an eye out for Blizzard and Sony Online Entertainment, and Austin's own, Bioware, to steal the show.

They've even made it easy to plan out your schedule and make sure you catch all the buzz this year.

Everybody is eager for the action to start, since the hype has been steadily building up over the past few months. It seems perfectly clear that everybody from the bright-eyed newbies to the seasoned vets will be in attendance.

ScreenBurn at SXSW is one of the Media Partners for the Austin GDC, along with the IGDA (International Game Developers Association), and Edge Magazine to name a few big ones.

And if you needed anymore reason to go, here it is.

SXSW 101: How Do I Register and Book My Hotel?

andrew — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:56:06 +0000

The SXSW online registration system will lead you through the simple process of buying the badge of your choice. Confirmed SXSW attendees (registrants, exhibitors, etc.) then get access to the online Hotel Requester where they book their room through the SXSW Housing Desk.

Because SXSW is the single busiest week for hotels in Austin, SXSW has blocked over 8,500 rooms at 50 different hotels at the best rates exclusively for SXSW attendees. Check out hotel availability and rates online.

For more general SXSW information, check out more of our SXSW 101 series of posts.

Learn to Do it Yourself at the DIY Summit on September 17

andrew — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:00:00 +0000

The DIY Summit Series is a fun and convenient way to build your skill set without having to leave your computer. The one-day virtual conference features new presentations beginning at the top of every hour. This year's speakers include Brian Fling, Kelly Goto and Lea Alcantara, all past speakers at SXSW Interactive. Topics will range from interface design and content management to Ruby on Rails and the ever-important art of self-branding.

Whether you are a freelancer, an in-house creative team of one, or a creative director curious about trying something new, the DIY summit is for you. Don’t miss your chance to benefit from the knowledge, skill and insight of some of the rock stars of the web design industry. Register now and discover new design solutions for the one-person web team.

Application Process Now Open for Accelerator 2010

hugh — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:32:03 +0000

Got an amazing new service, product, or application that you want to showcase to all the technology trendsetters who come to Austin in March? If so, then you should know that the entry process for Microsoft BizSpark Accelerator at SXSW is now open. This competition provides an amazing outlet for companies to demonstrate their cutting-edge creativity before an influential audience of industry professionals, venture capitalists, mainstream media, bloggers and other top decision-makers. Click here for complete eligibility information and to access the online application form.

Also be sure to check out the 2009 recap page to learn more about the winners from the inaugural Accelerator event this past spring.

Thirsty for Business?

val — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 21:44:56 +0000

They say that you can lead a horse to water, but you can not make the horse drink. For a few weeks now, we have been highlighting some marvelous deals. Fortunately, all the "horses" out there are seeing these deals on display and cannot help themselves. They have been drinking them up!

We are, however, a charitable bunch, one that is quite adverse to having others miss out on these great opportunities. Unfortunately, they are fading quickly. August has already disappeared and September will quickly follow suit. You do not want to miss out on this last chance at HUGE savings. Act now and you can save as much as 50% on the list rates for the SXSWORLD Magazines and Conference Program Directories. This is a savings of hundreds of dollars!

September 25th is the last day to drink the pristine water, you must act now before it is too late. Contact one of our Sales Representatives today.

SXSW 2010: Two More Weeks To Save $155 on Registration Fees

hugh — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 21:24:19 +0000

The SXSW Interactive Festival offers more than 200 panel sessions, four days of keynote presentations, an engaging Trade Show, Accelerator, the ScreenBurn Arcade, tons of evening activities, plus incredible networking with uber-creative technology trendsetters (as well as leaders from the Film industry and the Music industry). You can enjoy all the benefits of SXSW Interactive for just $395 if you pay your fees before the Friday, September 25 early-bird registration deadline.

Said another way, this early-bird deadline saves you $155 on the walk-up rate. Moreover, registering now gets you the best selection of downtown hotel properties. Sign up now and enjoy the savings!!

Migrate to the Midwest for the MIMA Summit on October 5, 2009

andrew — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:38:32 +0000

The MIMA Summit is the premiere interactive marketing event in the Midwest, offering a full day of presentations from top interactive marketers and networking opportunities. Nearly 1,000 people are anticipated to attend this year's conference in Minneapolis which will feature keynote presenters Seth Godin and Jackie Huba, 35 sessions, and more than 50 speakers on interactive marketing trends.

This one-day event attracts professionals from design, media, content development, product development, publishing, marketing, usability, and experience design. The Summit allows interactive marketing professionals to come together, share ideas, geek out, get professionally energized and generally have a good time. If interactive marketing is part of your job or interests, then register to join in on this important event!

The Trade Show is Where It's At

andrew — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:56:54 +0000

Blurb, LaCie, Sun Microsystems, Bluelounge, Mimoco and Spiceworks are just a few of the cutting-edge companies already confirmed for the 2010 Film + Interactive Trade Show taking place March 13-15.

The Trade Show is the business hive at SXSW Interactive. Be sure to be there. For information on getting your company into the Trade Show, contact katie@sxsw.com.

Photo of the tradeshow courtesy of Jojo Marion.

PanelPicker Voting Closed: First Programming Announcements in October

hugh — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:38:56 +0000

As of 11:59 pm CST on Monday, September 7, voting has closed for the 2010 PanelPicker. Now comes the difficult task of analyzing all the data amassed over the last few weeks, as well as reviewing the programming recommendations from the SXSW Advisory Board and the SXSW Staff. So, whether you submitted an idea to the PanelPicker or you are just an interested observer, look for the first round of SXSW 2010 panel announcements to appear on the website in mid to late October.

Thanks again to all the members of the web community who participated in this year's voting process!

London Digital Week Is Coming to the East End September 21-27, 2009

andrew — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:53:16 +0000

London Digital Week is a week of conferences, workshops, meet-ups, presentations, networking, parties and exhibitions bringing together the digital-orientated industries in and around London under one umbrella event. LDW aims to further the understanding of digital, to share knowledge within the industry and to showcase the best work of companies, groups and individuals in London and the UK to the rest of the world.

This event covers digital marketing, interaction design, advertising, planning, strategy, branding, social media, gaming, television, film, post production, motions graphics, mobile, publishing and more. If you work in any of these industries, would like to, or perhaps have something to say to those people, then you should be getting involved with London Digital Week!

PanelPicker Voting Deadline Extended Through Weekend

hugh — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:46:26 +0000

If you still haven't voted for your favorite proposals on the SXSW PanelPicker interface, then you are in luck. We have decided to keep the voting interface up and running through the Labor Day weekend -- but the gates will absolutely close at 11:59 CST on Monday evening, September 7. Don't forget to use the search options button and the hot list functionality (at the top left corner of the interface) to help filter through submissions.

Make sure to browse all the cool ideas that have been suggested for the SXSW Film Conference, SXSW Music Conference, and SXSW Interactive Festival. Happy Labor Day weekend of PanelPicker voting!

SXSW Stories: Stephanie Agresta

andrew — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 17:18:42 +0000

One of our goals each year is to give our registrants spaces to interface with each other, foster ideas, and grow as a community. Whether online before the event, on my.SXSW, during the event at a party, in the middle of a Core Conversation, or in a lounge, we want you to connect with others in the industry. Today, Stephanie Agresta, co-founder of the Techset, shares her experiences of SXSW Interactive and hosting the Techset Blogger Lounge.

"SXSW Interactive is fueled by the strength of the community. We make this annual pilgrimage to foster the real-life connection that drives our understanding of market trends, creates new business opportunities and enhances the products and services which we develop. For me, there was no better place to find that community on display at this year’s festival than in the Techset Blogger Lounge sponsored by Windows Mobile. The blogger lounge was a non-stop hub of creative activity and networking.

The Austin Suite on the 3rd floor of the convention center served as the local town square and everyone stopped in!"

Stephanie Agresta, Co-Founder - the TechSet

Photo of the Techset Blogger Lounge courtesy of Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

LAFlashapaloozastock IV in Venice Beach October 3

andrew — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 16:14:55 +0000

LA Flashapaloozastock is a one-day free event in Venice Beach that has it all... presentations from some of the leading Flash designers and developers, a killer party, exhibitors, and a great vibe. Lots of fun stuff will be going down, as well as a chance to network with your peers and meet the companies looking for talent. Confirmed presenters include Joshua Davis, Big Spaceship, Adobe, and Autodesk, so come join us for this FREE event!

Friday Deadline: One More Day for 2010 PanelPicker Voting

hugh — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:07:37 +0000

What programming and speakers do you want to see at the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. You've got one more day to contribute your two cents to this process by voting on your favorite proposals via the PanelPicker voting interface (and if a particular idea really captures your attention, then be sure to write a few words in the comments section of this proposal).

The polls close at 11:59 pm CST on Friday, September 4 -- so don't miss out on your chance to weigh in on the look and feel of SXSW 2010.

Write a Haiku and Win a FREE Registration to Blog World Expo 2009

andrew — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:29:52 +0000

SXSW Interactive is giving away a full-access registration to the upcoming Blog World and New Media Expo event in Las Vegas, Nevada from October 15-17, 2009 to one creative reader. To enter, submit a haiku about why you want to attend BlogWorld Expo to interpress@sxsw.com using the subject line "BlogWorld Expo giveaway" by Thursday, September 10, 2009.

BlogWorld is is the first and only industry-wide tradeshow, conference, and media event dedicated to promoting the dynamic industry of new media. If you aren't the poetic type, be sure to register online by September 14 to take advantage of discount pricing on registration, hotels and to get an additional 20% off by using the discount code "SOUTH20."

PanelPicker 2010: Remember to Browse Music and Film

hugh — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:45:47 +0000

One of the big changes for the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker is that we are now using this interface to help determine programming for all three events that are part of SXSWeek. So, after you have browsed the 2200+ proposals for SXSW Interactive, please take a few minutes to browse the entries that were submitted for SXSW Film and those that were submitted for SXSW Music.

Clicking on the proposals for these two other events provides even more evidence of how much new media thinking is reshaping these two traditional industries. Finally, when browsing all of these proposals, remember to use the "search options" button to more easily find the exact topics that interest you most.

PanelPicker Lists: Cool Ways to Find Your Favorite Content

hugh — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:02:37 +0000

One of the neat things about the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker is that so many folks have created lists of their favorite panel proposals.

For instance, our friends at Chinwag put together this extensive catalogue of sessions submitted by new media professionals from the United Kingdom.

If web design is your thing, then check out this list of some of the top proposals in the PanelPicker that are focused on this topic.

Finally, special thanks to Alexander Samuel for compiling "SXSW WonderWomen: Ten Women Speakers to Look for at SXSW 2010".

Have you got a PanelPicker list that we don't know about yet? If so, then please e-mail us to give us the lowdown.

Austin Hotels - Something For Everyone

adrienne — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:31:13 +0000

SXSW registrants who act now will get in on the best available rates to hang their hat and rest their head at one of Austin’s great downtown hotels. With 15 hotels within walking distance of the Austin Convention Center and Sixth Street clubs you can choose from a range of hotel styles to find the one that suits you best. Visit our online list of available hotels — and decide which is for you: luxury, business-friendly, all-suites, historic, and more.

For the budget-savvy traveler, 35 hotels are available just outside the downtown core. Take advantage of lower room rates and forget about cab fares — buy an unlimited ride pass for the R&R/SXSW Hotel Shuttle for just $40 for 5 days (or $60 for all 9 days of SXSW). During SXSW Music the shuttle will service all outlying hotels and during Interactive/Film it will service a smaller group. To see a list of hotel shuttle services click here.

Remember, only confirmed SXSW attendees (registrants, exhibitors, panelists, festival artists, etc.) can get the negotiated SXSW hotel rate and by registering as soon as possible you have the best chance of getting your preferred hotel. When you register the online system will take you to the Hotel Requester to make your reservation. You can find more information at sxsw.com/hotels or email a live human being at housing@sxsw.com.

All it Takes is Vision...and SXSW

val — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 21:31:31 +0000

SXSW continues to forge new paths in music, film and technology. Each year brings new talent and new ideas to the forefront of each respective medium. Sponsorship of SXSW provides a singular chance to impress a cross section of emerging industry leaders.

Often, a desire to market a product or business exists, but a complete vision of achievement does not. In 2009, PepsiCo wed their marketing desires with a forward thinking advertising model to create the PepsiCo Podcast Playground during the SXSW Interactive Festival. This unique concept sought to provide Festival Registrants with a place to directly produce podcasts. In addition to this, PepsiCo also provided WiFi and power utilities for all attendees to utilize. PepsiCo offset this confluence of cutting edge technology in the Podcast Playground with old fashioned refreshment service at their fully stocked beverage bar.

As noted in the advertising blog, BrandFreak, the convergence of communications and colas proved wildly successful.

"Overall, Pepsi has put together a very impressive presence at the conference. They're flexing their social media muscle and technical prowess, which certainly generates a good response from this audience. It's eye candy, for sure, but it's not just artifice either. They've definitely done their homework."

Obtaining a unified vision of purpose and execution as a sponsor of SXSW is easy. Just contact our Sponsorship representative, Scott McNearney and let him help you become established as a visionary sponsor of SXSW.
Photo: PepsiCo Podcast Playground by Margaret Licarione

PanelPicker Hot Button: Another Way to Filter the Top Proposals

hugh — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:27:07 +0000

With more than 2600 total entries, how do you find the proposals that most interest you on the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker? One good strategy is to use the "search options" button, which allows you to browse ideas by name, title, business name, category or comments. Another approach is to use the new "Hot" button located at the top left corner of the PanelPicker interface.

Clicking on this button will give you a list of 60 proposals that are currently scoring well with other users in Interactive, Music and Film . Click on this button again and you will get 60 more ideas that are getting lots of buzz. Whatever your favorite method for filtering, please don't delay too much longer. PanelPicker voting ends on Friday, September 4.

Win a Free SXSW Registration by Subscribing to the SXSW Monthly E-mail Newsletter

hugh — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:44:57 +0000

Friday, September 25 is the deadline for early-bird registration pricing for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. But, before you pay for a registration, why not try to win one for free? Do this by subscribing to the SXSW monthly e-mail newsletter, which is a convenient way to keep abreast of all the programming, events and excitement scheduled for next spring.

Each edition of the listserve also contains an easy-to-answer trivia question related to some aspect of SXSW. Answer this trivia question correctly, and your name will go into the hopper for the FREE registration to the March 2010 event. Sign-up today if you want to get in on the winnings -- the next edition of this information-packed listserve is scheduled for release on Tuesday, September 1.

One More Week for 2010 PanelPicker Voting

hugh — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:04:24 +0000

What do you think are the best ideas submitted to the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker? We want your opinions -- and we want them soon! Remember, the voting process ends at 11:59 CST on Friday, September 4. That's one week from today. In addition to your votes, we also welcome you to comment on what you like (and what you don't like) about specific panel ideas. As always, we remind you to use the "search options" button (located just beneath the PanelPicker banner) to more easily find the exact topics that interest you most.

SXSW DJ Madness: 2009 Accelerator Finalist Mugasha Launches

hugh — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:45:15 +0000

Congrats to the Portland, Oregon-based music startup Mugasha, which launched last week. As noted on its About Us page, this application "makes it really easy to listen to Electronic Music podcasts and long sets from world famous DJs. Think of us as Hulu.com for some of the most popular dance music sets in the world. We 'chop up' the sets to enable users to easily skip and browse through the songs in each set."

Mugasha was also one of the four finalists in the audio category at the 2009 Accelerator competition at SXSW Interactive. Stay tuned to the Accelerator page for more details on how your cool startup can be involved in the 2010 event at SXSW.

2010 SXSW Interactive PanelPIcker: By the Numbers

hugh — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 20:20:40 +0000

At last count, more than 2200 proposals have been submitted to the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker. These ideas have come from industry experts and cutting-edge geeks from across the US and around the world. Clicking on the "search options" button (on the front page of interface) and browsing the "category" field yields some enlightening feedback about the current state of the tech industry.

What's the most popular tag for this year's submission? That would be "Community / Online Community", which was the tag used on 641 of these 2200 proposals. Next on the list is "Social Networking" which weighs in at 586. The third most popular tag is even more revealing. Despite the weak economy in which we now live, "Business / Entrepreneurial / Monetization" ranks third on the PanelPicker list with 541 entries.

Also fascinating is the relative popularity of new categories, such as "Cloud Storage / Delivery" and "Sports 2.0".

One way or another, there's a lot to learn about the current new media landscape by playing around on this interface. Remember that voting remains open through Friday, September 4.

PanelPicker: How-To (A Video Guide)

andrew — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:49:31 +0000

Last week we took you inside the SXSW PanelPicker with the video "PanelPicker: An Inside View." This week we continue the process with "PanelPicker: How-To," a step-by-step video guide to the PanelPicker voting process. Do I need to sign-up to vote? How do I create an account? How can I find what I'm looking for in the PanelPicker? How do I vote for my favorite ideas? You'll find the answers here. Special thanks to our good friends at Trigger Studios!

And, be sure to check out the new HotList feature, which allows you to browse ideas that are trending well for SXSW Interactive, as well as for SXSW Music and SXSW Film.

Washington DC MGFest 2009

andrew — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:33:19 +0000

Get ready for the Washington DC MGFest 2009 November 19-22, which will showcase explosive artists and motion picture creators including: Shepard Fairey, Nine Inch Nails, David Byrne, Chuck D of Public Enemy, KRS-One, Addictive TV, Digital Kitchen, The Mill, Passion Pictures, Animal Logic, Post Panic, Dvein, David Lobser and more. With a Persuasion in Media Panel, hands-on workshops, a creative remix party, and a call for entries DC MGFest has something for everyone.

2010 PanelPicker: More Entries Accepted on August 26

hugh — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 20:56:12 +0000

Want to get your proposal onto the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker? While the formal deadline for submitting ideas was July 12, late-comers to the party will be accepted beginning Wednesday, August 26.

So, if you have a great idea for a panel or a solo presentation, then e-mail us -- on Wednesday, August 26 we will send you the special log-in information that will allow you to submit your idea. On the other hand, if you just like to browse the 2000+ entries that we've already got in the system, remember that voting continues through Friday, September 4. Anyone can vote, just sign-up for a free account and you are set to go!

We Are Accepting SXSW Web Awards Entries!

andrew — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:56:19 +0000

Are you doing some new and cutting edge things with web design? Have you created a CSS masterpiece that others should bow to? Wanna win a kick-ass trophy?

If you answered yes to any or all of the above, then you should enter your website in the 13th Annual SXSW Web Awards. If you created or worked on a website that was launched in 2009 then your site is eligible for the competition.

Just head on over to the Web Awards Section of Interactive site to learn more about the competition, categories and Web Awards Ceremony. You can also browse finalists and winners from last year's competition.

The early entry deadline is October 16, so hurry and enter your site now.

Photo of Kevin Nguyen and Nick Martens of The Bygone Bureau accepting the award for best blog at the 2009 SXSW Web Awards by Mary Sledd- www.marysledd.com.

Getting the Most out of PanelPicker

melissa — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:16:04 +0000

There's been a lot of talk about the SXSW PanelPicker. You may have already seen the tweets, blog posts, status updates, emails, etc. from your friends asking for your support for their SXSW panel submission in the PanelPicker. And you wonder, "What IS this PanelPicker everyone's talking about?"

Well, wonder no more! SXSW has teamed up with our good friends at Trigger Studios to bring you "PanelPicker: An Inside View." This video is a handy-dandy guide to this simple-to-use online tool.

Stay tuned right here for the next installment, "PanelPicker: How-To," for step-by-step instructions on how use the PanelPicker to be a greater part of SXSW 2010.

Also, check out our Thumbs Up page to get PanelPicker buttons for your blog or website and spread the word about your panel proposal.

Jediah Cummins Wins FREE Registration for SXSW

hugh — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:05:11 +0000

Our hearty congratulations go to Jediah Cummins, who has won himself a free registration for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival.

A graduate student pursuing his Masters in Higher Education Administration at Texas Tech University, Cummins an alum of the University of Northern Colorado with a bachelors in Physics and Computer Science. He is also founder of the Lubbock Tweetup.

Cummins won the free registration to next year's event because he correctly answered the trivia question in the August edition of the SXSW e-mail newsletter. More specifically, he knew that PanelPicker voting from the general public accounts for 30% of the decision-making process on 2010 programming.

Also significant in the decision-making process is feedback from the SXSW Advisory Board (40%) as well as the input of the SXSW Staff (30%).

Want to have your name in this space next month? Then sign-up here for your chance to win a FREE registration to the 2010 SXSW Interactive festival via the September e-mail newsletter, which is scheduled for release the week of Monday, September 7.

SXSW 101: How Old is SXSW?

andrew — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:08:13 +0000

Well that all depends on which portion of SXSW you're talking about. The SXSW Music Conference and Festival was launched in 1987.

In 1994, SXSW added the SXSW Film and Multimedia Conference to its lineup because of the growth of the film and tech industries in Austin. Just a year later, Multimedia grew into its own event and four years after that, in 1999, SXSW Multimedia became SXSW Interactive.

Over 23 years SXSW has grown in size and scope – from 700 SXSW Music attendees in 1987 to nearly 25,000 individuals from 50 countries for all three events in 2009. And it's now an immersive day and night experience.

In short, SXSW is the best place to be every March if you’re interested in Music, Interactive Media, or Film.

Photo of Limpopo at SXSW '94 by Martha Grenon.

PanelPicker Voting Has Begun!

andrew — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:20:20 +0000

The day you've all been waiting for is here. Today you get to give us your input on what content you'd like to see at SXSW in 2010 via the SXSW PanelPicker.

For the first time, we opened up the PanelPicker to Music, Film and Interactive. And the community came through with over 2600 panel submissions. Since we can't accept them all, it's up to the community to let us know which sessions they think will be a good fit for the 2010 event. The community's votes will account for 30% of the panel selection process.

To get started, create a FREE PanelPicker account and start browsing. You can give a "thumbs up," "thumbs down," and leave comments on each panel. If you have any questions about how voting works, take a gander at the PanelPicker FAQ.

Community voting in the SXSW PanelPicker closes on September 4.

SXSW Stories: Jordan Stolper

andrew — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:00:34 +0000

We find it hard, sometimes, to explain the type of experience people have at SXSW every year. Maybe because we're biased, maybe because we're too close to the event. So it's best if we let those who attend SXSW tell it for us. Today Jordan Stolper, CEO of gliider, shares one of his.

"Starting up an internet company is a lonely, ego-bruising affair. At SXSW I learned not to take it all so personally. The path to creation is a bumpy one, marked by setbacks and triumphs both large and small. Listening to the guys from Dogster talk about how they manage people through the ups and downs in their business helped us prepare to do the same. Learning how Jason Black thinks about his company’s culture has inspired us to adopt our own set of core values. But the best part of SXSW wasn’t on the schedule. It was, in a word: openness, that rare ability to listen closely to new, compelling and provocative ideas without glancing around for a better conversation. Openness made it possible for me and my co-founder, Jared Richardson to connect with so many interesting and interested people. Those relationships are what we’ll take away from SXSW, and what we’ll look forward to nurturing as gliider enters its infancy."

Jordan Stolper, CEO - gliider

PanelPicker Voting Launches Monday, August 17

hugh — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:55:17 +0000

Thanks again to the thousands of members of the SXSW online community who have submitted panel and solo presentation proposals for next spring's event. To this end, the 2010 PanelPicker voting application is now set to launch on Monday, August 17 (this is a week later than initially scheduled -- all good things come to those who wait). We've added a few new twists to the voting process for 2010, which we think will continue to improve the usability and functionality (and fun!) of this process.

Also, remember that the PanelPicker is now being used to help program panels for all three SXSW events -- Interactive, Music and Film. Stay tuned to this website for more information on the big launch next week!

Welcome to SXSW Interactive 2010!

hugh — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:12:15 +0000

The launch of our new and improved website marks the official beginning of the 2010 season for the SXSW Interactive Festival. Special thanks to our friends at Sibley/Peteet Design in Austin for developing this year's look and feel. As for the 2010 site, we hope our new design offers a more intuitive and user-friendly experience. Stay tuned as we continue to add new content and information in the coming weeks.

REGISTER NOW FOR LOWEST RATES
Click here for your best deals on registration rates. Cost to attend SXSW Interactive is just $395 though September 25, which is a $155 savings off the walk-up price. And when you pay your registration fee, be sure to book a hotel room via the SXSW Housing Desk. Remember that hotel rooms closest to the Austin Convention Center tend to sell out quickly -- so act now while there is still availability.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
SXSW Interactive provides a great environment for your company, product or service to create more buzz with some of new media's pre-eminent leaders. Click here for complete details on sponsorships, premiere marketing opportunities, the Trade Show, the Program Book, inserts and other marketing opportunities. Buy now to ensure the best selection and values of the season.

ENTER OUR COMPETITIONS
SXSW is also now accepting applications for the 2010 Web Awards as well as the ScreenBurn Game Design Competition. Also, stay tuned to the SXSW Interactive site in the next few weeks for more information on how your new business venture can be involved with the 2010 Accelerator event. Launched in the spring of 2009, Accelerator showcases new media's latest entrepreneurial projects.

PANELPICKER VOTING ON AUGUST 17
As for daytime programming content, the PanelPicker voting application is scheduled to launch on Monday, August 17. Over the last few years, this application has helped SXSW Interactive tap into the collective creativity and wisdom of the SXSW Interactive community. And what a collection it is -- this year's PanelPicker voting application will feature more than 2200 amazing ideas.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS
Sure, spring is a long way away, but we can already feel the excitement beginning to build for next year's event. Over the last few months, the SXSW staff have discussed and implemented lots of changes that we think will amount to an even more beneficial and enjoyable experience for the thousands of industry innovators who are part of the event. Keep watching this website for all the important details!

- Hugh Forrest, SXSW Event Director

Planning Ahead Pays Off Big at SXSW

val — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:52:11 +0000

The time is now. Time to start thinking about your trade show stand, targeted advertising, creative bag inserts, singular sponsorships and more. Yes, we know that the festival is seven months away and while that seems like a long time - it's right around the corner.

The smart folks at Blurb know the benefits of planning early. "SXSW represents a huge opportunity for the Blurb brand. The creative community we're able to engage with at this event is like a cross section of our core audiences," said Mike Barash, marketing director at Blurb and Steel Panther enthusiast. "Signing up early is key, and gives us the time to really maximize our presence at SXSW, which grows every year. For us, the booth is our anchor point but only the beginning of the total Blurb experience at SXSW."

Save big on Trade Show Stands, Program Directory Advertising and Big Bag Inserts by taking 20% off the listed rates through September 25, 2009. How will your company make an impact at SXSW this year?
Photo Courtesy of Jojo Marion.

First-Timers Guide to SXSW: Registration

melissa — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:37:26 +0000

Everyone's first SXSW can be a little overwhelming. With hundreds of panel sessions, two trade shows, more than 300 film screenings and nearly 2,000 performing musical acts, anyone could feel a little out of their element. So for you, our new friend (and some of you veterans who might have forgotten a thing or two), we've started the "First-timers Guide" for SXSW. On the guide, we'll explain things like the difference between a badge and registration (hint: they're the same thing), what you should plan on for your first day, how to navigate Austin and what other things you can expect to experience when you get here.

First step to SXSW for everyone - not just beginners - you need to register and book your hotel. You'll get the best rate on your badge if you buy now, not to mention the best selection of hotels SXSW has to offer.

What kind of badge should you get? It depends on what you want to see. SXSW consists of three conferences and festivals spread over ten days. You can attend any of the three conferences separately, Music, Film, and Interactive. You can also combine conferences (Film + Interactive = Gold and Music + Film + Interactive = Platinum). Click the links to find out more about each conference and festival.

Still not sure if you're ready to attend SXSW 2010? No problem. Click here for more information and tips about attending SXSW for your first time. We'll update the guide as we get closer to March with what you need to know to make your first SXSW successful, so check back soon.

Alamo Ritz and crowd photo courtesy of Jeff Picard

Extended Content - Mix & Match: A New Model for Engaging Fans

andrew — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:43:59 +0000

In the latest SXSW Extended Content installment, we have MixMatchMusic's video called "Mix & Match: A New Model for Engaging Fans." In this video, you can learn tips for extending your fan base.

For more on the Extended Content summer series, check out the first edition.

Here is today's Extended Content video, "Mix & Match: A New Model for Engaging Fans":

Re-Designed SXSW Website Launches Monday, August 3

hugh — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:56:01 +0000

The 2010 season for SXSW officially begins on Monday, August 3 with the launch of our re-designed website. We are very excited about our new look for 2010 -- and we think that you will also enjoy / benefit from the many changes and additions to the site.

Monday, August 3 also marks the first day you can officially register for the 2010 event (which is scheduled Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 21).

Finally, if you want to make sure you have access to all the available hotel properties during SXSW, then be sure to register and reserve your room when the new site opens on Monday, August 3.

Extended Content - Mix & Match: A New Model for Engaging Fans

andrew — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:45:09 +0000

In the latest SXSW Extended Content installment, we have MixMatchMusic's video called "Mix & Match: A New Model for Engaging Fans." In this video, you can learn tips for extending your fan base.

For more on the Extended Content summer series, check out the first edition.

Here is today's Extended Content video, "Mix & Match: A New Model for Engaging Fans":

Vampire-Con Glamours Hollywood

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:09:54 +0000

Vampire-Con is the world’s first annual convention devoted solely to vam-pop culture happening August 14-16, 2009 in Hollywood, CA. With only a grass-roots budget, Vampire-Con has been almost wholly advertised through social networking sites and blogs.

V-Con offers a two-day film festival with classic fare and a special midnight screening of Midnight Son from Executive Producer Eduardo Sanchez, the visionary behind The Blair Witch Project, as well as panel discussions during the day. By nightfall, Vampire-Con will host an 18+ danse macabre, “Vampirella’s Ball”, paying homage to the 40th anniversary of the sexy comic book icon, featuring a special late night guest DJ set by Gary Calamar (Grammy-Nominated Producer and the music supervisor of TRUE BLOOD).

Enter the darkness of Vampire-Con and find your inner vampire.

Extended Content - Licensing For Tangled Mediums

andrew — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 20:52:07 +0000

This edition of the SXSW Interactive Extended Content series features Alex Holz and Duncan Hutchinson explain licensing in the crazy world of mixed media.

Check out the podcast here »

For more on our Extended Content program, check out the first post.

Extended Content - Firefox Extensions: Steriods For Web Applications

andrew — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:20:32 +0000

In our latest installment of the SXSW Interactive Extended Content series, Tim Rosenblatt discusses the wide world of Firefox extensions and what they can do for you.

Check out the podcast here »

For more on our Extended Content program, check out the first post.

And the 2009 Web Award Goes To... The Cycle

Mattenea — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 19:56:51 +0000

Category: Educational Resources - From elementary school learning to advanced technology-related tips, these are sites that help you learn. Winner: The Cycle

Ever wonder what actually happens to that pickle jar after you put it in the recycling bin? Check out the 2009 Web Award winner in the Educational Resource category to find out. SXSW's Kelly Willis talks with The Cycle's Chris Erickson, Jono Stark, Monique Hartl on the Red Carpet of the 12th Annual SXSW Web Awards Ceremony about their creative project aimed at educating the public about every conceivable step in the recycling process.

You can catch this and other highlights from SXSW 2009 at the SXSW YouTube Channel.

Be sure to check out all the finalists for the 12th Annual SXSW Web Awards Presented by Adobe. And don't forget, if you think you might have an award-worthy site, the submission process for the 2010 Web Awards opens on August 3rd, 2009.

Linux Against Poverty Installfest - August 1st

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:20:41 +0000

What's even better than recycling your old computer? Donate it to a good cause!

Linux Against Poverty started with the simple premise: In every city you can find 1) decommissioned computers waiting to be taken to Goodwill or, worse yet, the dump, 2) children who don't have a computer at home, 3) an ample supply of Linux enthusiasts who would gladly triage these machines, install Linux on them and pass them on to those children, and 4) an army of volunteers who would take a few hours each month to serve as mentors.

The goal of Linux Against Poverty is to help connect the dots.

The first Linux Against Poverty Installfest will be held in Austin on August 1st. Over 50 volunteers are ready and waiting on the various install teams, but they need more computers!

Find out more about their current needs and drop off locations on the donation page. For sponsorship opportunities, contact lynnbender@geekaustin.org.

Extended Content - The Real Estate Crisis: How to Thrive Online

andrew — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 20:37:06 +0000

In our Extended Content installment today, we have a video on how you can be successful in the real estate market online, even during these down economic times.

For more on the Extended Content summer series, check out the first edition.

Here is today's Extended Content video, "The Real Estate Crisis: How to Thrive Online":

And the 2009 Web Award Goes To... Lost Zombies

melissa — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:04:02 +0000

Category: Community - Social networks and wikis that have quickly developed an extraordinarily active multi-user community and an exceptional following of users who assist with content development. Category: People's Choice - The online public's favorite finalist site from the competition. Voting begins when the finalists are revealed in late January. Winner: Lost Zombies

Who doesn't like zombies, right? That's what Ryan Leach, Skot Leach and Rob Oshima banked on when they launched the site that would take home Web Awards in both the Community and People's Choice categories. They talk with Kelly Willis on the Red Carpet of the 12th Annual Web Awards Ceremony about creating the worlds first user-generated zombie documentary. Apparently the Zombie Apocalypse is becoming more of a reality every day.

You can catch this and other highlights from SXSW 2009 at the SXSW YouTube Channel.

2010 Panelpicker: Proposal Deadline Extended Through Sunday Night

melissa — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:21:51 +0000

Many thanks to all the members of the SXSW community who have sent in 2010 programming proposals to the PanelPicker. We are excited about the quality of the ideas we've received.

And due to the huge volume of submissions in the last 24 hours, we have decided to extend the deadline to 11:59 pm CST on Sunday evening, July 12.

That's right, the PanelPicker interface will be open all weekend for all your last-minute programming proposals.

As always, we encourage you to read the FAQ before sending in your panel idea.

Stephen Torrence Wins FREE Registration for SXSW

hugh — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:52:58 +0000

Kudos to Stephen Torrence (pictured at left), who has won himself a free registration for the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. A student in Philosophy and General Studies at Texas Tech University, Torrence is heavily involved in campus media via the school paper, the Daily Toreador. He also produces his own podcast, which is appropriately titled Bad Philosophy.

Torrence won the free registration to next year's event because he correctly answered the trivia question in the July edition of the SXSW e-mail newsletter. More specifically, he knew that the 2010 season for SXSW Interactive officially launches on Monday, August 3. In other words, Monday, August 3 is the date that we launch the new-look SXSW website and begin taking registrations and hotel reservations for the 2010 event (scheduled Friday, March 12 through Tuesday, March 16).

Want to have your name in this space next month? Then sign up here for your chance to win a free registration to the 2010 SXSW Interactive festival via the August e-mail newsletter, which is scheduled for release the week of Monday, August 3.

2010 Panelpicker: Proposal Deadline Extended Through Sunday Night

hugh — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 20:04:48 +0000

Many thanks to all the members of the SXSW community who have sent in 2010 programming proposals to the PanelPicker. We are excited about the quality of the ideas we've received.

And due to the huge volume of submissions in the last 24 hours, we have decided to extend the deadline to 11:59 pm CST on Sunday evening, July 12.

That's right, the PanelPicker interface will be open all weekend for all your last-minute programming proposals.

As always, we encourage you to read the FAQ before sending in your panel idea.

Extended Content - Breaking Layouts for Better CSS

andrew — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:37:46 +0000

For today's entry in our Extended Content library, we have Sean McBride telling you why you don't need to follow all the rules for good looking web pages.

For more on the Extended Content summer series, check out the first edition.

Here is today's Extended Content video, Sean McBride with "Breaking Layouts for Better CSS":

End of Day Friday is Deadline for Programming Proposals

hugh — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:36:38 +0000

Over the last few weeks, SXSW has received lots of great ideas for panels at the 2010 event. But, we know that the SXSW community is stocked with many many more amazing brainstorms about the most relevant concepts, issues, innovations, improvements, and changes with regards to new media, music and film. So, if you are part of this international community and you have a great panel idea for next spring, then we want to hear from you ASAP! Please send us your idea via the SXSW Panelpicker interface. And please hurry -- this interface closes at 11:59 pm Central Time on Friday, July 10.

Extended Content - DISO: How Millions Will Build a Global Brain (Part 2)

andrew — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:17:15 +0000

And now today, we have part 2 of David Swedlow interviewing David Gallagher about the concept of DISO (defined-interdependency system of orientation).

If you missed part 1 of this presentation, check it out here.

For more on the Extended Content summer series, check out the first edition.

Here's part 2 of "DISO: How Millions Will Build a Global Brain":

Live Graphics Nightly

andrew — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:34:18 +0000

"Vizrappers are throwing beam on the walls of the 'hood." Amoeba Man, the Mexican Lightning Crew, Sal the Shooter, and Big Ed are all down at Veli's, a funky little graphics bar underneath the freeway in West Oakland. Vizrappers and other real-time visual artists have come to make magic on the big screen with a beam of light. Some chase fame, some chase fortune, and some just want the sweet thrill of slinging pixels for a live audience. Welcome to the world of performing graphics as vividly portrayed in Lakin's novel, Live Graphics Nightly.

Fred Lakin, The Performing Graphics Company

Check out the podcast here »

SXSWi 2009 Web Awards - Baratunde Thurston

Mattenea — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 22:19:27 +0000

Emcee Baratunde Thurston is an editor for The Onion, frequently performing and providing witty political commentary for popular destinations such as Jack & Jill Politics, The Huffington Post, DailyKos and on his own site baratunde.com. He has even been named "someone I need to know" by Barack Obama.

SXSW Panel: The Future Of Social Networks

Mattenea — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 20:18:32 +0000

Social networks will be like air, in that they will permeate everything that we do online AND offline. We'll look at the underlying technologies that will make this possible, how it will evolve, and the business models that will support it.

Presented by Charlene Li, Thought Leader of Altimeter Group.