Depends on what day you were there and if you have been to the Conference before. There's tons to do - here's the high points (IMHO):
If you are there on Monday, the Plenary Session first thing in the morning is well worth attending for the first few hours. It's pretty intense to be in a massive conference hall with several thousand GIS folks to hear Jack Dangermond and the ESRI presenters speak. Also, the Map Gallery Opening is interesting to hit in the late afternoon.
For the most bang for your buck for just one day, however, I'd suggest going on a Tuesday or Wednesday. First, look at the Technical Workshops once they are out online and pick out a few that sound interesting. Pick some alternatives for those time blocks too, as some times you can find five minutes in to a session that it is way too elementary or advanced for what you want - if so, just quietly exit and find one of your alternatives.
Second, a zip around the Exhibit area is worth it, if only for the free goodies. Plan to spend an hour or so doing that.
Third, wander into the ESRI area (also on the Exhibit floor) and hit the various areas that are of interest. They have plenty of experts in every possible facet of the software there to take questions. They have computers all set up, so can run you through the software. It's also a great opportunity to bring up problems, those "Why doesn't this work" things. If they don't have an immediate solution, they will get back to you within a few days with an answer. They also take suggestions.
Fourth, the Map Gallery is worth a look over (and will be less crowded than the Opening on Monday).
Finally, don't forget to plan in some time to meet up with people you know who are also there. It's a great way to catch up, plus you can compare notes on different things you learned.
Chris Donohue, GISP
