Microsoft TechEd NA 2014 Registration is Live!

The day we’ve all been waiting for (well, the day I’ve been waiting for at least) is finally here. Registration is open for TechEd North America 2014 in Houston. I just finished registering, and if you’re planning to be in Houston next May as well, head on over to the TechEd NA site and do the same.

One of the advantage of registering between now and December 31 is reduced Early Bird pricing.  You can save $300 by registering early, and if you qualify for an academic discount, you can save even more.  I work for a university, which made me eligible for a discounted price of only $1,195. That’s an additional savings of $700! You have to act fast, however, as the staff and faculty discount is limited to the first 300 people, and I’ve already used one of those slots.  If you’re a student, you only pay $995, but that group is even smaller, only 100 available registrations.

No matter in which group you might fall, you’re going to save money by registering now. if you still need to receive approval to attend next year, let you r manager know that acting now saves them money.  If you still need help convincing your boss that sending you to TechEd is a good investment for both you and your organization, Microsoft has put together some info to help you make the case. Check out the Convince Your Boss section of the TechEd website for information you can use to make your case.

One quick mention about the hotels. I have a feeling the Hilton Americas and Embassy Suites will be the top choices for a number of people. The Hilton Americas is next to the convention center and is connected by skywalks, so you never need to go outside. The Embassy Suites is kitty corner from the Hilton, so it’s about the same walk, but you get the added benefit of a made-to-order breakfast every morning and a two-room suite. I’m a sucker for a good breakfast and more room to call home for the week, so I’m booked at the Embassy Suites for now.

You can see the list of hotels, a map, and all the pricing info on the TechEd Hotels page. Some of the hotels are several miles from the convention center so unless you want to sit on a bus going back and forth, booking early makes sense. The good rooms are going to go fast.

That should be enough information and motivation for you to go out and get registered for TechEd. I’ll be in Houston. Will I see you there?