Since my team at Dell sponsored the inaugural ChefConf, we had the good fortune to get a handful of passes and show up at the event in force.  I was also tapped for a presentation (Chef+Crowbar gets Physical+OpenStack Cloud) and Ignite session (Crowbar history).

I live demo’ed using a single command window with knife to manage both physical and cloud infrastructure.    That’s freaking cool!  (and thanks to Matt Ray for helping to get this working)

It’s no surprise that I’m already a DevOps advocate and Opscode enthusiast, there were aspects of the conference that are worth reiterating:

• Opscode is part of the cadre of leaders redefining how we operate infrastructure.  The energy is amazing.
• The acknowledgement of the “snowflake” challenge where all Ops environments are alike, but no two are the same.
• A tight integration between Operations and lean delivery because waterfall deployments are not sustainable
• Opscode’s vision is rooted in utility.  You can be successful without design and then excel when you add it.  I find that refreshing.
• There was a fun, friendly (“hug driven development?!”) and laid back vibe.  This group laughed A LOT.
• For a first conference, Opscode did a good job with logistics and organization.
• I saw that the back rooms and hallways are buzzing with activity.  This means that people are making money with the technology.

Crowbar + Chef installs & manages OpenStack Essex (Live Demo, 45 minutes):

Ignite Talk about Dell Crowbar History (5 minutes)