VMworld is coming up fast, so I figured it would behoove me to find out what’s going down with the Hands on Labs (HoL). For those not in the loop, VMworld offers a giant room filled with workstations and VMware personnel (instructors, lab experts, etc) so that you can test drive all sorts of different scenarios. This ranges from a simple installation of vCenter 5.X to working with a complex vCloud deployment. I’ve always made a point to visit the HoL each year because there’s always at least one lab that I’m looking forward to sinking my teeth into.
Over the years, the HoL have evolved. In more recent times, you can also bring your own device (BYOD) and connect via a portal to the HoL. The benefits? You get to use your own device on your own schedule, which is great for when there is a long queue for lab workstations. It’s also nice to be able to take a lab with friends or co-workers and find out what the potential gotchas are. But I was very curious about any other new surprises in store for VMworld attendees this year.
My latest interview is with Doug Baer: VCDX #19, vExpert, and architect who works on the Hands on Labs with the team at VMware. During our discussion, he clears the air over the differences between the HoL and Project NEE, gives us some sneak peaks into what will be new and exciting in the lab catalog, and also outlines some new Lab Hotspots and instructor led Lab Workshops. Very cool stuff!
