In my many years of visiting technology companies, there are always a few that I get excited about. The cool and groovy companies that have their hands in all aspects of technology; entertainment (all the versions of this), consumer, and are always pushing their message in an exciting way. I got to actually visit three are on the top of my cool list - Apple, Adobe and AutoDesk (Discreet logic). They are all in Northern California and yes they are all the coolest.

I had one hour with a powerful Apple audience to pitch HD EXPO and a partnership that we have created and will grow together. It was a bit overwhelming not because of the pitch or the audience but because I was at Apple – not just Apple but the Mothership – no kidding.

We entered the lobby, which is exactly how one would expect, white, clean lots of windows looking our into park areas and yes the largest IPhone banner you have ever seen. Everyone is friendly and casual. I also heard that Steve Jobs just announced to his thousands of staff that they will each get an IPhone FREE. Great way to thank the troops.

We were escorted into a conference room with all the newest toys (projectors, decks etc) but my personal favorite were the wall to wall of dry erase board with a choice of any color pen. I will leave the details of the meeting out with respect to all in attendance and in case any of the other competing tradeshows might read this. The meeting went GREAT!

All I could think about in reflection of my Apple experience was that there was a vibe and pulse running through the building /campus that was filled with innovation and bold excitement because their vision of world domination. It was truly a fun experience.

Look for details about my visit to AutoDesk and Adobe in my next post...