Being able to provide feedback to hardware and software vendors is challenging. Most companies will allow you to send in your suggestions or product feedback via an online form or ticket which can work out okay.
However, there is nothing better than being able to talk to someone at the company about the product and brainstorm about how it could be improved.
One VMware program that I have been a member of for some time is the VMware Design Studios.
What are the Design Studios?
The studios are a group of sessions spanning various VMware solutions. These sessions are 1 to 1 conference style calls directly with product owners and design engineers at VMware.
Each session usually lasts for around 30 to 45 minutes but can go on longer if you have the time available.
The sessions are also a great way to gain some insight into future VMware updates. A strict NDA has to be signed ahead of any call though.
What are the benefits?
As well as being able to discuss improvements directly to VMware, you will also get the chance to see future updates in action.
On the call, you will tend to run through a scenario (such as using a new version of update manager to patch hosts). Through the demonstration, you might be asked if something makes sense or if there is anything you would like to change.
In addition to this, you might be asked if there is anything else that VMware should consider as part of a demonstrated new feature or update. This is an excellent opportunity to provide constructive feedback before a feature is released.
One of the best parts of the program is when the product manager reaches out to explain that your suggestion has been implemented and if you would like to connect on another session to review it.
How to sign up
Simply visit http://vmware.design/research.html and follow the instructions to sign up.
Once successfully signed up, you will be emailed the schedules for the Design Studio sessions. From there you just select an available time slot and you’ll receive joining instructions near the time of the session.
Sign up to the VMware Design Studios
