>> Their practical experience is only relevant when their lack of it gets in the way of answering practical questions. <<

Have to disagree with ya here. A session can be techically correct but impractical. I think the best speakers are those that approach it from a *real world* perspective. App design sessions are a classic case. Change orders, user signoff, etc are great ideas but not always practical. I want someone up front who can offer real alternatives and that really only comes from experience.