Here's a look at some of the extreme environments that Microsoft's mobile devices are being put to the test.
While Microsoft has had a very strong cloud focus in the past few years, look for a deeper on-premise enterprise theme at this year's event.
While Redmond has gone to lengths to provide the same OS experiences on the PC, tablet and phone, universal applications over all devices would help to further the "One Microsoft" focus.
While Brien Posey was initially rooting for an outsider for the Microsoft CEO position, here's why he thinks Nadella is a perfect fit at Redmond.
Cloud storage providers' data retention policies and limited Internet access overseas could provide a headache for those with data not stored on site.
If Microsoft wants its next OS to be a success, it should look to what made Windows XP so popular.
Also watch for network virtualization to continue to grow and Office 365 to undergo a makeover in the coming year.
Which trends did Brien successfully predict and which ones was he off the mark on?
Now that we've defined how the industry is changing, how does IT adapt?
Rising user tech IQ, easier-to-use gadgets and the transformation of users into consumers is changing the landscape of IT.
Brien retreads the idea of System Center taking over the role of Windows Server's GUI and explains how it can be used as the single window to a cluster of VMs.
For hybrid cloud solutions to continue to find their footing in the enterprise, security features that enforce geographic jurisdictions should be a top priority.
Brien discusses that with the trend towards tablets, IT will survive by adapting.
Brien takes a look at cracking passwords with reader-suggested rainbow tablets.
Brien breaks down on what has changed in the world of SEO in his years of absence.