I thought I'd spent a few minutes today thanking and giving big kudos to SW and fellow Thwack members for this awesome site. I have over 25 years of working in IT, with the last 10 years focused on network monitoring tools. That is sort of evident in the lots of hair I no longer have. 
Yet, in all those years, I never encountered an IT community like Thwack. Here's some of what I love the most about Thwack:
- Accessibility of PM's -- The PMs (product managers) are very accessible and responsive, especially in comparison to their competitors. The SW PM's do not seem afraid of input from customers; they actually invite our input and provide feedback accordingly. This helps for the various products to remain dynamic, competitive and constantly improving.
- IT Certification -- This was another smart move, especially since you cannot find SolarWinds training at places like Global Knowledge, New Horizons, etc. We live in a world where a piece of paper (i.e. certificate) can open many doors and help you move up the IT ladder. Other vendors do offer in-house training, but usually at additional cost. Most employers already have vouchers for formal IT training institutions, so they are not fond of spending $$$ on courses not offered at Global Knowledge, New Horizons, etc.
- Super friendly community-- I cannot recount the many times I've asked for help (and got it) from fellow Thwack members. This greatly relieves need to constantly reach out to SW IT folks and fosters the sense of a friendly IT neighborhood.
- It's Free!!! -- Yes, other IT community sites from other vendors (i.e. HP, CA, etc.) are free as well. Yet, as far as I know, their community sites cannot compare to the breath of information available on the Thwack site.
- It's lots of fun -- We all need a breather every now and then from our otherwise very hectic works. The Thwack site has a great balance of information and fun. If I have a hard day at work, I can come into this Thwack site and have a laugh from the postings, videos, etc.
- Prizes and Giveaways-- The prizes and gifts available have improved tremendously, especially in the past year. And, they don't cost you or me a dime. That is a very smart move, since that keeps Thwack members loyal and to visit the site frequently, and fosters membership. Let those prizes keep coming!!!
Of course, there's not such a thing as perfection, and some can cite some occasional shortcomings. I too share concerns and/or criticisms every now and then. Yet, any criticism that I may sometimes have are more than overshadowed by everything I listed above. I greatly commend SW and Thwack members for making this site a must for every serious IT professional. Many thanks and have an awesome day!!! 
PS: I welcome any additional kudos and praises that fellow Thwack members may have about this site. It's 
Thwack Day!!!
