Multi-Touch for Tradeshows and Events

This past Exhibitor 2011, 23^rd Annual World Conference and Exhibition for Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing that took place in Las Vegas, NV was excellent and definitely lived up to its’ reputation. The Exhibitor Show is known for having the newest and coolest products and services for the Trade Show and Corporate Event Industry.  There is the annual distinguished Buyer’s Choice Award that most innovative and cutting edge companies (Exhibitors) want to achieve and WIN.

However, this Exhibitor 2011 Show was a little different. Yes, the Show had the typical amount of Exciting Exhibit Designers, Awesome Event Companies, Reliable Freight Companies, No-Hassle Registration Companies but this year the Show had many multi media and interactive technology companies.

BUYERS CHOICE AWARDS
The following five products were chosen by Exhibit Managers
out of the dozens of New Product Showcase entries. All are multi-media and interactive technologies to enhance the exhibitor or attendees experience.

PhotonInteractive Display
PeopleVisionFX

Want a captive audience? The PhotonInteractive Display from PeopleVisionFX brings futuristic interactivity to a whole new level thanks to a transparent, holographic-like effect that allows video images of varying levels of translucency to be projected onto a transparent screen. Unlike ordinary holograms, however, the interactive display is able to move thanks to a touch-sensitive surface. The edges of the transparent screen can even be hidden in framing elements, creating high-definition images that seem to hover in mid-air. Images can be solid or “ghostly,” opening the door for theatrical applications. Each custom, modular display is designed to meet your specifications and is upwardly compatible, allowing you to upgrade your exhibit at any time to incorporate new messages or the latest technological innovations.
Contact: PeopleVisionFX, Roselle, NJ, 973-509-2056, www.peoplevisionfx.com

iPad Lead System
NewLeads

If your booth staff is tired of overcrowding near your communal, stationary attendee-tracking device, the cloud-based NewLeads Inc. iPad Lead System (MobilePartner for iPad) may be the answer. The system eliminates the need for communal lead-qualification systems, providing any sales rep or booth-staff member with an iPad, wireless tablet, or mobile phone with the freedom to conduct individual lead qualification anywhere in your booth. The system can also display literature, play videos, and provide booth staff with an endless supply of other support material, enabling them to engage in in-depth conversations that lead to better qualified leads.
Contact: NewLeads Inc., Ventura, CA, 805-658-3330, www.newleads.com

Kaon PresenterPro
Kaon Interactive

Kaon PresenterPro from Kaon Interactive Inc. brings 3-D interactivity to the sales toolbox and onto the trade show floor. Using an iPad, booth personnel can use the software to simplify sophisticated product stories by launching realistic 3-D product models that look and behave like actual products. Customers and prospects can even test drive solutions for themselves using the iPad’s touchscreen interface to view products from every angle and explore options and features (such as opening drawers). In addition to using an iPad to display content anywhere in a booth, booth staff also have the option of presenting content to audiences of all sizes using a standard projector or large external monitor, which can be wirelessly controlled with an iPad. The Kaon PresenterPro package includes one Apple iPad preloaded with Kaon PresenterPro software and a Kaon PresenterPro appliance that measures 6-by-13.5-by-17 inches. The appliance can be placed under a podium, in an AV closet, or under a projector, hiding it from view.
Contact: Kaon Interactive Inc., Maynard, MA, 978-823-0111, www.kaon.com

Concierge Elite
Freeman

Concierge Elite by Freeman alleviates the headaches associated with booth setup and tear down by allowing exhibitors to use their mobile device or smart phone to handle logistics from the comfort of their booth or hotel. The mobile application features the ability to check the status of freight, receive e-mail or text alerts for freight notifications, submit service requests, review booth-related orders, and more. Users control the frequency and type of notifications they receive (text or e-mail), and can request that those notifications be sent to a list of additional contacts as well.
Contact: Freeman, Dallas, 214-445-1000

EZ Engage Interactive Wall
Moss

Let the EZ Engage Interactive Wall from Moss Inc. grab attendees’ attention for you. The EZ Engage is a 39-by-93-inch fabric wall that integrates a 32-inch monitor, eight LED-lit motion sensors, and an integrated computer hard drive. The monitor, sensors, and computer are contained within a 3.15-inch wall. With a mere wave of the hand, show attendees can interact with EZ’s touch-less graphics interface to play product demos, review product specs, and peruse marketing literature. Even a minimally fluent computer user should find the EZ system setup entirely intuitive – no advanced degree from MIT required.
Contact: Moss Inc., Elk Grove Village, IL, 800-341-1557, www.mossinc.com

Multi-Touch and Multi Media presentations seem to be at the forefront of all the hype and energy. Thanks in part to Apple and the iPhone and its’ latest creation the iPad.

We need more of these multi-touch interactive companies in the Trade Show and Corporate Event Marketing Industry. Our Exhibitors and Attendees are asking us about this technology and desire these new marketing tools at their shows and events.

One company in the San Francisco Bay Area that is on the cutting edge of this technology is 22 Miles based in San Jose, CA. They are making trade show business presentations appealing to the Trade Show Manager and Marketing Manager by offering some key solutions to the ongoing trade show marketing dilemma of attracting people to your booth or event area and getting your message out.

22 Miles has the modern technology to keep you ahead of the competition with their business presentation technology and engage the attendees and potential customers with excitement and information.

Plus the intuitive touchscreen interfaces, on both the PC and iPad versions of software, which makes it easy for first timers to use and experience the benefits of the multi-touch systems.

For more information on 22 Miles

65 N 2ND ST
SAN JOSE, CA 95113

Direct: (408) 837-0589

Here is some additional information on our Convey Product Line.

Convey Information Placard: Bring your message to the forefront

Convey your message in style with Convey® Information Placards. They’re a perfect complement to trade show exhibits and can be used as stand-alone kiosks in retail applications, in office lobbies or at special events.

Sturdy, Lightweight Design

Convey assembles with ease and, even though it has a small footprint, is very sturdy. A single unit weighs just 20 lbs. (9 kg).

Branded Profile Graphics

Convey represents your brand with custom graphics that can be profiled in a variety of shapes. Panel easily attach with magnet.

http://www.skyline.com/portable-displays/display-systems/tables-and-kiosks/convey
For ideas or comments about Multi-Touch Systems or Interactive Presentations at Events or Trade shows please contact me at amontano@skybay.com

Anthony Montano
Exhibit Consultant
amontano@skybay.com

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Spectacular Outdoor Event: California Peace Officers Memorial Run

This past Saturday May 7th was the 3rd Annual California Peace Officers’ Association Memorial Run (5k, 10k and Kid’s challenge) and Family BBQ. It was a very special event honoring those who’ve lost their lives in the line of duty, while making our lives safer. The Third Annual California Peace Officers’ Association’s Memorial Run was held on Saturday, May 7th at Shadow Cliffs Regional Park, Pleasanton. This was an extraordinary way to salute those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, while at the same time supporting their families and co-workers who are left behind to cope with the tragic loss.

All proceeds from this family oriented event went directly to the Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) (California Chapter), a non-profit organization whose sole mission is to assist with the rebuilding of lives of surviving family members and affected co-workers of law enforcement officers killed. Each year, between140 and 160 officers are killed, while carrying out their sworn duties. Their families and co-workers are left to cope with these tragic losses. C.O.P.S has more than 15,000 members and provides resources and assistance to help these families rebuild shattered lives. There is no membership fee to join C.O.P.S., for the price paid is already too high.

The Memorial Run’s 10K & 5K Walk & Run courses are made up of small rolling-hill trails that run throughout the scenic Shadow Cliffs Regional Park. The Kid’s 1-Mile Fun Run is laid out through a portion of the park’s lawn area.
The Family oriented event included a barbeque from Outback Steakhouse. One of Outback Favorites; Baby Back Ribs
These fall-off-the-bone ribs are exactly the way ribs should be. Succulent and saucy, each rack is smoked, grilled to perfection and brushed in a tangy BBQ sauce. The OutBack Team included a Wheat roll, a outstanding potato salad and a cup of fruit.

For future CPOA Memorial Run information and/or an application, contact On Your Mark Events at (209) 795-7832, or visit www.onyourmarkevents.com. To register online go to www.Active.com <http://www.active.com/>  or California Peace Officer’s Association website at: https://m360.cpoa.org/ViewEvent.aspx?id=26615&instance=0

For ideas or comments about the CPOA Memorial Run or other Events please contact me at amontano@skybay.com

Anthony Montano
Exhibit Consultant
amontano@skybay.com

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Premier Home and Community Builders – PCBC

The PCBC 2010 Show in San Francisco, CA at the Moscone Convention Center this past June 9th – 11th. PCBC www.pcbc.com  in it’s more than five decades of existence is a great foundation for companies in the building industry to showcase their new and unique products and services. PCBC is sponsored by the California Building Industry Association www.cbia.org .

After more than five decades the PCBC Show is still a successful tradeshow to exhibit at and to attend. The PCBC tradeshow used the entire North Hall and more than 300 exhibiting companies. The amount of square footage for the Show was more than 60,000. There were more than 9,500 Industry Professionals that attended the three day event to learn and network among the top Building Professionals and see the latest trends in market place.

Here are some great Statistics on the PCBC Attendee:
PCBC attracts Senior Level Executives (CEO/ Principle/ General Manager) – 52%
Represent Major Builders – Avg. Company Volume – over 50 million – 22%
Purchase Building Products/ Services for their Companies – 80%
Rate PCBC as very valuable or valuable for evaluating and comparing products – 69%

Save some Money:
If you exhibited last year and plan on Exhibiting at PCBC 2011 then you can get a 10% discount on booth space and a 5% discount on material handling from Champion – the Show Services Supplier.

Large custom modular exhibits being used more at the tradeshows. The main reason for this is costs. You can save 15%-30% on your total Show expenses. Custom Modular primarily means that standardized components are used to use custom configurations and designs. The use of fabric has become very popular for the installation and dismantle of booths as well as to lower freight bills.

Here are just a few of the companies that have some interesting products or services on the Exhibit Floor:
Architectural Facades Unlimited, Inc.
Architectural Facades Unlimited, more than 25 years has been creating the most outstanding ornamental cast-stone products for residential homes, restoration projects and commercial properties throughout the nation. The beauty of Cast-stone is that you can virtually make any shape you can imagine and have the look and feel of natural stone. Architectural Facades’ creates finishes that range from English Granite, Sandstone, Rustic and French Limestone to Italian Travertine which is applicable to any shape whether it is Columns, Mantels, Fountains, Balustrades, Spheres, Veneers, or Moldings.
www.architecturalfacades.com

Delta Products Corp.
Delta Group is the world’s largest provider of switching power supplies and DC brushless fans, as well as a major source for power management solutions, components, visual displays, industrial automation, networking products, and renewable energy solutions. Delta Group has sales offices worldwide and manufacturing plants in Taiwan, China, Thailand, Mexico, India and Europe. As a global leader in power electronics, Delta’s mission is, “To provide innovative, clean and efficient energy solutions for a better tomorrow.” Delta is committed to environmental protection and has implemented green, lead-free production and waste management programs for many years
www.deltaww.com

Kelly-Moore Paint Co., Inc.
Kelly-Moore is the largest employee-owned paint companies in the United States. With approximately 163 retail stores, major manufacturing facilities in the West, and approximately 1,500 employees, we enjoy a reputation as leaders and innovators in the paint industry. The success of our company is based on our commitment to quality products and personalized service.
www.kellymoore.com

Nana Wall Systems, Inc.
Perceiving an unmet need for flexible solutions to large architectural openings, the founders of Nana Wall Systems delivered their first wood-framed, opening glass wall in 1986. Three years later, Nana Wall Systems, Inc. was incorporated, with the mission of finding, creating, and delivering an ever-broadening array of flexible design solutions. In 1996, Nana Wall Systems entered into partnership with Solarlux of Germany, the world leader in operable glass wall technology. Today, with manufacturer’s representatives throughout the continent, Nana Wall Systems is the dominant provider of opening glass walls in North America.
www.nanawall.com

Simpson Strong-Tie Co., Inc.
For more than 50 years, Simpson Strong-Tie has focused on creating structural products that help people build safer and stronger homes and buildings. A leader in structural systems research and technology, Simpson is one of the largest suppliers of structural building products in the world.
Simpson’s commitment to product development, engineering, testing and training is evident in the consistent quality and delivery of its products and services. Simpson Strong-Tie® product lines include structural connectors, Strong-Wall® prefabricated shearwalls, Anchor Tiedown Systems for multi-story buildings, Quik Drive® auto-feed screw driving systems and Anchor Systems® anchors and fasteners for concrete and masonry.
www.strongtie.com

The PCBC 2011 is going to be held June 22- 24 2011 Please check out the Exhibit Information page http://www.pcbc.com/theshow/Exhibiting/BecomeAnExhibitor/becomeanexhibitor.html

For ideas or comments for PCBC 2011 please contact me at amontano@skybay.com

Anthony Montano
Exhibit Consultant
amontano@skybay.com

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American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO)

The 52^nd Annual Meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) www.astro.org in San Diego, CA at the San Diego Convention Center this past October 31^st – November 4^th. What a great venue and city and home to the west coast’s Marine Corps Recruiting Depot (MCRD) and Naval Base Coronado.

This year’s ASTRO was by far one of the largest Tradeshows in its’ 52 years. The tradeshow used Halls B2 – G and more than 283 companies exhibited. The amount of square footage that was used for the show was more than 35,000 sq. ft. Also there was more than 12,000 Attendees to explore and conduct business on the show floor.

The ASTRO Show has been around for 52 years and so have some of the companies that Exhibit but there also has been some changes with the turbulent world economic climate. Some new and old companies have emerged as players in the Radiation Oncology market.  I was amazed at the large custom modular exhibits being used at the Show. According to my observation there were about 60% had some type of custom modular component to their exhibit property.

Custom Modular primarily means that standardized components are used to use custom configurations and designs. Majority of the booth structure incorporates fabric because of the versatility and cost of use. The fabric can be used in many different ways such as main graphics, layers to provide a 3-D look, double-sided print coverage, sheer drapery, back lighting possibilities and much more. It also can save you money on shipping, drayage and installation and dismantle.

Here are just a few of the companies that seemed to stand out on the Exhibit Floor:

Accurray Inc.

The CyberKnife® Robotic Radiosurgery System treats tumors anywhere in the body non-invasively; automatically tracking, detecting, and correcting for tumor and patient movement in real-time throughout the treatment.

www.accuray.com

ACP Composites

ACP Composites specializes in the design and fabrication of high quality radiolucent carbon fiber diagnostic imaging components and accessories. These include carbon tabletops, covers, arm boards and fixation components. ACP provides concept development, rapid prototyping and a wide variety of composite materials. With over 20 years of composite manufacturing experience, ACP is uniquely qualified to help you succeed.

www.acpsales.com

Broncus Technologies

LungPoint® Software provides tools to easily plan and review the bronchoscopic placement of lung fiducial markers. Accurately, quickly and cost-effectively navigate to locations in the lungs with Virtual Bronchoscopic Navigation.

www.broncus.com

Carl Zeiss

Radiation therapy using the INTRABEAM System from Carl Zeiss provides a radiotherapy treatment options derived from a philosophy that utilizes a clinical- evidence based approach to patient care. By combining an individualized treatment with internal, low-energy, x-ray radiation, the INTRABEAM Radio- therapy System enables a less invasive cancer treatment option.

www.meditec.zeiss.com/radiotherapy

IntraOp Medical

IntraOp Medical provides innovative technology solutions for the treatment and eradication of cancer. Founded in 1993, IntraOp is committed to providing the tools doctors need to administer radiation safely and effectively to all patients with cancer.

Xoft, Inc.

The Axxent eBx^TM System may be used for accelerated partial breast irradiation after lumpectomyandfor irradiation in endometrial, skin and intraoperative cancer treatments.

www.xoftinc.com

The 53^rd Annual Meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is going to be held Oct. 2 – 6, 2011 Please check out the Calendar of Events http://www.astro.org/Meetings/CalendarOfEvents/index.aspx

For ideas or comments on ASTRO 2011 please contact me at amontano@skybay.com

Anthony Montano
Exhibit Consultant
amontano@skybay.com

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Exhibit Construction Guidelines – Get to know them

There are some standard display rules and regulations for exhibiting at Tradeshows and Expositions in the U.S.A. Even the Veteran Trade show Manager or Coordinator needs to refer to the Rules and Regulations periodically to make sure they are in compliance and Show Management doesn’t have to tell them to modify their booth structure on-site.

These Rules and Regulations can act as a guide for you and your Exhibit Team. If you know the industry standard for the rules than you may be able to push them a little but it all depends on Show Management. It is always good to have good Exhibit and Trade show etiquette meaning do not do anything to that may hinder or prevent exposure and attendee traffic to your Exhibit floor neighbors.

Here are three of the most common booth display rules:

Standard/ Linear Booth:

Standard/ Linear Booth are also called in-line booths. They are generally arranged in a straight line and they have exhibiting neighbors on the left and right of them, having only the front exposed for attendees. Linear Booths are most commonly 10ft. (3.05m) wide and 10ft. (3.05m) deep. Typically referred to as a 10ft. x 10ft. The height of the back wall is limited to 8ft. (2.44m). This back wall height is key to consider when designing your booth property. Corner Booths are always good booth locations. You can usually take down one of the 3ft. side rails on the side exposed to the aisle.

Perimeter Booth:

A perimeter booth is a linear booth that backs to a perimeter wall of the exposition facility and not to another exhibiting neighbor. All guidelines for a linear booth apply to perimeter booths except that the typical maximum back wall height is 12ft. (3.66m).

Island Booth:

An island booth is any size booth exposed to aisles on all four sides. Island booths are typically 20ft. x 20ft. (6.10m by 6.10m) or larger, although it may be configured differently. The use of the entire space may be used. The maximum allowable height typically ranges from 16ft. to 20ft., including signage.

If you have any questions or concerns for you booth or booth space at any show please contact me and I will tell you what the Rules and Regulations are for that Show.

Anthony Montano
Exhibit Consultant
amontano@skybay.com

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Race for Results!

Events and Sports Marketing are an excellent way to market and promote your products and services and a fast way to get new customers or fans of your products and services. Have you ever thought about Sponsoring and/or Exhibiting at an Event or Sporting Event? Why not? Is it because it is not your traditional way of marketing and because it may seem so informal, but these two reasons are why you should consider Event and Sports Marketing as an effective form of lead generation and customer acquisition.

On July 17^th I did the 23^rd Annual Tri for Fun Series at Shadow Cliffs in Pleasanton, CA. If you are interested in other Triathlons, 5K or 10K races you can check out their event calendar at http://onyourmarkevents.com/events-new.asp

Call me crazy or just the love and passion for the Event and Tradeshow industry. As I was preparing for the race and during the race and after the race I kept thinking about the enormous marketing opportunities that are present at one of these Events. Here are a few things you should consider when Sponsoring and/or Exhibiting at Sporting Events.

Know the Demographic or the Race Participants:

Do not think every 5K or Half-Marathon is the same. The City that the race is in can tell you a lot about the demographics and race participants. If the race is a National or internationally accredited course this is a great indicator that people will be traveling to the Sporting Event from out of State or Country. For an excellent International Sporting Event check out http://www.bsim.org/site3.aspx

Who does the Sporting Event benefit?:

There are so many non-profit organizations out there and many have some type of Race or benefit they are affiliated with. If giving back and social responsibility is important to you and your organization then finding a Sporting Event that fits your interests and your company’s won’t be that difficult. Here are two events that benefit education http://www.happyfishrun4education.com/ and the fight against hungry http://www.stocktonfoodbank.org/

What type of Result do you want?:

Do you want to have Race Participants sign-up to win a new product or service? Do you want them to try out your product or service? Is it more informational and educational? As a Marketing, Sales or Owner of a company you need to consider these things to come up with the right result for your company.

Next time you are developing your marketing and sales plan consider the power of Sporting Events as a viable and productive way to get your message out. Remember we are all in a race to get results and we want them fast but to be effective!

Race on!

For questions on event and sports marketing you can contact me directly at Skyline Exhibits .

Anthony Montano
Exhibit Consultant
amontano@skybay.com

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