Tips and Tricks to Get the Most Out of ISC West 2015

Tips and Tricks to Get the Most Out of ISC West 2015

Just as it's impossible to experience every part of Disney World in just three days, the same is true when it comes to the "Disney World" of security trade shows, ISC West. With droves and droves of attendees fighting for their place at booth demonstrations, events and presentations, I have developed some tried and true tips and tricks to feel like I have succeeded at ISC West:

1. The early bird gets the worm…always! If there is something special that you have been looking forward to at ISC West, be there early, as in 30-45 minutes early.

2. Participate in a scavenger hunt. Identify your most important goal for attending ISC West. Maybe it's finding a solution to the one security issue that has been plaguing you or one of your clients for months? Maybe you're hunting for the booth with the best freebies? (If so, you must tweet them to me, @GingerHill13!) Whatever it is, make this your top priority for the first day of the show and don't stop until you have fulfilled your goal. Afterwards, you'll have two days to leisurely stroll around the showroom floor, network, participate in events, etc. stress-free and more relaxed.

3. Make a new friend. The overall feeling at ISC West is one of friendly camaraderie, so extend your hand and shake the hands of those representing companies in which you would like to do business.

4. Pick up your badge the day before the showroom floor opens. I have literally seen the line for badge pick-up the day of the show snake all the way back to the coffee shop outside the convention center.

5. Two words: "comfortable shoes." Seriously. You will be walking upwards of 3 miles per day, so I suggest going for comfort over style. And, just in case, have a couple of Band-aids and a small tube of antibiotic cream on your person just in case a blister happens to pop up on your foot.

6. Stay hydrated. You will more than likely crave a lot of water based on the size of ISC West, and while there are many places to purchase $5.00 bottles of water, consider bringing a refillable water bottle to help save your pennies for the slots!

7. Be patient. Again, there will be thousands of people in attendance, all sardined together, just like driving on the freeway during rush hour traffic. Make a mental decision to be positive, patient and smile. This will help you flow through your day, rather than stopping every 3 minutes to take out your frustrations.

8. Be a foodie. Trust me, there is NOTHING worse than walking around the convention center with your stomach growling, smelling the burnt grease of the snack bar inside the showroom floor as hamburgers sizzle on the grill; yet, your schedule is jammed full. Be sure to eat a high-protein breakfast for hours of initial energy; and then, be sure to pause at least for a quick snack throughout the day. This will keep your body energized and your grumpiness from lack of nutrition at bay until the show room floor closes for the day.

About the Author

Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

Featured

  • Freedom of Choice

    In today's security landscape, we are witnessing a fundamental transformation in how organizations manage digital evidence. Law enforcement agencies, campus security teams, and large facility operators face increasingly complex challenges with expanding video data, tightening budget constraints and inflexible systems that limit innovation. Read Now

  • Accelerating a Pathway

    There is a new trend touting the transformational qualities of AI’s ability to deliver actionable data and predictive analysis that in many instances, seems to be a bit of an overpromise. The reality is that very few solutions in the cyber-physical security (CPS) space live up to this high expectation with the one exception being the new generation of Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) software – herein recategorized as PIAM+. Read Now

  • Protecting Your Zones

    It is game day. You can feel the crowd’s energy. In the parking lot. At the gate. In the stadium. On the concourse. Fans are eager to party. Food and merchandise vendors ready themselves for the rush. Read Now

  • Street Smarts

    The ongoing acceptance of AI and advanced data analytics has allowed surveillance camera technology to shift from being a tactical tool to a strategic business solution. Combining traditional surveillance technology with AI-based data-driven insights can streamline transportation systems, enhance traffic management, improve situational awareness, optimize resource allocation and streamline emergency response procedures. Read Now

  • Midtown Manhattan Shooting Kills 4, Including NYPD Officer

    Four people were killed, including a NYPD officer, in a midtown Manhattan shooting on Monday. That’s according to CNN. Read Now

New Products

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities