How to Prepare for ISC West

  • By Lindsay Page
  • Mar 27, 2017

No matter how many times you've been to ISC West, the sheer size of the show will never cease to amaze. It is the largest security industry tradeshow in the U.S., after all. This year, there will be more than 1,000 exhibitors and brands there – all eager to show their latest products and technologies. When attending ISC, it's always best to plan ahead.

Show Dates and Times

It's too easy to get overwhelmed at ISC West. Make sure you know which days you'll be there, and when the exhibit hall opens. Here's a quick guide:

For SIA Education @ ISC, Tuesday hours are from 8am until 5pm. On Wednesday and Thursday, hours are a bit different – 7:30am to 3pm.

For the Exhibit Hall, Wednesday and Thursday hours are from 10am-5pm. Friday the hall closes at 3pm.

Check out the Floor Plan

With so many exhibitors and booths in one place, it's almost impossible to find your way around. Luckily, ISC West provides a floor plan that you can download from their site. I like to print out a copy or two and take with me – you never know when they'll come in handy.

Bring a Bag

I like to take a backpack with me to the show. It's easier to keep track of and it doesn't hurt my shoulder like a purse or messenger back would after an entire day spent walking and rushing from one booth to another. It's also nice to keep a water handy. Hydration is important!

Show Up a Little Early

No matter if you have a booth appointment or attending a session when you first make it to the show, arrive a few minutes early. Grab a snack, a coffee and gear up for what's ahead. Scope out the areas you need to be for the few hours or so, and then you can settle in and get things done. But most of all: have fun! It's Vegas!

About the Author

Lindsay Page is the editor for Campus Security & Life Safety magazine, and the senior editor for Security Today.

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