Gearing up for Vegas

• By Ralph C. Jensen
• Apr 08, 2015

I’ve lost count on the number of trips to Las Vegas for ISC West; I suppose it has been about 10. The tradeshow, I’m anxious to attend; being in Las Vegas is something entirely different.

My early afternoon arrival at McCarran International Airport means a two-hour delay getting a taxi to the hotel. I’m sure you understand all of that. There is always a nice press event the evening prior to the start of ISC West, which I’m excited to attend. Wednesday morning it all starts in earnest.

This year I’m going to count the number of times a product demonstration is explained as the “The World’s Only,” and “The World’s First.” I’ll report back on the number of firsts and only’s in our final electronic newsletter after the show.

We are producing two enews products during the tradeshow. Our enews guru Brent Dirks handles all the particulars with the electronic media. It is amazing to watch Brent do his job. He is the “World’s Best Electronic Editor.” If you don’t have an appointment to visit with Brent, you should try and make a booth visit.

This reminds me of several public relations firms in the industry. There are always a few stragglers who will call even as late as this Friday and as for time at a booth. Forget it, time slots are taken by the responsive and diligent PR firms in the industry. If you are calling now, you’re not doing your client any favors.

Ten years ago, I was full of spit and vinegar, and able to move through a tradeshow floor like a teenager on roller skates. Nowadays, when someone asks for a booth visit, I ask the booth number first so I can coordinate a time when I’m in that area. Work harder, but work smarter.

I’m looking forward to seeing lots of friends and acquaintances during ISC West. My goal is to find a few case studies that I can share with you during the remainder of the year, and find speakers for upcoming editorial webinars sponsored by Security Today, the website partner of Security Products magazine. Some of the topics I’m particularly interested in will be security on the campus and border security.

Travel safe to Las Vegas, and enjoy the tradeshow.