I just returned from the IAITAM Annual Conference in Henderson, Nevada (right outside of Vegas). While most conferences are scaling back and losing exhibitors and attendees, IAITAM (International Association of IT Asset Managers) seems to be one of the few associations that have grown its annual conference and its membership. The question is why and how?
I think there are several important reasons to why/how IAITAM grew.
1- ITAM as a trend is on the rise. No matter where you go, you hear about IT asset management and cost control. This industry is part of the popular IT trends as seen in the ITAM Industry in the Ascendancy article by @ITAMReview.
2- IAITAM is an extremely niche topic/industry that hits across all IT markets. Everyone could benefit from ITAM.
3- Companies and people are seeking ways to either re-educate or to continue to educate themselves in their industry. The IAITAM conference is a perfect place to garner information.
4- Unlike other organizations, IAITAM brings everything in-house – from production of attendee bags to signs to its membership magazine. The savings allows for the organization to give back to its members by giving a first class conference with world class food and entertainment.
So, while I think majority of trade shows and conferences are not worth spending money on. The annual IAITAM conference is one of the few that fit the criteria of must attend if you are in the ITAM industry for the following reasons:
1- Great networking opportunities.
2- Attendees are extremely targeted audience and, this year, they are ready to spend money.
3- An extremely targeted audience.
4- The luncheons and dinners are served in the exhibit hall and the association does everything possible to drive attendees to the booths. There is also an extremely limited exhibition time, which is good for a show that’s only about 400 people.
5- Qualified leads. No need to shift through information.
With that said, look for shows with the characteristics above and you can’t go wrong.
