Improving Tradeshows

So, I’ve been here at a large trade show in CA for the week, and I’ve noted somethings that would really improve the show and make it a better experience, for me–and others I’m sure…

1. Chairs. There is a dramatic shortage of places to sit. Part of this is by design, of course floor space is limited. But it was consistently a problem to get a seat to grab a bit to eat, or to look at the floor map, or to rummage through my bag for something. There was a huge area of seating… in the basement of the convention center. Away from everything else, including the food vendors. Really poor planning, if you ask me.

2. Wi-Fi. I am posting this from my Mac, via wi-fi. And I’m paying for it. Yes, in 2007, a major _technology_ conference doesn’t have free wi-fi. This is just idiotic. I went to a vendor party the other night, where a lot of money was spent on games, food and other crap. The vendor could have easily spent a little less on throw-aways, and instead, sponsored free wi-fi for the show. It’s not like the vast majority of people here don’t have laptops and the need to check e-mail. Yes, the show provides a “Cyber Cafe” for free–but in the days of POP/IMAP and laptops, this is pretty antiquated. Give us wi-fi already. Sheesh.