Regionals vs MegaShows

[gonzo]

With the pending Internext show coming up lots of people have offered up views and quick snipes one way or the other but I want to consolidate the viewpoints and start a dialog.

Which do you prefer...the regional shows like Sharpie does or a Internext serve your needs more?

It seems like the prices continue to rise and rise at Interenxt while Sharpies show continue to offer even more bang for the buck!

We've been teasing the start of this and now its time to share your views.
Sharpie I invite you to join this thread in full force. I know nobody from AVN will join in but they are invited to join as well.

I know you guys are rading becasue you come over here and copy paste posts on here like Luke Ford and call them your news article. For once do you have the guts to step into the community? You know the same people that youve been taking money and lots of it from for the past several years?

[Mike AI]

My number one issue is that Internext is an AVN event, AVN services and owes their allegences to the "old line porn companies", the big video production, distribution companies who want to put US ( the web people) out of business.

The old line video/magazine, see the Internet as their peice of the pie, and are going to continue there efforts to seize it.

Since AVN was made by these companies, they get whatever they want - and the web companies tend to get the shaft. I think this can be seen with what has been going on with some of the patent settlers as well.

AVN does not have the best interest of this community, in my opinion they just want to be aggrigate to help the old line comapnies seize more of our pie.

[Nickatilynx]

Mike,

I am 100% with you on this matter.

[gonzo]

Originally posted by Mike AI@Nov 6 2003, 04:43 PM
Since AVN was made by these companies, they get whatever they want - and the web companies tend to get the shaft. I think this can be seen with what has been going on with some of the patent settlers as well.

AVN does not have the best interest of this community, in my opinion they just want to be aggrigate to help the old line comapnies seize more of our pie.
Mike ---

Would you care to eleborate on this patent issue as it applies to AVN?

[mojobill]

I've always liked faye's shows.. smaller, better communication minded, and easier to talk to people....

I've always seen Internext much as Mike just laid out... pushes/encourages the 'big boys' .....

...course.. I'm probably going to my FIRST internext this Jan, so... maybe I'll see things differently after that... somehow I doubt it! LOL

[Mike AI]

Originally posted by gonzo+Nov 6 2003, 04:45 PM--></span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (gonzo @ Nov 6 2003, 04:45 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteBegin--Mike AI@Nov 6 2003, 04:43 PM
Since AVN was made by these companies, they get whatever they want - and the web companies tend to get the shaft. I think this can be seen with what has been going on with some of the patent settlers as well.

AVN does not have the best interest of this community, in my opinion they just want to be aggrigate to help the old line comapnies seize more of our pie.
Mike ---

Would you care to eleborate on this patent issue as it applies to AVN?[/b][/quote]


Not at this time. It is only speculation.... but where there is smoke, there is fire.

[Sharpie]

I neither consider Cybernet Expo a regional show OR a mega show. It does not fit in either category.

We DO draw people from all over the country and International. You see people at our shows that do not attend Regional shows (unless it happens to be in their area) We do not draw all the people that Internext does. We draw the more serious webmasters and not as many of the hangers - on, that just come for the parties.

Most of our conferences are filled with a lot of veteran webmasters, more than just the big sponsors, with a company line. We cater to the mid size veterans, although we do try to provide something for newbies, and the amateur and gay markets. Our focus is about education & easy networking. Although a few parties are always welcome.

So... we are a little different than your question. We are the midsize show. Pheonix has also grown to fit into that category.




Last edited by Sharpie at Nov 6 2003, 05:16 PM

[gonzo]

Originally posted by Sharpie@Nov 6 2003, 05:15 PM
I neither consider Cybernet Expo a regional show OR a mega show. It does not fit in either category.

We DO draw people from all over the country and International. You see people at our shows that do not attend Regional shows (unless it happens to be in their area) We do not draw all the people that Internext does. We draw the more serious webmasters and not as many of the hangers - on, that just come for the parties.

Most of our conferences are filled with a lot of veteran webmasters, more than just the big sponsors, with a company line. We cater to the mid size veterans, although we do try to provide something for newbies, and the amateur and gay markets. Our focus is about education & easy networking. Although a few parties are always welcome.

So... we are a little different than your question. We are the midsize show. Pheonix has also grown to fit into that category.
Im actually making plans for the Pheonix show and doing a little business for the "family". Can you tell me a little bit more about it? When it is? A more detailed overview of what the iteneraty is?

[Sharpie]

I THINK that Pheonix is April 1 - 4th.

It started as a more regional show a few years ago. When CCBill got involved, it grew considerably. CCBill decided to take the money they were spending with parties and large booths & apply it to thier own show. They have some seminars, but more than anything else it is social & networking. It allows for a lot of free time. I would recommend it. The only downside I have found is finding the people you are looking for sometimes.

[kath]

Originally posted by gonzo@Nov 6 2003, 02:42 PM
Im actually making plans for the Pheonix show and doing a little business for the "family". Can you tell me a little bit more about it? When it is? A more detailed overview of what the iteneraty is?
Gonzo -

I attended the Phoenix Forum last year and can tell you that it is quickly becoming a "must attend" event. The seminars/workshops were well-organized and well-attended... the venue for this conference was very classy - nice rooms, affordable rates, close to airports - convenient for folks driving in (right off the freeway). Nestled in a resort area of Scottsdale, it was a nice change of pace from the insanity of Florida and the distractions of Vegas.

In addition to the workshops - sponsors of the event were given scheduled time to talk about/promote their programs. Not a "SPAM FEST" like some of the old regional shows of the past, it was marked as "Sponsors Keynotes" and was treated as such. Even these seminars were well-attended.

A low-key welcome party with open bar & appetizers kicked off the weekend - a great way for everyone to meet and get things started. Other networking opportunities/parties were an off-site sports bar party, the Lightspeed paintball war and the weekend finished with a pool-side bash.

I'm definitely heading to Phoenix again this year - it really was a "breath of fresh air" and an excellent mid-sized gathering (as Fay pointed out). I'm also anxious to attend Fay's San Diego Cybernet - from what I'm seeing it promises to be the BEST one yet! :okthumb:

[Hell Puppy]

It's interesting. Sponsors bitch about the costs of everything at the mega-shows and the high number of freeloaders there just to party. But at the same time, I've also heard them bitch about a smaller show like Faye's because the number of attendee's is lower even though the quality of the attendee is typically higher.

I guess everyone wants their cake and eat it to...human nature once again strikes.


I think perhaps the show opportunity that is largely being missed is the specialized show. I'm talking about the show that can bring together really like minded individuals with the same goals, same mindsets and same business objectives.

These happen every day on an informal basis with very small groups of webmasters having dinner together and what not. It would be interesting if there was a way to accomplish that same thing except on a just slightly larger level

[Carrie]

I've been to two shows - Sharpie's Montreal Cybernet Expo and Internext Summer (Florida).
In my experience Sharpie's show blew Internext away on so many different levels.

I heard that the AWE shows were great from the webmasters that attended and was looking forward to going to one of those one day, but then they closed up shop. :(

Internext is the big dog and people complain like crazy. The complaints are being ignored and it looks like they've been ignored for years. But yet folks keep going - and they will keep going and it will continue to be the biggest show with the most people attending even if AVN were to double the price. Sad but true. For a webmaster it's the easiest place to find all of your sponsors in one spot and generally a good majority of all the folks you've ever wanted to meet or do business with will be there as well.

From a sponsor's point of view, Internext overcharges, nickles and dimes you to death with its extra fees for things that should be included, and then (at least with Florida) gives you as little as possible and makes it difficult to talk to prospects. Hell, one person stands in front of your booth and one person stands in front of the booth across from you, and you've got a traffic jam. People come to the end of the aisle and see the clog, and just keep walking.
It was supposed to put everyone on an even playing field - all sponsors got the same sized booth. Lo and behold, you get to the show and some sponsors have 3, 4, even 5 booth spaces - so much for taking them at their word.
If you want to do anything for the webmasters at the show you *must* rent a booth - even if you have no intention of keeping it staffed and it sits there with a "gone fishing" sign the entire time.

Bah. I could go on forever. Bring on the shows where the focus is on networking and building your business, rather than being about who can have the flashiest booth.

[Sharpie]

I think my concept is a good one, and I have always tried to be fair. (I was an exhibitor for many years, and totally understand the expense in exhibiting)

My biggest problem is cooperation, and that we have not had the support of 'some of the big dogs, since Montreal 1999, when the awards did not come out in favor of one particuliar individual. (who at one time had a huge influence) This was evidenced next at New Orleans when the show room sold out immediately and then 1/3 of them backed out & the space had to be resold again.

Would I make the same decision again? Yes, because it was the honest thing to do. It cost me dearly, but I sleep at night. When I am told that I will never do another Webmaster show again - well, it just stregthened my resolve. I have also been critisized for not holding them in more expensive hotels - but, I am dedicated to trying to keep the shows affordable. It was certainly going against the grain - but I think maybe it is now beginning to make more sense, with the present economy.

I don't think you have to have a lot of pomp and circumstance, to do business. I feel it is more important, to have easy access to networking areas. This expense has led to people spending way too much money for booths, and has added to the new trend of not having one. That is why I have tried to make them more affordable and put them in the networking areas. I have also shortened the hours, so that anyone who exhibits, is not only in the thick of things - but doesn't feel trapped. They also should be able to enjoy the show and not have to get up so early. I think booths are important for one reason: people know where to find you, and you have an organized area from which to work, and make a presentation.

I think my business plan is going to work for a lot more people this year.

[photogregg]

I hit all the Internext shows and will do Regional if it's close...not so much to get more biz...all my accounts have come folks I've never met via email and icq.

It's nice to go and meet new customers and talk with current customers face to face...makes it all worth the trip and expense

[Evil Chris]

Too bad Adultdex got canned. In the end it wasn't much of a webmaster show, but I still enjoyed attending and meeting up with the webmasters who went. Plus, it was a nice November break for me to go to Vegas for a week.

I enjoy going to most of the shows, big or small. However I've scaled down the number of shows I attend. It's just because I've gone to so many of them. I can get what I need to get done by attending only 2 or 3 a year now. The Miami show is just a circus IMO.

The recent one in Vancouver was very good. Fun and good business also.

[Peaches]

I think they each have their pluses and minuses, and I agree that Internext would be better received if AVN wasn't involved in it. Internext seems to draw in the "beer money" webmasters who are sleeping 4 to a room, aren't there to do a lick of business and never buy a meal or a drink the entire time they're there.

The smaller shows like Fay's tend to bring in those who really DO want to do business.

And there are the casual get togethers which IMHO, tend to be the real business opportunities. I'd go to each and every one of these if I had the time and money. :(

I never went to an AWE show, but in reading the boards, there was only one sponsor who was allowed to do business there and when others showed up, they were treated like red headed stepchildren and asked not to return.

I would love to have a small show of those of us who've been in the biz for 4-5 years (which sadly eliminates the newbie - Gonzo :nyanya: ) with no sponsors and everyone pitches in $$$ to cover the food and booze.

[Sharpie]

Ynot sponsored a 'veteran type party for 200 at Montreal 2002. It was nice to walk in a party and know most of the people, for a change.

Sammi (Insite Adult) & I were setting at a party last year at Internext and trying to count the faces we knew. In a crowded room, she came up with 7 and I came up with 5. We almost felt out of place.

[gonzo]

Originally posted by Peaches@Nov 7 2003, 09:56 AM
I think they each have their pluses and minuses, and I agree that Internext would be better received if AVN wasn't involved in it. Internext seems to draw in the "beer money" webmasters who are sleeping 4 to a room, aren't there to do a lick of business and never buy a meal or a drink the entire time they're there.

The smaller shows like Fay's tend to bring in those who really DO want to do business.

And there are the casual get togethers which IMHO, tend to be the real business opportunities. I'd go to each and every one of these if I had the time and money. :(

I never went to an AWE show, but in reading the boards, there was only one sponsor who was allowed to do business there and when others showed up, they were treated like red headed stepchildren and asked not to return.

I would love to have a small show of those of us who've been in the biz for 4-5 years (which sadly eliminates the newbie - Gonzo :nyanya: ) with no sponsors and everyone pitches in $$$ to cover the food and booze.
From a newbie's point of view...I think we should start a move toward supporting and working more with people like Faye who are within the inustry and community and move away from bowing and supporting the efforts of those at AVN.

Ive gotten a ton of business done both at regionals and the big show. The difference is that at the big shows Ive done all my business AWAY of OFF of the floor.

Let them keep the show that attracts the DVD collectors and surfers and lets take back the webmasters show.

Support those that have your best interest in mind.
As Mike said AVN has only one interest in mind-- that being the good of themselves. Think about it when was the last time you saw anyone from that organization come into the community other than to cut and paste out of one of the resource boards as filler?

Where does AVN stand on the Acadia issue? I got a good idea!
When was the last time you heard anything out of them regarding the visa issue?

The only time I hear from them is when its time to book a booth at the show. And trust me the condesending pretense in the messages that they leave lets you know right quick they want your cash.

And when you do have abooth with them...then the print ad staff begins their assault on you.

Its time to support those that try to give back to the community and at least give you more bacng for you buck.

[mojobill]

Ive gotten a ton of business done both at regionals and the big show. The difference is that at the big shows Ive done all my business AWAY of OFF of the floor.


That is one of the nice things that Faye's shows always provided.. a nice room, away from the floor and the blaring rap music where you can actually talk.... and where I'd spend most of my time! ;-)

[kath]

Originally posted by Peaches@Nov 7 2003, 06:56 AM
I never went to an AWE show, but in reading the boards, there was only one sponsor who was allowed to do business there and when others showed up, they were treated like red headed stepchildren and asked not to return.
Not defending AWE, but as someone who worked within that event series for quite awhile - the problem wasn't with sponsors, it was was with folks who showed up to these events NOT sponsoring. I'll admit - THEY were the ones treated as red-headed step-children.

See... it was the higher-ups' idea with this was that only companies who sponsored should be allowed to market to the attendees. It was to be a smaller webmaster event - attendees who were mostly newbies or individual webmasters, with a marketing opportunity for the bigger companies who sponsored to have the full attention of the attendees without having to fight the crowds of sponsors @ say an Internext level.

Now... while the theory made sense - in practice it just didn't. They would have been better off IMHO to charge a registration charge like Fay does and the new Webmaster Access does if they want all who attend to pitch in and pay for stuff. More time was spent policing the events for non-sponsors handing out stuff (I even got in a face-to-face with Max Hardcore in LA once - NOT my idea of a fun afternoon!)... when more energy should have been put into the actual event.

The exclusive sponsorship idea was noble in the beginning - on behalf of the sponsors, but on the boards and within the community - due in part to the behaviors of some of the folks involved with the show - it became regarded more as an elitist event than anything else. Politics are a fact of life, but there's nothing that I hate more than *playing* politics while trying to do a quality job - fortunately as fate would have it, I was lucky enough to be out of that event series in it's final, fateful year.

The road to hell is paved with good intentions... <_<

[kath]

Originally posted by gonzo@Nov 7 2003, 07:17 AM
Its time to support those that try to give back to the community and at least give you more bacng for you buck.
:rokk:

[Peaches]

Originally posted by kath@Nov 7 2003, 11:36 AM
Not defending AWE, but as someone who worked within that event series for quite awhile - the problem wasn't with sponsors, it was was with folks who showed up to these events NOT sponsoring. I'll admit - THEY were the ones treated as red-headed step-children.
Thanks for the explanation, Kath. Not being an attendee, I could only go by what was said on the boards and that combined with my failing memory shows I only knew part of the story. :blink:

[kath]

Originally posted by Peaches@Nov 7 2003, 07:44 AM
Thanks for the explanation, Kath. Not being an attendee, I could only go by what was said on the boards and that combined with my failing memory shows I only knew part of the story. :blink:
You were still pretty damned close though Peaches... the boards may be brutal, but there's always a kernel of truth hiding in between all the bullshit! :groucho:

[Carrie]

Originally posted by Sharpie@Nov 7 2003, 10:15 AM
Ynot sponsored a 'veteran type party for 200 at Montreal 2002. It was nice to walk in a party and know most of the people, for a change.

Most of the people, hehe - I don't think I went more than ten feet from Meat & Aga's sides at that party
You knew me by the end of the show, though! :)

I loved our booth out in the networking area at that show. I think a show with the sponsors in a loose ring (or U-shape) and a huge networking area in the middle (lots of tables and comfortable chairs) would be fantastic. This way the sponsors aren't cut off from the networking area and if they see someone they want to talk to, it's easy enough to leave the booth and go see that person, etc.

[gonzo]

Originally posted by Carrie+Nov 7 2003, 10:53 AM--></span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (Carrie @ Nov 7 2003, 10:53 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteBegin--Sharpie@Nov 7 2003, 10:15 AM
Ynot sponsored a 'veteran type party for 200 at Montreal 2002. It was nice to walk in a party and know most of the people, for a change.

Most of the people, hehe - I don't think I went more than ten feet from Meat & Aga's sides at that party
You knew me by the end of the show, though! :)

I loved our booth out in the networking area at that show. I think a show with the sponsors in a loose ring (or U-shape) and a huge networking area in the middle (lots of tables and comfortable chairs) would be fantastic. This way the sponsors aren't cut off from the networking area and if they see someone they want to talk to, it's easy enough to leave the booth and go see that person, etc.[/b][/quote]
Carrie if you showed more flesh I could probably get you a spot as my willing assistant. I dont know for sure but Id have to run it past the rest of the family. There are 3 qualifying questions...

1. Is it shaved?
2. Do you swallow?
3. Do you take it up the ass?

Let me know...I think theres room in the Purecash booth!

[Sharpie]

Carrie, that is exactly the plan. All the companies will have their space along the perimenter of the networking area. (We might have a few in the center for the Sponsors of the networking bar) They don't even have to be manned all the time..... because you can see them from the networking area. But, if you are talking to someone, you can say "come over here for a minute" and give them a demonstration in your space. We aren't calling them booths - we are calling them SPACE in the networking area. The other good thing is that PEOPLE KNOW WHERE TO FIND YOU. But, we will only have about a dozen spaces available.

We are also trying out a NEW idea, for those who don't want to be tied down at all - but want to make sure they see everyone. Here is the idea:

CORRIDOR CRUSIN’ - on Thursday evening – We are looking for 20 companies who would like to ‘meet friends and influence people, for a very small price. We have bought out the second floor of the Bayside Garden building to bring you this marketing opportunity, so this promotion even includes a room for 3 nights (Wed, Thurs, Friday) Sat night is optional. This event will be held on Thursday night only, from 6pm – 9pm - in a open air walkway outside your room. You will be furnished with a *6 ft table to give away your freebie or hospitality item. Yes, it is a new idea in marketing & no attendee is going to miss this opportunity. Only $1,500 – and yes, that includes a *standard sleeping room for 3 nights! *2 badges. So what is the catch? You have to be willing to give away a freebie, drink, or food item.

I don't think any attendee is going to miss this promotion. Maybe I am out of my mind - but, I think it is an excellent 'meet and greet opportunity at a low price.

What do you think of my ideas? Does it make networking easy????

[gonzo]

Originally posted by kath+Nov 7 2003, 10:36 AM--></span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (kath @ Nov 7 2003, 10:36 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteBegin--Peaches@Nov 7 2003, 06:56 AM
I never went to an AWE show, but in reading the boards, there was only one sponsor who was allowed to do business there and when others showed up, they were treated like red headed stepchildren and asked not to return.
Not defending AWE, but as someone who worked within that event series for quite awhile - the problem wasn't with sponsors, it was was with folks who showed up to these events NOT sponsoring. I'll admit - THEY were the ones treated as red-headed step-children.

See... it was the higher-ups' idea with this was that only companies who sponsored should be allowed to market to the attendees. It was to be a smaller webmaster event - attendees who were mostly newbies or individual webmasters, with a marketing opportunity for the bigger companies who sponsored to have the full attention of the attendees without having to fight the crowds of sponsors @ say an Internext level.

Now... while the theory made sense - in practice it just didn't. They would have been better off IMHO to charge a registration charge like Fay does and the new Webmaster Access does if they want all who attend to pitch in and pay for stuff. More time was spent policing the events for non-sponsors handing out stuff (I even got in a face-to-face with Max Hardcore in LA once - NOT my idea of a fun afternoon!)... when more energy should have been put into the actual event.

The exclusive sponsorship idea was noble in the beginning - on behalf of the sponsors, but on the boards and within the community - due in part to the behaviors of some of the folks involved with the show - it became regarded more as an elitist event than anything else. Politics are a fact of life, but there's nothing that I hate more than *playing* politics while trying to do a quality job - fortunately as fate would have it, I was lucky enough to be out of that event series in it's final, fateful year.

The road to hell is paved with good intentions... <_<[/b][/quote]
Ok but seriously...

I attended those shows in Atlanta. Both as a webmaster and one as the front man for a sponsor. I can see both sides of the issues.
Really I think the problems that the sponsors ran into at those shows...at least in the end were

1. Keynote presentations that turn out to be sponsors pimping their programs without any substance [and what was running out of Rocki's nose doesnt count] is eventually insulting by the end of the day.

2. When you have a show and the person in charge cant get out of bed to open the doors...thats certainly not a preofessional image.

Both of which I blew off until I found out that an ad ran locally advertising the event as an infomercial "get Rich Quick and become an adult webmaster'.

Reminds me of the workshop I stumbled into in Florida. A room filled with people in business attire and laptops taking notes. The best part was when one of the chicks on the panel was telling the notetakers they need to filter out all the overseas traffic and just get rid of it....dump it over to yahoo or something.

Now thats a real industry pro eh Kath?

[gonzo]

Originally posted by Sharpie@Nov 7 2003, 11:13 AM
Carrie, that is exactly the plan. All the companies will have their space along the perimenter of the networking area. (We might have a few in the center for the Sponsors of the networking bar) They don't even have to be manned all the time..... because you can see them from the networking area. But, if you are talking to someone, you can say "come over here for a minute" and give them a demonstration in your space. We aren't calling them booths - we are calling them SPACE in the networking area. The other good thing is that PEOPLE KNOW WHERE TO FIND YOU. But, we will only have about a dozen spaces available.

We are also trying out a NEW idea, for those who don't want to be tied down at all - but want to make sure they see everyone. Here is the idea:

CORRIDOR CRUSIN’ - on Thursday evening – We are looking for 20 companies who would like to ‘meet friends and influence people, for a very small price. We have bought out the second floor of the Bayside Garden building to bring you this marketing opportunity, so this promotion even includes a room for 3 nights (Wed, Thurs, Friday) Sat night is optional. This event will be held on Thursday night only, from 6pm – 9pm - in a open air walkway outside your room. You will be furnished with a *6 ft table to give away your freebie or hospitality item. Yes, it is a new idea in marketing & no attendee is going to miss this opportunity. Only $1,500 – and yes, that includes a *standard sleeping room for 3 nights! *2 badges. So what is the catch? You have to be willing to give away a freebie, drink, or food item.

I don't think any attendee is going to miss this promotion. Maybe I am out of my mind - but, I think it is an excellent 'meet and greet opportunity at a low price.

What do you think of my ideas? Does it make networking easy????
I think this is an Excellent Idea. Is this in San Diego?

[Sharpie]

Yes, San Diego.

The new website will not be up until the end of the month - but I sent out about 100 information sheets to companies on Wed, outling our spaces and sponsorships. Anyone who does not get one, and would like the information - send me an email and I will atatch a copy for you.



Last edited by Sharpie at Nov 7 2003, 11:45 AM

[Carrie]

Sharpie that sounds fantastic, and your open-air event reminds me of old college "around the world" parties.

[gonzo]

Originally posted by Sharpie@Nov 7 2003, 11:44 AM
Yes, San Diego.

The new website will not be up until the end of the month - but I sent out about 100 information sheets to companies on Wed, outling our spaces and sponsorships. Anyone who does not get one, and would like the information - send me an email and I will atatch a copy for you.
gonzo@oprano.com

[Carrie]

I just took a peek at the site inspection pics for the San Diego CybernetExpo - it's gorgeous! And the hall looks like it'll have really easy access to a smoking area outside without having to walk half a mile. (Will there be smoking allowed inside or is SD one of those no-smoking cities?)

[kath]

Originally posted by gonzo@Nov 7 2003, 08:17 AM
Ok but seriously...

I attended those shows in Atlanta. Both as a webmaster and one as the front man for a sponsor. I can see both sides of the issues.
Really I think the problems that the sponsors ran into at those shows...at least in the end were

1. Keynote presentations that turn out to be sponsors pimping their programs without any substance [and what was running out of Rocki's nose doesnt count] is eventually insulting by the end of the day.

2. When you have a show and the person in charge cant get out of bed to open the doors...thats certainly not a preofessional image.

Both of which I blew off until I found out that an ad ran locally advertising the event as an infomercial "get Rich Quick and become an adult webmaster'.

Reminds me of the workshop I stumbled into in Florida. A room filled with people in business attire and laptops taking notes. The best part was when one of the chicks on the panel was telling the notetakers they need to filter out all the overseas traffic and just get rid of it....dump it over to yahoo or something.

Now thats a real industry pro eh Kath?
Gonzo - you make some good points. But you are referring to the events BEFORE they became organized and AFTER things went bad.

It's true - the first AWE I ever attended was the very first LA show. There was a sign-up sheet for sponsors with 15-minute windows of time to SPAM the living sh** out of the attendees. Those spam-fests and a legal speaker (Obenberger, I'm thinking) made up the entire "schedule" of workshop/seminar events.

After that I became involved... Atlanta was the first show with organized speakers - true, some still spammed out of habit from the first few shows - but they soon got whipped into shape and the workshops were very helpful to many attendees - some of whom are still very active in the biz today because of those events. Portland was an excellent venue, surprisingly enough. We had several speakers - who also speak @ the Internext events today - that provided lots of great info to our attendees. There were several shows there where everything just "clicked" - there was so much potential... it was a shame to see it end up like it did.

But there HAS TO BE continuous organization for an event like this to work - Fay can attest to this I'm sure after all her years of work in this area. If the team who is working these shows isn't on the same page, isn't getting the support from the sponsors, isn't staying in CONTROL of the situation - it can go to shit quickly. Just dealing with these assholes who run the hotels/convention centers is a headache and a half.

Fay's ideas for San Diego are hitting the nail on the head IMHO... from what she's posting here she has all the essential elements in place - and is even adding a few unexpected perks in the process that will raise the bar a few notches. I'm really looking forward to this event - as I am with the Phoenix Forum... I really feel that these types of gatherings are making the BEST impact on the webmastering community at this stage in the game.

[kath]

Originally posted by Carrie@Nov 7 2003, 09:48 AM
I just took a peek at the site inspection pics for the San Diego CybernetExpo - it's gorgeous! And the hall looks like it'll have really easy access to a smoking area outside without having to walk half a mile. (Will there be smoking allowed inside or is SD one of those no-smoking cities?)
Unfortunately CALIFORNIA is a no-smoking state. We can't smoke anywhere here - it sucks....

But - you're right that is probably one of the most GORGEOUS areas of San Diego and the views are spectacular - going outside to smoke was probably never as beautiful - lol

I grew up just blocks away from this location - it's amazing. We're hoping to move back there to retire one day... GORGEOUS location! :okthumb:

[KevinG]

Pardon me for being a contrarian in this thread, but I have been to 4 Internext shows, and have returned home quite satisfied with the results every time.

For my businesses (I am involved in more than one), I am interested in doing business with newbies and experienced webmasters, large established companies, and small start-ups. I find all of these at Internext.

I do business there and I definitely enjoy the parties too. It's nice to see people I know at the parties, but it doesn't bother me if I meet a bunch of new people, and only see a few I know at a particular party.

I see old friends and clients, and make new ones every time.

In my experience, AVN has treated me well. I can get their writers and editors on the phone and get email responses within 24-hours. I read AVN Online cover-to-cover every month. They not only publish my press releases, but call me for an interview and more information the same, or next business day I send them PR. I have also found their photographers to be quite accommodating as long as I have a hot chick by my side for a photograph.

I have no affiliation with Internext or AVN, and my only motivation in making this post is because I was surprised at all the negative comments.

For any of you that will be in Vegas in January, I'm looking forward to the opportunity of meeting you. I can be found bouncing back and forth between the booths of http://www.adultchamber.com and http://www.smutdrs.com

I hope to see you there and share a drink and smoke...smoke and a pancake, pipe and crepe, bong and a blintz...

[spazlabz]

Originally posted by Mike AI@Nov 6 2003, 01:43 PM
My number one issue is that Internext is an AVN event, AVN services and owes their allegences to the "old line porn companies", the big video production, distribution companies who want to put US ( the web people) out of business.

The old line video/magazine, see the Internet as their peice of the pie, and are going to continue there efforts to seize it.

Since AVN was made by these companies, they get whatever they want - and the web companies tend to get the shaft. I think this can be seen with what has been going on with some of the patent settlers as well.

AVN does not have the best interest of this community, in my opinion they just want to be aggrigate to help the old line comapnies seize more of our pie.
Are there any plans for a southeast regional show? Like say in the Clearwater/Tampa Bay area? Thats one I could actually attend after next month

spaz

[Sharpie]

Kathy - you are so right. Someone has to be in charge. Always..... Too many cooks in the kitchen... well you know. I delegate more an more, and listen to everyones ideas and comments, BUT the buck has to stop here. Someone has to be responsible for continuity; that keeps the big picture in mind. That probably has been the downfall of many of the smaller projects. It takes determination, experience and maturity. I commend Renee at Internext.... I don't know how she does it. I also think Tom has done an excellent job since he was made editor in chief. He has always been very fair with me. His critisisms are usually valid, and his praise..... well that is a perk.

[TeenGodFather]

I may come if somebody holds a show in finland... maybe, just maybe if it's in eastern sweden.

[gregtx]

I attend lots of shows.. Large, medium, and small...

and I do know that Ya get out of a show what you put into it. If you go to an Internext and only see 5-7 people in a filled room.. then you should focus on being able to meet a whole new group of potential clients. Its just like traffic... you can only convert what you get... and if you only talk to the same people every show.. then you are prolly not getting your monies worth. Aslo setting up meeting via email before you go?

I do enjoy the forums like cybernet expo/phoenix forum where you get to listen to the changes and state of the industry by owners of large companies.. .and the Q & A that follows... it not only lets you see how others feel about the same problems.. but also allows you to ask a question to see if others are having the same issues you may be facing...

but in the end what makes it a good show is the ROI.. period... (IMHO)

its getting harder and harder to spend $50K+ twice a year at internext and make that money back plus profit from that event.

[gregtx]

oops one more thing

Ya need the large shows to have a point where all shows come together..

if you only had regional shows.. you would pretty much need to send someone to everyone of them.. in order to represent and market your company...

and again only the big boys who can afford to send someone to all of the shows would have the biggest impact..

:2cents

[Carrie]

Originally posted by gregtx@Nov 7 2003, 03:55 PM
oops one more thing

Ya need the large shows to have a point where all shows come together..

if you only had regional shows.. you would pretty much need to send someone to everyone of them.. in order to represent and market your company...

and again only the big boys who can afford to send someone to all of the shows would have the biggest impact..

:2cents
But if you're spending $100k/yr now on the two Internext shows, it seems to me that you could hit all of the smaller shows and have money left over.

[Sharpie]

Carrie.... many of the 'big boys would prefer to just have ONE big show a year - blow their wad - and not worry about the rest of the year. So, if you want to see all the sponsors..... you have to have Vegas. Most booths are sold out of 'fear of loss, or ego - so everybody has to be there, to compete.

[gonzo]

Originally posted by kath@Nov 7 2003, 02:25 PM
Reminds me of the workshop I stumbled into in Florida. A room filled with people in business attire and laptops taking notes. The best part was when one of the chicks on the panel was telling the notetakers they need to filter out all the overseas traffic and just get rid of it....dump it over to yahoo or something.


I set Kath up for a shameless plug and she misses it!
Damn!

[kath]

Originally posted by gonzo+Nov 8 2003, 10:42 AM--></span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (gonzo @ Nov 8 2003, 10:42 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteBegin--kath@Nov 7 2003, 02:25 PM
Reminds me of the workshop I stumbled into in Florida. A room filled with people in business attire and laptops taking notes. The best part was when one of the chicks on the panel was telling the notetakers they need to filter out all the overseas traffic and just get rid of it....dump it over to yahoo or something.


I set Kath up for a shameless plug and she misses it!
Damn![/b][/quote]
Naw... I saw it... was just hell bent on making another point in the thread. lol There will be plenty of time for other shameless plugs my dear - trust me. :groucho:

So sorry I missed that workshop - you know I would have jumped to my feet and cried foul! You'll have to hit me up on ICQ and let me know who that was... interesting concept of dumping ANY traffic on Yahoo! or something - ESPECIALLY with all the opportunities out there to convert even so-called crap traffic. lol



Good topic though BTW... I've really enjoyed reading all of the input and experiences posted here.

:okthumb:

[gonzo]

Originally posted by kath+Nov 8 2003, 07:45 PM--></span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (kath @ Nov 8 2003, 07:45 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'>Originally posted by -gonzo@Nov 8 2003, 10:42 AM
<!--QuoteBegin--kath@Nov 7 2003, 02:25 PM
Reminds me of the workshop I stumbled into in Florida. A room filled with people in business attire and laptops taking notes. The best part was when one of the chicks on the panel was telling the notetakers they need to filter out all the overseas traffic and just get rid of it....dump it over to yahoo or something.


I set Kath up for a shameless plug and she misses it!
Damn!
Naw... I saw it... was just hell bent on making another point in the thread. lol There will be plenty of time for other shameless plugs my dear - trust me. :groucho:

So sorry I missed that workshop - you know I would have jumped to my feet and cried foul! You'll have to hit me up on ICQ and let me know who that was... interesting concept of dumping ANY traffic on Yahoo! or something - ESPECIALLY with all the opportunities out there to convert even so-called crap traffic. lol



Good topic though BTW... I've really enjoyed reading all of the input and experiences posted here.

:okthumb:[/b][/quote]
Thanks for participating...
I anticipate there will be more to come...

PLUS [hehe] workshops. Theres a lot of stuff stirring in the background.
Serge sez Im a good earner hahaha