AVIXA hosted its first-ever complete virtual InfoComm show – InfoComm 2020 Connected – 16-18 June, bringing together AV professionals from around the globe to learn about the latest products from top manufacturers, tune into keynotes and presentations on trends in technology and markets, and forge new relationships.
“When we made the decision to cancel the InfoComm 2020 show in Las Vegas, the AVIXA team was determined to gather the industry together for an immersive experience of learning, engagement, and networking in a virtual online event.” said Rochelle Richardson, CEM, Senior Vice President of Expositions and Events, AVIXA. “The enthusiasm and participation for InfoComm 2020 Connected exceeded expectations and reinforced something we already knew – the pro AV industry is resilient. Our world is undoubtedly changing, and we recognize the need to be agile and change with it. While we anticipate virtual and hybrid to be a part of the conversation, we look forward to when we’ll return to the in-person event and everyone joins us for InfoComm 2021 in Orlando.”
Total registrations for InfoComm 2020 Connected came to 23,408, and 41% of attendees were from outside the U.S. The show featured 495 exhibitors, and views of the exhibitor showcases came to 53,433.
The show’s sessions were highly viewed – totaling 59,662. There were 74 live sessions and on-demand presentations from 67 companies. Live sessions were presented for 11 hours each day from 6am to 10pm (EDT) to reach attendees globally. Popular topics included conferencing and collaboration; fusing space, technology, and content; trends that have emerged through the COVID crisis; higher education; and the state of the industry.
David Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, CEO of AVIXA, delivered the keynote address on AV’s role in creating a post-COVID world that combines the best of physical and virtual experiences. Labuskes was then joined by Kate Wik, Chief Marketing Officer, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, who discussed the intricate safety measures the city is taking as it gradually reopens for business. The session also featured Sam Taylor, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Almo Professional A/V, who talked about the technology advancements and macroeconomic factors that have driven the pro AV industry’s evolution.
The AVIXA Women’s Council hosted its annual breakfast event on 18 June, with keynote speaker Sara Potecha, author of West Point Woman. Potecha was one of the first women to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point. She discussed the competitive environment of the academy and the physical, educational, and mental challenges she experienced. Her talk centered on leading through crisis with character, competence, and composure. “Leaders are there to anticipate problems, foresee setbacks, and prepare for new challenges, which creates a whole lot of change and adaption skills,” said Potecha.
Attendees embraced virtual networking during InfoComm 2020 Connected – 1,117 exhibitor meetings were scheduled, and 14,277 chat messages were exchanged. The InfoComm 2020 Connected virtual platform will remain live through 21 August for attendees to browse exhibitor showcases and view on-demand sessions.
InfoComm 2021 will take place 12-18 June (exhibits 16-18 June) at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.