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I sat down this morning to write a piece about how unremarkable the Atlanta GIS event likely will be. There are no burning political issues on the GCSAA election ballot. Attendance probably will be mediocre. There are no exciting changes in the exhibit space planned (e.g., last year’s inaugural Building of the Green). In short, it seems like a ho-hum edition of the Big Show.
But, as I pondered which droll and witty put-downs I would use to badmouth the show, I heard a quiet voice in my head saying, “You know, it could be worse …” Here’s why.
We’re lucky the show is happening at all. The millions of dollars it generates substantially underwrite the GCSAA, NGCOA and other professional groups that rely on that revenue to operate without charging dues that would be four or five times what they are now. Even if you don’t go to the show, you benefit from the resources it provides to underwrite nonrevenue programs such as lobbying, public relations and cheaper education.
We’re lucky the show hasn’t crashed and burned like many others. Many industries have seen their major trade shows collapse because of an economic downturn, bad management or changes in the market. The GIS, however, remains relatively strong in the scheme of things. That’s an indicator our industry is healthier than some think.
We’re lucky to have attendees who actually visit the trade show. Hey, show traffic is always an issue, but the majority of exhibitors I talk with year after year generally are happy with the quality and quantity of people they see on the floor. I’ve been to shows in other industries where the floor is the last place conference-goers want to visit. The result? Suppliers eventually bag the event, and the show dies.
We’re lucky to have association staff who can tap-dance faster than Shirley Temple. (OK, I’ve dated myself with that reference, but trust me on this.) The GIS is one of the 100 largest trade shows in America. Each show site demands years of planning, visits and a bazillion little logistical details. We’ve had three sites in three months. I’ve said it before: Bitch all you want about the associations but never take the dedication, expertise and hard work of the staff for granted. When you see them, let them know you appreciate the minor miracle they’ve pulled off here.
Finally, we’re lucky that we have a professional spirit that seems to make it mandatory we gather nationally every year to share ideas, tell lies, overimbibe and bond together as an industry.
All that said … Atlanta? Yech. See you there anyway.
