Hi everyone! I returned last Thursday after attending the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) seminars and exhibits in Orlando, Florida. There were a lot of great things going on at this year’s show but I was disappointed in the exhibits.
Let’s start off with the positives.
Networking
This was my fourth time attending the ASIS convention, the last one being in New Orleans in 2003. Way before Twitter and Facebook. It was great to see ASIS taking a serious push into the social media world. ASIS had set up a Twitter roll on their website and a hastag #ASIS11 for all attendees to follow, share and engage in the conversation.
There were impromptu meet-ups constantly going on as attendees roamed the convention halls with business cards at the ready.
ASIS App
Another great positive was the ASIS App. It had several improvements and useful features like “you are here” map, exhibitor list where you can create a “short list” of the exhibitors you wanted to see, an agenda, notes and so much more. Fantastic app!
Technology
It was great to see exhibitors using the new innovations in technology. Such as QR (QuicK Response) Codes, Twitter, Facebook, and web based solutions. Great improvements on CCTV solutions. When I was working in hotel security about 12 years ago we had black and white CCTV monitors and the cameras were the size of volkswagen beetles. Now, the cameras are HD and color, most on Wifi and with pan tilt zoom features. All really neat stuff.
OK, here are my negatives.
Attendance
In my opinion, this was the worst I’ve seen in attendance. I don’t have numbers to support this but the aisles were not very full for the three days I was there. I talked to quite a few of the people at the booths and they all were complaining about the low attendance. Perhaps with the poor economy folks couldn’t afford the airfare or hotel costs.
Too Much of One Thing
Cameras, CCTV, barriers systems and door locks were well represented – maybe too well. There was a plethora of companies showing off these products. I think there needs to be more diversity among the exhibitors.
Standout
There was one standout for me personally – that was iJet’s OpenMind. A serious bit of software that scrapes internet data and pieces it all together like a breadcrumb trail. First that I’ve seen that goes that extra step to see how the pieces of data are connected to one another and digs deep below the surface of websites and social networks. This tool has so many uses from preventing crime and risk mitigation, to protecting your brand, business or the CEO.
Overall Impression
ASIS is and always will be the premiere event to network face to face with like minded security professionals. The seminars and certifications are fantastic and one of kind. In my book, attending ASIS is a must. Put it on your calendar for next year. See you in Philly!
