Getting the Most from Tradeshows

Attending a tradeshow can pay big dividends for even small companies. The right show can provide networking opportunities, give insights on competitors, and update you on developments in your industry. But tradeshows can be overwhelming, especially if you decide to attend a large-scale event. To maximize the experience, consider these suggestions from CIRAS staff members:

  • Create a list of specific “pain points” or challenges you and your customers are currently facing or might face in the future.
  • Prioritize your list; you want get to every vendor you want to see.
  • Evaluate which exhibitors you would like to visit based on your needs. Many shows have websites that allow you to search a list of exhibitors using key words. This will help you narrow your focus.
  • Create a list of questions to ask exhibitors to ensure you get answers to your questions. These responses will allow you to compare exhibitors.
  • Make a “walking” map of your targeted exhibitors. Many shows have websites that provide a map of the floor with exhibitor locations.

CIRAS Staff attended the 2022 International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) held recently in Chicago.  This weeklong show, which is offered every two years, is the largest manufacturing technology show in North America with more than 1.21 million square feet of exhibit space representing over 1,800 exhibitors.  The show featured numerous operating technologies across nine pavilions showing solutions such as multi-tasking machining centers, robots/cobots, manufacturing software, controls, additive manufacturing, and quality control/inspection systems.

The group learned about technology enhancements, viewed competing technologies in action, met resellers/resources that could be utilized by CIRAS clients, and gained insights into market trends that will drive many future CIRAS events. We are anxious to share this knowledge with our clients.

If you have questions regarding tradeshows or would like to arrange a meeting with CIRAS staff at a future tradeshow, contact your CIRAS account manager.