IAEE Releases White Paper on Wi-Fi and Mobile Challenges in the Exhibitions and Events Industry
April 8, 2012
With more and more smartphones and other devices on the showfloor that require additional Wi-Fi and mobile bandwith, convention and meeting venues’ existing networks are being tasked with keeping up with the demand.
To address this issue, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events released its White Paper, “Wi-Fi and Mobile Challenges in the Exhibitions and Events Industry”, in response to bandwith concerns expressed by various segments of the industry.
The IAEE Wi-Fi and Mobile Bandwidth Task Force was created to work on this effort.
"The explosive growth of tablet computers and smartphones is revolutionizing the way business is conducted," said IAEE President Steven Hacker.
He added, "While there is much to celebrate, the downside of the phenomenon is placing extraordinary strains upon bandwidth and connectivity, which have become vital elements for the success of most exhibitions and events.”
In order the gather information of the bandwith issue, a survey was sent in April 2011 to IAEE exhibition organizer, exhibitor and facility members.
Here are some of the viewpoints offered from exhibitors, attendees, facilities, show organizers and Internet service providers:
Exhibitors have higher expectations about the quality of the Internet connectivity when purchasing services.
Because attendees’ connectivity experiences outside the convention facility are frictionless, many do not understand the complex issues that exist when so many consumers are forced into a confined space, such as a convention facility, at one time.
Facilities want assistance from show managers to eliminate rogue access points from the exhibition floor to reduce interference with the facility’s network.
Show management is more aggressively utilizing Wi-Fi as a sponsorship and advertising tool.
The increasing demand for wireless Internet access could, in the future, impact the ability of providers to maintain the technology required to deliver consistent hard-wired connections and a range of connectivity options.
“IAEE is pleased to have produced an essential learning resource thanks to the participation of members who are both consumers of internet connectivity and providers and hosts of infrastructure,” Hacker said.
He added, “We know that many members will find the White Paper very helpful in understanding the challenges we must manage and that ultimately we must all collaborate to develop solutions."
The IAEE White Paper, “Wi-Fi and Mobile Challenges in the Exhibitions and Events Industry”, is available for purchase at www.tradeshowstore.com.
The white paper is free to IAEE members and costs $39.95 for nonmembers.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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