2013 NAB Show Blends Creativity and Innovation
April 17, 2013
From large screens to small, the future of broadcast and digital media was in the spotlight at the National Association of Broadcasters’ NAB Show 2013 that took place April 6-11 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
NAB reported exhibit space grew nearly 10 percent, compared with 2012. The event had 1,600 exhibitors spanning 900,000 net square feet of exhibit space, up from 815,000 net sq. ft. in 2012. Attendance was also up at 92,414, compared with 91,565 last year.
“It’s shaping up to be our best show since the last peak in 2008,” said Chris Brown, NAB executive vice president of conventions and business operations.
From mobile video delivery to web content development and pending broadcast spectrum regulations, there’s plenty happening in the broadcast industry, and the show is quick to respond to the changes with new programming.
“It’s a very disruptive time, but we can bring people together to zero in on where the opportunities are,” Brown said.
At the Disruptive Media Conference, for example, broadcasters could explore developments in online video, mobile and branded entertainment.
The Connected Media World focused was on the changing consumer habits of media consumptions and the technology that’ shaping the experience, such as IPTV and multiscreen projection onto your living room wall. SPROCKIT gave 10 innovative startups a moment to shine among the big guys.
The buzz on the floor was about 4K, also known as Ultra HD, the next generation of high definition that lets you count every eyelash.
Brown said, “Each time a generational shift occurs, there are new opportunities for us. It drives attendance and generates new exhibiting eco systems.”
The new cool thing next year is likely to be 8K, Super Hi-Vision system that was demoed at the show by the Japanese public broadcaster NHK at NAB’s Futures Park.
It’s always a good sign when by the last day exhibitors are about to lose their voice. Lukas Hurwitz, marketing manager for Inovonics, said they had a very busy four days and successfully launched four products.
The company has becoming to NAB for close to 40 years and he added they consider it a must-attend event for the radio industry.
Hurwitz said he was very pleased with the quality of the leads, adding, “It looks like people who’d been waiting for the past few years are finally ready to spend some money.”
First-time attendee Wayne Giesbrecht, media developer for University of Saskatchewan, was focusing on new ideas of tapeless asset management.
An audio engineer by trade, he said he enjoyed learning about new technologies, especially green screens without the actual screen and computerized handheld steadycam.
“Seeing that in person was very cool,” Giesbrecht added.
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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