On my way through Chicago O’Hare International Airport recently, I saw a great billboard ad. It simply read: “Before social networks there were lobbies.”

SO true. I’ve said it before: no amount of web-based social networking can replace the real thing at a potent industry event as well as during the hours before and after it.

This year’s OSP EXPO is a perfect example. Since I was on-site at the Minneapolis Convention Center well before the floor opened, I saw it all first-hand: attendees having coffee and sharing ways to battle the legacy network when loop lengths were too long to deliver high-bandwidths. Post-show, I was blessed to be befriended by an old business acquaintance, his CEO, and a fantastically fun and wise Cincy Bell manager. Together, over a few beverages, we solved the problems of the OSP world. Talk about high-leverage networking!

Reviewing the early attendee survey results from the show indicate that many of you feel the same way. It’s not about the biggest or the hottest or the most-hyped trade show. It’s about the connections you make and the action items you take away that will convert into strategic gains.

Oh, and let’s remember that a little FREE education, 200 exhibits, and powerful keynote presentations and panels can help matters as well. (Don’t miss the full OSP EXPO photo gallery in the November issue!)

Did you miss it?
Best mark your calendars for next year.

Sharon Vollman 

October 13-14, 2010  |  San Antonio, Texas