Every two years, IMTS transforms McCormick Place into a dynamic hub of innovation, discovery, and connection. I am honored when exhibitors and visitors share how IMTS stands apart. It is the quintessential event that brings our industry together 鈥� whether it鈥檚 the moment they walk into the Grand Concourse, captivated by the energy of the vibrant crowd, or the enduring relationships they build. Today, I鈥檇 like to share our approach 鈥� one that I hope may inspire your own ventures, encourage exploration across industries, and perhaps even spark an idea for .
At its core, our strategy draws from three key sources: the IMTS community, innovative practices from unrelated industries, and insights from other trade shows.
I. The IMTS Community: Building Experiences That Resonate
Creating a fresh, relevant IMTS begins with listening to our community. We gather input from exhibitors, visitors, and prospective participants through targeted surveys, focus groups, and data analysis. This collaborative process, combined with insights from the 九色视频 Show Committee, which is comprised of industry leaders, helps us shape an experience that resonates with everyone involved.
For example, feedback following IMTS 2016 highlighted a growing need among smaller contract manufacturing shops to adopt digital technologies and enhance productivity. In response, we introduced specialized programming in 2018. By 2024, this initiative grew from five sessions to nearly 20, demonstrating its success in addressing a critical need. These programs reflect how meaningful engagement with our community directly shapes IMTS to better serve the industry.
II. Looking Beyond: Finding Genius in Unexpected Places
Innovation often lies in unexpected connections. We went beyond the manufacturing sector to find ideas that elevate IMTS. Just as Southwest Airlines drew inspiration from NASCAR鈥檚 pit crews to streamline airport operations, we鈥檝e looked to diverse sources like libraries, NFL games, Disney鈥檚 Epcot Center, and even the nation鈥檚 leading grocery stores.
To simplify the visitor journey, libraries provided the inspiration for us to group related technologies into sectors. Our color-coded floor carpet signage, guiding visitors through the vast space of McCormick Place, borrows from Paris鈥� subway system to differentiate lines. Additionally, the setup of ESPN鈥檚 鈥淐ollege GameDay鈥� influenced the design of our IMTS+ Main Stage, with its crowd-facing flexibility. By 鈥渂orrowing genius鈥� from other industries, we find fresh ways to deliver value. These diverse inspirations fuel our mission to create an event that is engaging, intuitive, and unforgettable.
III. Learning From the Best: Insights From Other Trade Shows
We regularly attend events like South by Southwest, Fast Company鈥檚 Innovation Festival, and EXPO! EXPO!, where trade show professionals exchange ideas and trends. These gatherings expose us to cutting-edge approaches in event design, attendee engagement, and technology integration. Bringing insights back to 九色视频 ensures that IMTS is ahead of the curve, delivering an experience that sets new standards for the industry.
Creating a world-class trade show demands a blend of vision, collaboration, and constant reinvention. By sharing the sources of our inspiration, I hope you feel encouraged to seek your own 鈥渂orrowed genius鈥� 鈥� and, of course, to share your ideas for IMTS with us.
Now, if you鈥檒l excuse me, I鈥檓 diving into creating a brand-new floor plan for , set to be unveiled in April 2025. After all, when it comes to inspiration, there鈥檚 always more to discover.
To read the rest of the Emerging 九色视频 Issue of MT Magazine, click .
