The International Builders’ Show hits
Orlando again next week. For
those who have never been to the show before — and even
those who have — this show can be overwhelming. Its sheer size, plus
number of exhibit booths, seminars, and receptions can be enough to
give someone a headache when trying to plan for an efficient show
experience.
Making sure the trip to IBS is successful and worth the money and time
away from the office is important. RD+B
magazine has prepared a few must-haves and must-visits for next week.
If you have other suggestions, send an email to editor@rdbmagazine.com.
Utilize
IBS’ My Show Planner. By
creating an account on IBS’ website,
you can search exhibitors and events. After finding the ones you want
to see, click on the box for the respective event to populate
it a calendar. My Show Planner neatly organizes your week by
day with all the appropriate information you need for each event. Print
out the schedule before heading to the show or use your smartphone to
view it when walking the show floor.
Twitter.
Check out the conversation with all those who are talking about IBS.
The hashtag is #IBS2011.
You can also follow @RDBmagazine,
magazine editor
@MaureenEditor,
and @IBS2011.
IBS will also be holding an official Tweetup on Wed., Jan. 12 from 6 to
8 p.m. Tickets to the Tweetup are only available on a first come, first
served basis at the IBS Theme Center W5271.
Get
the app. NAHB offers a mobile app specifically for IBS 2011.
Use the app to access show info, schedule your days, and follow IBS
Twitter updates. The mobile app is available for iPhone, iPod Touch,
BlackBerry and Android phones.
Participate
in the Custom Builder Symposium.
Formerly a stand-alone event usually held in October, this event takes place concurrently
with IBS. Sessions start Monday
and carry through to Saturday. The Custom Home Builder of the Year
reception is Wednesday evening at 5 p.m. – an event not to
miss. On Friday, Rob Heselbarth, editorial director of RD+B
will recognize 2010 Excellence Award winners during the Lowe’s
Commercial Services luncheon (12 to 1 p.m.). Those getting recognition
include: Phil
Kean Designs, Dominick
Tringali Architects, Neal-Prince
Architects and Windstar Homes.
Exhibits.
Many manufacturers wait until IBS to launch their newest products. Take
advantage of seeing them in person. Play around with the products and
utilize the manufacturers’ engineers to ask questions.
Have a great show!