2011 Event Programs Discussion

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mark W. Van Patten on June 2, 2011 at 10:28am

Program Outline Review/Brainstorming - June 1

Significant attention and consideration were given to the question of whether to change the venue of WiN and attempt to hold it solely within LaSells Stewart Center or remain in both facilities as was done previously.  This consideration was prompted by the concern of cost and resources expended to manage the logistics of the larger venue.  The value of the Alumni Center  vs. LaSells was considered from a branding, size, uniqueness and opportunity to exhibit perspective.

Outcomes:         

• It was decided to continue to use Alumni center for the value of its flexibility and size, and the ability to retain the uniqueness created by working with Conference Services and Special Occasions.  Concerns regarding resources to maintain placement within this venue were addressed by the SAO PDX efforts to recruit corporate sponsors and commitment of local/committee efforts to recruit and manage volunteer resources.
• Firm elements of the program were identified and known/decided to include:

a)      Current confirmed/available speakers:

1. Chandra Brown, current keynote (potentially one of two)
2. Ben Berry, AirShip VTOL Transformer
3. Tony Bash, CEO of Human Not Hollywood

b)      The Office of Research will hold its patent award presentations at WiN

c)       The Division of Business and Engineering is considering holding its BEcommunity collaborative commercialization-focused sponsorship awards at WiN

d)      Continued identification of technology/industry tracks for content.  For this year

1. a.       Manufacturing & Innovation
2. b.      Healthcare Innovation
3. c.       Mobile Technologies Innovation
4. d.      Cloud Computing

• Recognition of the need for better marketing and awareness efforts to raise awareness and create higher value of WiN
  • Focus on digital media – website, bogging, Facebook, twitter, email lists,
  • Weekly promotional campaign leading up to the event featuring exhibitors and adding value to sponsors

Permalink Reply by Jason Prothero on June 2, 2011 at 10:58am

What do people think about a structured networking area? 

 

Basically, you can reserve a table in a room for 15-30 minutes to chat with someone on the network specific.  Could be investors talking to start-ups, people in complimentary industries getting to know each other, job seekers and companies, or service providers and innovative companies.

 

Thoughts?

Permalink Reply by Mark W. Van Patten on June 3, 2011 at 9:58am

Cool idea Jason.  Let's see if we can find a space and time slot for it.

Permalink Reply by Loyan Roylance on June 3, 2011 at 10:33am

I still like the idea of speed dating.

Permalink Reply by Jason Prothero on June 2, 2011 at 10:59am

Another thought:  I think its important to have a clear time when the conference moves to La Sells.  Afternoon activities are all in CH2M and evening activities in La Sells.  None of this back and forth stuff.

Permalink Reply by Mark W. Van Patten on June 3, 2011 at 10:00am

There will have to be some back and forth given the lunch, and the keynote placements in the auditorium.