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Detailed Conference Agenda

DAY ONE:
Monday, June 16th, 2008

7:45 AM Registration Opens and Continental Breakfast

8:45 AM Opening Comments from the Chairperson

Lyle Bunn, Strategy Architect, BUNN Co.

9:00 AM Digital Signage 101

Overview, Benefits and Key Elements

Digital signage receives 10 times the eye contact of static signage and is creating cost-effective opportunities to improve customer service, safety, way finding, branding, training, and communications. This session will outline exactly what digital signage is, its key elements and its usage in different markets.

David Keene, Executive Editor, Digital Signage Magazine

9:30 AM Panel:

Emergency Alert and Notification: Integrating Digital Signage as Part of the Overall Response Program

A network of screens with real-time data feed capabilities can be a powerful link for instant mass communication in times of urgency. School campuses, hospitals, corporate facilities, and public spaces can benefit from the ability to reach people immediately.

• Use digital signage to complement PA, mobile, email, RSS alerts, and more
• Override existing screen content at multiple locations
• Designate and train appropriate staff to initiate messaging

Learn how digital signage may help minimize harm with effective and immediate delivery of key information during emergencies.

Paul Cell, Chief of Police, Montclair State University
Stephen Abrams, Emergency Management Coordinator, Penn State University & Centre Region
Alison Kiss, Program Director, Security On Campus

10:15 AM Mid-Morning Networking Break

Enjoy a cup of coffee and discuss the program with your peers.

10:45 AM Public Sector Case Study:
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)

Enhancing Internal Communications: Reach Staff in Varying Capacities and Work Environments Through Digital Signage

NAVSEA buys and maintains the Navy’s ships and submarines, and their combat systems. It is the largest of the Navy’s five systems commands. As part of its communication strategy with the 3200 civilian, military and contractors at its headquarters in DC, NAVSEA is rolling out digital signage.

• Rationalize the investment in digital signage
• Hear future plans to further integrate digital signage into operations
• Learn key approval criteria for government purchases

Realize the value of digital signage in a government/manufacturing environment.

Patricia Dolan, Deputy Director of Corporate Communications, Naval Sea Systems Command

11:30 AM Panel

Software Options: A Framework for Selection to Ensure Interoperability, Fit and Success

At the core of the digital signage project is the software platform. A robust system can intelligently create, format, and manage content, scheduling, and data. Given the myriad of choices available on the market, let this session be your guide.

• Learn how to determine your needs and resources for the best fit
• Explore security, scalability, digital rights management, and bandwidth control
• Consider reporting mechanisms – error logs, feedback loop, etc.

Make an informed choice when it comes to your software investment.

Tom Nix, VP & GM, Dynamax Technologies LLC
Ted Dembicki, VP of Business Development for InfoCaster Digital Signage, Harris Corporation
More to come…

12:15 PM Networking Luncheon

1:30 PM End-User Panel

Meeting Expectations: What Users of Digital Signage Expect From Service Providers

How can you exceed expectations and win new business? Listen to your customers! Join this panel and hear what higher education, corporate, and health care facilities are looking for when it comes to a digital signage project.

• Recognize the needs of different markets
• Be aware of what’s working well and what can be improved
• Discover what decision-makers expect from industry providers

Use this critical market research information to better your service offerings.

Shah Ardalan, Chief Information Officer, Lone Star College System
Jeffrey McDowell, Global Internal Communications & Health Care External Communications, Procter & Gamble
Gregg Tarquinio, Vice Chair for Finance & Administration, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

2:15 PM

Exploring Extra Large Displays for Impact and Value

Sometimes bigger is better! Used at shopping malls, airports, stadiums, and more, extra large displays make a point. Come to this session for the scoop on current display options and their associated features.

Mike Sparlin, Director of Marketing, AccelerOptics LLC

2:25 PM Panel

Hardware Analysis: Making an Informed Investment for Your Location

You will spend thousands of dollars on a digital signage project. Achieve a clear and practical understanding of the best displays based on your needs with a run-down on leading suppliers.

• Determine key selection criteria for the right display
• Explore when to use what: LCD, LED, plasma, projection, and HD
• Differentiate commercial versus consumer display features and pricing

Take away valuable knowledge to make your next investment decision the right one.

Tony Turiello, General Manager, Sports & Entertainment, Panasonic Systems Integration
Mike Sparlin, Director of Marketing, AccelerOptics LLC
Sanju Khatri, Principal Analyst, Projection & Large Screen Displays, iSuppli Corporation

3:15 PM Mid-Afternoon Networking Break

Enjoy light refreshments and continue the discussion with your peers.

3:45 PM Case Study: Virginia Railway Express

Facilitating Way Finding and Information Delivery: Digital Signage to Keep Passengers Moving Safely and Efficiently

The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) serves an average of 17,000 riders on a daily basis. Hear about the recent upgrades to its digital signage system for train and passenger information, including switching from LEDs to LCDs.

• Integrating in-house data systems with the network of screens
• Identifying mounting and hardware challenges
• Meeting audio and visual requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Invest wisely and create an effective system for timely passenger communications.

Robert K. Keelor, Jr., Vice President, International Display Systems, Inc.

4:30 PM

Generating New Revenue Streams Through Advertising and Sponsorship

The equipment is provided at no cost. Production, scheduling, software, hardware, and maintenance costs are also covered. A third-party operated network exists in many venues and locations, but is it right for you?

• Enhance your environment with targeted programming
• Assess the level of control on advertising and information messaging
• Hear realities, opportunities and challenges for implementation

Explore whether advertising-based networks will be a fit for your organization and location.

Peter Corrigan, President, Submedia & The University Network (TUN)
Stephen Nesbit, President & Chief Operating Officer, Reflect Systems Inc.

5:00 PM Exclusive Cocktail Reception

Bring your business cards and network with your peers and leaders in digital signage services and products.

Day Two:
Tuesday, June 17th, 2008

7:45 AM Continental Breakfast

8:45 AM Day One Recap by the Chairperson

9:00 AM Case Study: Procter & Gamble

Revitalizing Corporate Communications: Digital Signage to Effectively Engage Employees and Foster Corporate Culture

As part of a redesign of its global health care headquarters in 2006, Procter & Gamble introduced digital signage to improve facility esthetics and enhance employee communications. More than a dozen screens are placed throughout the 1.6 million sq. ft. campus. Hear what P&G has learned over time!

• Tips for managing the conversion from paper to digital signage communications
• Messaging and content standards to improve effectiveness
• The Human Factor – enrolling the right people and managing processes

Jeffrey McDowell, Global Internal Communications & Health Care External Communications, Procter & Gamble
Jim Huber, Director of Sales & Business Development, NOR-COM Inc.

9:45 AM Case Study:
Fira de Barcelona (Convention Centre)

Leveraging Technology and Targeted Messaging to Create a Memorable Public and Visitor Experience

With its two venues, Montjuïc and Gran Via, the Fira de Barcelona boasts the largest trade fair area in Spain. Hear how large projectors, video screen walls and LED strips form its dynamic communication channel.

• Explore content challenges and opportunities for all the screens
• Direct traffic flow and boost sales for restaurants, activities, etc.
• Enhance the environment with positive digital visuals

See how different applications of digital signage can add value to your organization and space.

Ignacio Lamarca, CEO, Focus on Emotions

10:15 AM Mid-Morning Networking Break

Enjoy a cup of coffee and discuss the program with your peers.

10:45 AM

Request for Proposal: Formulating the RFP for the Best Results

Given the available products and services on the market for digital signage, how do you coherently put together a request to meet your needs? Come to this session for suggestions on how to prepare and respond to proposals.

• Learn the right questions to ask and address
• Identify your objectives and budget
• Compare and contrast bid structures

Be concise and smart about your RFP so you end up with the right solutions providers for you.

Phil Lombardi, Director of Academic Computing & Media Services, Bryant University
Mary Hood, CEO, Digital Roads Incorporated

11:30 AM Case Study: Mayo Clinic

Strategies to Measure the Effectiveness of a Digital Signage Network

To facilitate communications and training for the 50,000+ staff across its facilities in Minnesota, Florida and Arizona, the Mayo Clinic incorporated a digital media network in 2004. Hear an overview of the network and how the leading organization is evaluating its continued success.

• Save costs through the ability to reach multiple locations at one time
• Increase staff, patient and public knowledge through dynamic digital signage
• Implement strategic initiatives to measure network effectiveness

Take away knowledge to measure the effectiveness of your network and maximize ROI.

Paul Bleimeyer, Manager, Media Support Services, Mayo Clinic

12:15 PM Networking Luncheon

1:30 PM

Innovative Debt Financing Techniques to Raise Funds for Your Digital Signage Project

Once you recognize the value of a digital signage network for your organization, how will you finance it? There are new emerging options in the market place that could be a fit for your project. Hear opportunities in creative debt financing including…

• Asset-backed financing options
• Private placements
• Debt leverage and leasing

Hear about financing solutions to help get your digital signage project off the ground.

Bernie Shimkovitz, CEO, Alliance Financing Group Inc.

2:15 PM In-house vs. Outsourcing

Determining the Best Network Operations Model for Your Digital Signage Project

As facilities look to adopt or expand their digital signage network, a key consideration is who will run and manage the screens. To maximize a return on investment, organizations need to understand better the intricacies of maintaining a network.

• Understand elements and costs – installation, content, maintenance, and more
• Assess the pros and cons of in-house vs. outsourcing
• Evaluate internal strengths and weaknesses and the resources available

Understand the costs for a digital signage project so you can make the best decision for your organization.

Mike White, President, Multi-Media Solutions Inc.
Jay Rogina, CEO, Spinitar

3:00 PM Mid-Afternoon Networking Break

3:30 PM Panel

Media Network Strategies: Making the Right Choice

Will your existing network be able to support your digital signage needs? This session will outline step-by-step decisions on making the link and staying connected.

• Determine the best network link: satellite, cable, WiFi, cellular, internal, or separate stand-alone
• Factor in your vertical and network set-ups for the best fit
• Explore network operation, maintenance and security issues

Ensure you choose the network link that best matches your organizational needs and resources.

Kris Vollrath, Vice President, Advanced AV
Greg Weaver, Manager, Digital Signage Networks, Microspace Communications
Keith Kelsen, President & CEO, The MediaTile Company
Steven Goldfine, Vice President, Sales, National Datacast, Inc.

4:15 PM Panel

Best Practices of Digital Signage Deployments: Save Time, Money and Frustration

No matter the scale and scope of your digital signage project, you want to ensure you make the best decisions for your organization.

• Setting client expectations
• Planning, planning, planning
• Understanding success factors from pilot to rollout

Take away insights from the experts and maximize your chance for success.

Jim Huber, Director of Sales & Business Development, NOR-COM Inc.
Mark Webster, President & CEO, Rollouts
Paul Wisniewski, EVP of Operations, Indoor Direct

5:30 PM Conference Adjourns

6:00 PM InfoComm Opening Reception

Enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails while you meet new colleagues and catch up with old friends at InfoComm’s most legendary networking event. A must attend!