At the Computer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Daimler AG CEO Dieter Zetsche was recently asked whether information technology has become a top priority. His response was: “Not exactly”, top managers have too little expertise, but it has been declared to be a third strategic focal point for the group. Even the term “Digital Life” shows that there is more at stake nowadays than just a few electronic connections in the car.

Now, the EVVC can’t be compared to Mercedes, although it may already be counted among the premium MICE associations. But what strategic, i.e. forward-looking role does information and communication technology play? Of course we are now beyond flipcharts, projectors, micro ports and Wi-Fi, now feeling more at home in our blogs, on Facebook and Twitter, while using apps, smartphones and perhaps even tablet PCs and relaunching our interactive venue websites for the umpteenth time.

But what about Augmented Reality, Biometrics, cloud computing, Holographic Design, Hybrid Events, Interactive Surfaces, Internet of Things, QR Codes, RFID, Robotics, Semantic Web, Telepresence, Virtual Assistance, Video on Demand, Voice Control, wearable displays, 3D, 4D, 6D, to name just a few of the web 2.0 and social media trends?

PS:. Incidentally, this was Gaidas 50th guest commentary since 2007, a reflection of our event and venue world. Thanks to everyone who dropped by. That's enough, now it’s time to pass the torch.

gaida@gaidaconsult.de