The Future of the Internet of Things Highlighted at South by Southwest Interactive
March 16, 2015
At the ongoing South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive, as expected, one of the biggest buzz is about the emerging world of Internet of Things (IoT) for Consumers.
In a number of conference sessions I attended during the first two days at the event, leaders from the technology space shared both their enthusiasm as well as concerns about the impact of IoT on our long term future.
Connected smart devices that automatically share information with each other and collect data about the users' activities are set to become ubiquitous.
While it is anticipated that these new technologies will make our lives more interesting and much easier in some ways, there also is a lot of debate on the possible negative repercussions of IoT.
A lot of questions remain unanswered, but it was good to see these concerns being brought up and discussed openly by the very people who design, create and market these new age technology solutions.
Though one heard a lot of differing views, on the whole, a broad consensus was apparent on the following three points:
- Consumers' concerns about privacy need to be addressed proactively by policy makers and technology companies.
- Brands need to be open about when and what data they are recording, storing and sharing.
- Brands are accountable for both the security of users’ data as well as for using the information responsibly.
No doubt the debate will continue to rage for the next few years, but technological evolution is hurtling forward at an exponentially growing speed, and it is up to both producers and consumers to work together and ensure that it delivers on the tremendous promise it holds out for the society.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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