Grab your passport and suitcase, #AVtweeps, because the world’s largest AV trade show is right around the corner. Integrated Systems Europe’s (ISE) annual event brings together tech enthusiasts and AV professionals from around the world for the ultimate celebration of innovation. After a wildly successful year in 2022, ISE will be returning to its home at the Fira Barcelona, Gran Vía in Barcelona, from Jan. 31 – Feb. 3. With 40,000+ expected attendees, over 900 exhibitors and forward-focused programs on sustainability and inclusivity, ISE 2023 is going to be nothing less than grand.

The days are counting down, but planning is only ramping up. With so much to do and so many new people to meet, how do you fit it all in one week? As an ISE newbie myself, I can only imagine what to expect. So, I turned to the trade show pros for advice and asked them to share what they are looking forward to the most at this year’s show. Here is what they had to say …

What would you say to encourage newbies to attend the show?

“The people! You can meet peeps from all over the world and network. Our industry is full of amazing people that are helping to change the way we all experience AV technology.  Say hello to someone new, join the Tweet Up and take time to chat with exhibitors that help drive your personal/professional initiatives.” — Tobi Tungl, Vice President of Business Development, CTI

“Spend a few hours wandering the show floor to better prepare your visit and organize your route. Exhibitors love to reserve time for you. The quality of your visit to them is better with preparation; they can get you the right people and the right materials if they know what you are looking for.” — Richard Jonker, VP Business Development AV-over-IP – EMEA & APAC, NETGEAR

What is something you cannot wait to see on the show floor?

I can’t wait to be a part of the Impact Lounge with SAVe (Sustainability in AV, the first U.S.-based organization to bring stakeholders in the AV industry to take concerted action to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Impact Lounge includes SAVe, Women in Live Music (WILM) and The Circle Society. The Impact Lounge is located in Congress Square, right at the heart of the Fira.” — Kelly Perkins, Marketing Director, THE FARM/RepDonkey

“The Multi-Technology area! This area is where we can appreciate the large scope of innovation in the AV industry. There are many overlapping technologies that help drive innovation both at the office and at home that will be showcased here. Many will drive AV moving forward in more ways than we realize today.” — Tobi Tungl, Vice President of Business Development, CTI

There are endless things to see and do at ISE, so what is your best tip to make the most of the show?

“My best tip to make the most of the show is to list places you want to eat. You are in another country with endless options and having something to eat while hanging with colleagues or new friends is always fun!” — Sharath Abraham, Digital Workplace Consultant, Accenture

“The exhibits are separated into different technology zones which makes it super easy to locate the different booths. Plan each day out in advance and target the booths in zones that are close together.” — Cristiano Fumagalli, Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder, Re Mago

With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, ISE 2023 can be a truly memorable and productive experience. I hope you see you all there!