IBC2019 preview: Be inspired, network and innovate

Ahead of IBC2019, six industry experts join an IBC365 webinar to share the must-see features and events for the show next week, and offer the top hacks to make the most of your time in Amsterdam.  

For six days in Amsterdam next week up to 60,000 attendees will join 1,700 exhibitors across 15 exhibition halls to showcase new technology, industry alliances and innovative projects sure to set the standard for the industry.

This year IBC has aligned its conference with the exhibition which is packed with topical sessions on monetisation, content distribution, audiences and advertising, craft and production as well as business strategy from up to 300 leading speakers.

This IBC365 webinar explores the top themes set to become the buzzwords for IBC2019 - from better user experiences, workflow efficiency and monitoring, cloud and its applications, the direct-to-consumer offerings as well as changes to the landscape.

Whether this is your first or 20th IBC Show, High Green Media managing consultant Rob Ambrose joins industry experts to discuss the trends and debunk the myths, share their secrets and offer the best hacks for making the most of your time in Amsterdam.

IBC365 editor and IBC Daily editor George Bevir returns to Amsterdam for his ninth show and third working for IBC as editor for IBC365 and the IBC Daily. He previously covered the show as a journalist and explains his top tip is to try something new.

This year IBC has an array of new feature areas including the Esports Showcase on Tuesday 17 September where there will be panels and discussion for opportunities and afternoon a tournament between two professional teams.

He adds: “Try something new this year, there are lots of returning delegates and its easy to stick to a routine but it’s important to make sure you are aware of what is new, go to different halls and feature areas.”

Bevir notes the importance of a sense of direction: “Download the app for the map function to navigate the halls and get from meeting to meeting.”

Lastly, he suggests a battery pack to keep your phone charged and to check out the IBC Daily for a round up news, exhibitors’ announcements and conference wrap ups.

Connect director of sales and product strategy Mathieu Yerle recommends enjoying the local cuisine and enjoy Amsterdam beyond the halls of the RAI.

Nutanix Xi Frame senior technologist Ruben Spruijt is based in the Netherlands and warns: “Hiring a bike is great fun but also dangerous,” he adds, “don’t drink and bike.”

Spruijt’s top tip is to try and carry a supply of Dutch favourites Stroopwaffles. He laughed that they can be used as currency.

Pixel Power executive vice president international sales and marketing Ciaran Doran

As a self-confessed IBC veteran, he says: “Come to hall 7 as its the happening hall. For a B2B trade show there are a lot more creative companies and more vibrant feel.”

Doran also suggests hiring a bike in Amsterdam because it is fun, and you can see the local cultural in a different route from a taxi.”

Senior independent consultant and speaking at IBC2019 Mary Ann Halford adds the must be place for networking is the RAI beach. “After the end of a long day it is a welcomed relief.”

Halford echoes Bevir to downloads the app, she says: “It is critical to help you get around.”