This classic line of attendance-taking, from the movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off, seems somewhat befitting of this year's On Demand show. I thought perhaps it just seemed as if attendance was light due to the colossally ginormous Boston Convention Center (that might seem like hyperbole, but is there anyone who didn't get lost or anyone wearing heels who wasn't wondering why Nike and Manolo can't joint venture?). But, the proof is in the pudding, literally. At prime lunch hour, the show floor food courts were nowhere near capacity. No crowds, no lines, no table stalkers. Empty tables beckoned, and even at the internet café, computer stations stood ready and waiting.

So, armed with that very scientific data, I think attendance actually was lighter this year. Now some may say, "after all, it's a Drupa year", but let's face it – most of the typical On Demand attendees will not be jetting over to Düsseldorf this spring. Maybe it was location and the frightening New England weather that kept visitors away.

Nonetheless, I have to say, it was a great show! Most booths were abuzz with activity, while a few (big name) others were eerily quiet and unpopulated. I think those who did attend the show were very, very pleased and found it to be worthwhile and productive. Perhaps, those who were in attendance were those who really wanted to be there — to experience the products, for the networking opportunities, and for the educational value; as opposed to the ubiquitous pen collectors, mint stockpilers, and other freebie junkies.

Hopefully, next year's attendance will rise – with the show heading back to Philly and scheduled for late March-early April. I do hope so. With trade shows and their turnouts seemingly on the decline, and the increase in popularity of webinars and virtual trade shows, if expos such as On Demand were to cease within this (the printing) industry, would that be the demise of the hardcopy of hardcopy?

Catherine Fiasconaro
Vice President, Operations
Director, SpencerLab Digital Color Laboratory