We just returned from what is arguably the most successful IHRSA show in the history of our company. There was a good mix of both potential customers and existing customers. Our new booth looked great and was located in prime real estate, giving us a constant flow of traffic all three days.

Speaking of booth’s, I often wonder what customers (existing and potential) think when they visit a company that has a big, modern booth versus one that has a small, boring booth. It seems that the adage – bigger is better – doesn’t always apply when people are evaluating software companies. However, if you were to apply the same theory to, let’s say, equipment manufactures, I guarantee you people would think twice about buying fitness equipment from a vendor with a small little booth in the back near the loading dock and toilets. One of the things that stood out at the convention was the fact that so many of our competitors are behind us in terms of technology.  While this may not be important to everyone, there seems to be a growing trend in this industry in the importance that is placed on having state-of-the-art technology to run your business. More health and fitness companies are developing IT positions than ever before and I consider that a positive for the industry.

Next up in April is NIRSA and Club Industry East.