Well the 2012 annual convention of the CPMA, held in Vancouver, went off without too many glitches, at least from this observer’s (a supplier/exhibitor/sponsor) perspective.
Overall there was an increase in suppliers, very good attendance, and it seemed to me some better content and better information from the scheduled speakers. This was the best improvement I have seen in years, not having a local PMP come address the crowd as an expert.
The venue at the Fairmont Waterfront was great as usual, and everything done first class…kinda.
It seems a bit perplexing though that they (CPMA/NPMA) had increased their number of exhibitors from 20 to 30, raised the sponsorship dollars by 2 or 3 times, but didn’t manage to take care the attendees needs.
Breakfast during registration was a stale bagel, (tasty after toasting for 20 minutes). Lunch was served in a box,which they ran out of both Friday and Saturday. Not a big deal to me (I need to lose 10 pounds), but for the attendees???
Just cheap in my opinion.
When I look at sponsorship of the banquet going up 250%, and about the same increase for breaks etc, you have to wonder where the money goes???
Hopefully north of the border.
I will say having the meeting in BC is great since they require continuing education units for re-certification and this draws a crowd.
Wake up Ontario.
’til next time…