The WorldWide Technology Watch (WWTW) competition forms part of EIBTM’s increasing focus on new technology solutions for the meetings industry and will once again be taking place this year. The competition is dedicated to discovering the latest technological innovations that will have a positive impact on meetings, events, incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions. The closing date for entries is Friday 5th September 2008 and the winner receives a free stand at the MPI Technology Village @ EIBTM 2008 and the opportunity to present their product during EIBTM 2008 in Barcelona.

Mandy Torrens, EIBTM’s Event Director says, “After the great success of last year’s WWTW competition and the record number of entries we received, EIBTM is looking forward to seeing the calibre of this year’s entrants. The WWTW competition is an important part of EIBTM as it nurtures innovative technology products which will enhance the future of the industry.”

This is a great chance for these companies to receive recognition and gain increased exposure for their product.

The 2008 Judging Panel includes:

• Corbin Ball, CMP, Corbin Ball Associates, WA, USA – CHAIRMAN
• Martin Sirk, CEO, ICCA- Amsterdam
• Bruce M. MacMillan, President/CEO, Meeting Professionals International
• Paul Hussey, Managing Director, Olive 360
• Charles Robinson, previously ITMA Executive Director

Corbin Ball, CMP, Corbin Ball Associates says, “Meetings technology is progressing at a rapid rate and is an increasingly important tool for the meeting planner. Of course products such as RFID, innovative registration and management software are very important but so are the new technologies that will start to impact on the meetings industry including Web 2.0 technologies, social software, multi-user virtual environment and more. The WWTW judges anticipate a wide range of products reflecting these latest innovations to enter the EIBTM WorldWide Technology Watch”.

The 2007 WWTW competition attracted a record number of entries from over 40 different international companies. The 2007 WorldWide Technology Watch (WWTW) winner was Shockfish SA with the new SPOTME. The judging committee felt that this product scored highly in all three judging criteria: innovation, completeness of concept, and value to users at events. The winners of previous years’ competitions have found positive publicity and commercial backing through presenting their products to the industry at EIBTM. The WWTW competition is the right platform from which to gain extra credibility within the industry.

Samuel J. Smith, Marketing Manager from Spotme, 2007 WorldWide Technology Watch winner says, “A special thanks to the EIBTM team! We listened to your advice, followed your recommendations and had a great show. 2008 is going to be the best year yet for Spotme!  EIBTM helped us get off to a great start!”