ABA TECHSHOW 2012
Last week, I attended the American Bar Association’s TECHSHOW, as I have for the past several years. And, as has been the case for the past several years, the internet connection in the exhibit hall and meeting rooms left a lot to be desired. Not only was the wi-fi connection “challenged,” but even my brand-new “new” iPad couldn’t establish a 4G connection for most of the conference.
Even when I was able to establish a connection, it would often cut out unexpectedly in the middle of a session. Eventually, I gave up and just started taking notes. I missed live-tweeting and blogging during the conference. I apologize to those readers who have been looking forward to my TECHSHOW comments, which I will be posting here in a series of blog posts.
Other than the internet issue, it was, as usual, an amazing conference with something for everyone (although I think it would be great if the TECHSHOW folks would add some more advanced sessions to the vast array of educational offerings, especially for TECHSHOW regulars).
One thing I did thoroughly enjoy was doing the “Meet the Author” session for my new book, co-authored with Dennis Kennedy and published by the ABA Law Practice Management section, LinkedIn in One Hour for Lawyers. Not only was it great fun to speak to attendees about the book (and LinkedIn in general), but it was a real thrill to see people walking around with the book. I am just sorry my co-author couldn’t attend TECHSHOW with me this year.
Another interesting addition to TECHSHOW was the TECHSHOW App which, once downloaded, not only let you see the TECHSHOW schedule and speakers, but also view or download the presentation materials, bookmark your favorite sessions, and keep notes – all right in the app itself. By all accounts, the TECHSHOW App was a big hit, and I’m sure it will be back next year!
Before I get to my more substantive impressions of TECHSHOW, here’s a taste of what went on from some other attendees and presenters:
- The ABA Journal’s report on Jim Calloway’s ABA TECHSHOW plenary:The Future of Law: Dark Clouds or Silver Linings?
- Another perspective on the plenary from Slaw.ca
- A run-down of the 60 (iPhone and iPad) apps in 60 minutes session
- Dave Bilinsky’s ABA TECHSHOW 2012 Take-Aways and his perspective on the future of law practice
- Lawyerist Insider ABA TECHSHOW Trip Report
More info and perspectives next week. In the interim, enjoy the Holiday!