ISC West: Key Takeaways and Industry Insights

The ISC West Expo is the largest security expo, drawing industry professionals from around the globe. In a recent episode of Unlocked, Tony, Chad, and Lars shared their experiences and takeaways from attending this major event.   

What is ISC West?

ISC West is described as the Consumer Electronics Show for the security industry, showcasing new technology and products from major manufacturers. The expo includes booths, meeting rooms, events, and classes, attracting over 36,000 visitors.    Link to ISC West

Initial Observations

Upon arriving at ISC West, the hosts noted the large scale of the event and the opportunity to connect with industry peers. They also observed the presence of high-level executives and the ongoing discussions about economic factors like tariffs.   

AI in the Security Industry

A significant trend at the expo was the prevalence of companies using "AI" as a buzzword in their marketing. The hosts expressed skepticism about the actual implementation and value of AI in many of these cases.   

Show Structure and Efficiency

The hosts were surprised by the continued reliance on traditional methods like printed badges and human verification for entry, despite the presence of cutting-edge security technology. They also noted that the overall structure of the show had remained largely unchanged over the past several years.   

Industry Challenges

The hosts discussed challenges within the security industry, including unclear messaging and an oversaturation of companies offering similar products. They emphasized the importance of clear communication and avoiding the trap of trying to be everything to everyone.   

Value of Attending Industry Events

Despite some criticisms, the hosts acknowledged the value of attending events like ISC West for networking, relationship building, and gaining insights from other industry leaders.   

Supplier Relationships and Economic Insights

The hosts highlighted the importance of supplier relationships and shared a story about a conversation with a supplier that provided valuable perspective on business planning and economic trends.   

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