Pro tips for Simpleview Summit: what to know about attending an industry-leading conference

The Simpleview crew is counting down the days until we can welcome you to Milwaukee for Simpleview Summit 2024! We have a jam-packed schedule of learning and fun waiting for you in my home state. In case you're wondering … there's still time to secure your spot in the crowd — you can register here.

With so much to see and do in a few short days, our industry-leading conference can be a lot to take in, especially for first-timers. It might feel overwhelming to navigate the event’s packed itinerary. If you are feeling pre-conference jitters, this article is for you.

As Simpleview’s Director of Marketing Operations, I have attended Simpleview Summit in various capacities since 2006, when I attended as a VISIT Milwaukee employee. This year makes eight total Simpleview Summits for me — so here are my pro tips for what you need to know about being an attendee at this renowned event.
 

Lean Into Learning

Simpleview Summit is the premier hotspot for industry insights and thought leadership. With over 50 sessions of training, demos, and panel discussions — the opportunity for hands-on, specific training is unmatched.

The pre-conference workshops are designed for you to dig deeper into the products and services your team uses daily. Enhance your understanding with hands-on product demos led by Simpleview experts.

Don’t forget to register for the workshops beforehand. If you already registered for the conference, you can log in to your account and add a workshop to your existing registration. While you're at it, check out our pre-conference activities, too. Explore the host city of Milwaukee by registering for one of the limited first-come, first-serve spots.

PRO TIP: If you are a sports enthusiast, you won’t want to miss these!

Don’t Miss the Main Stage

Sometimes the keynote or lunch sessions on the agenda seem like a good time to run back to your hotel room, call your kids, or catch up on work. We’ve all been there! However, I strongly recommend catching all the keynote addresses and general sessions on the main stage. We have an impressive, star-studded lineup of speakers this year that you don’t want to miss. Hear from famous comedians, celebrity chefs, travel industry experts, and a special guest — Alex Lasry, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Travel and Tourism for the International Trade Administration. PRO TIP: Make the main stage a priority.
 

It's All Noteworthy

Take some notes, and then take some more. You will leave the conference with project specifics, best practices, and valuable face-to-face time with experts to answer your most pressing questions. Bring this valuable information back to your team by taking diligent notes throughout the conference. And don’t worry about your devices running out of power — there will be ample charging points to keep your laptop or phone juiced up for notetaking. PRO TIP: Visit “The Gathering Place” — Simpleview Summit’s first-ever multipurpose room for attendees. Get plugged in, kick up your feet, and catch up on emails during between-session breaks.

Network with the Best

Come prepared to network — a little goes a long way. Attendees will brainstorm with industry peers in a relaxed, intimate setting. Put yourself out there, introduce yourself to people, and never miss a networking reception. PRO TIP: Keep the conversations going by connecting with those you meet via LinkedIn or messaging them on the Simpleview Summit app — where you can exchange virtual business cards as you make new connections.
 

Brew with the Simpleview Crew

A key part of our conference is taking advantage of in-person meetings with your Simpleview team of experts. Be sure to build in time to your schedule for meeting Simpleview staff face-to-face and visiting the “Ask the Expert” product tradeshow to meet our exhibitors and subject matter experts.

PRO TIP: One of our employees’ favorite parts about Simpleview Summit is dancing the night away with attendees at the closing party. Save some steam to let loose on Wednesday night at the Harley-Davidson Museum.
 

Thinking Ahead = Being in the Moment

Simpleview Summit in summary: a whirlwind. There are countless can’t-miss sessions and activities, so you’ll want to plan ahead so you can be in the moment. To make the most of your time, think about your end goals before you go — what is the most important information you want to take home?

PRO TIP: Look at the agenda, figure out what sessions you and your team want to attend, and add them to your personalized schedule on the app.

Here are some other ways you can plan to make the most out of Simpleview Summit:

• Turn on your app notifications so you don’t miss the real-time updates
• Check the weather forecasts before you arrive and be prepared to dress in layers
• Leave room in your suitcase for bringing home swag
• Get insider tips on the Simpleview Summit blog
• Review the list of walkable dining locations and make a reservation for the open night on Tuesday, April 9
• Follow @simpleviewsummit on Instagram to keep the fun going, and use #simpleviewsummit in your posts