icomply have been attending IFSEC International for over ten years, and we’re also attending IFSEC South Africa in 2012.  It’s a brilliant way to keep abreast of the very latest industry news and events, check out the competition and catch up with old friends!

We’re taking the icomply newbie to IFSEC this year – Charlotte, who takes care of icomply online.  She asked us for a low-down.  If you’re an IFSEC beginner too, this post will tell you how to get the most out of the largest security event in the UK.  And if you’re an IFSEC veteran, have we got the guide right?  Get in touch and let us know your top tips.

1. Plan your visit

If you’re the spontaneous sort, you’ll be tempted to skip this point… but keep reading!  You might want to wander round IFSEC aimlessly, but in our opinion, you need to have a think about the most important exhibitors and make them your priority.  It’s also worth looking at the conferences available before you visit and put them in your diary.

2. Spend a few nights in Brum

The NEC in Birmingham is massive.  IFSEC is massive.  You won’t be able to see everything you want to in one day, so take a few days out to explore.  There are eight dedicated product areas, including Lone Worker and Fire Solutions new for 2012.  Visit the exhibitors you planned to, but don’t limit yourself.  Coming to IFSEC is all about finding new and innovative products in unexpected places, so take the opportunity to branch out!

3. Download the free IFSEC app

This will solve your planning problems and it’s surprisingly fun to use.  There’s a full list of exhibitors and conferences, with a built-in schedule to customise so you don’t forget any important meetings.  The app has an interactive map (Charlotte informs us she will need a map) and tonnes of other applications.  Download it now so you’re arriving prepared!

4. Visit some conferences

There are more free conferences at IFSEC 2012 than ever before so make the most of this opportunity to learn more about your field.  There are eight different areas that are holding events, from live demonstrations to industry debates.  A must-see conference for icomply is ‘All you need to know about PSIM’, providing views from across the industry on the relatively new concept from across the pond.

5. Get involved… online!

The build-up to IFSEC on the internet has been buzzing, and their website is a fantastic source of information and news.  Watch the ‘IFSEC 2011’ clip if you’re an IFSEC novice – you can’t fail to get excited!  The official media partner, Info4Security, has in-depth articles and videos online too.  If you’re on Twitter, the hash tag #IFSEC is a great way to find out what’s happening and who’s attending.  icomply will be tweeting and live blogging from the event so make sure you follow us @i_comply.

icomply are exhibiting their integrated CCTV software V-TAS Pro in Hall 4, G30.  ‘All you need to know about PSIM’ conference is chaired by Roy Cooper, Professional Security Magazine.  Held 16^th May, 14:00 to 15:00 at the IFSEC International Centre Stage in Hall 5.