I noticed a trend in some recent entries. I have been talking about various Sourcing related conferences. (See the list at the end of this entry.)
It got me thinking about how many buyers actually attend these conferences. I wonder how it is at most places because at the companies in which I have worked, Buyers always said they were too busy to attend and/or that their companies would not pay the travel or attendance fees.
That is such a shame because conferences offer ways to obtain updated knowledge and skills and insight into what other Sourcing Departments are doing as well as networking, morale boosting, and general discussion with colleagues who understand the challenges of the job. Depending on the goal of the conference, Buyers can also meet potential vendors and gather the latest industry information about the commodities they manage.
I'd like to get some comments from readers about conferences they attended and if they thought they were valuable. Readers, don't be shy! Also, please let us know of other upcoming conferences as well.
Upcoming Sourcing Conferences:
(Yes, the first two are both in the same city on the same days.)
The Motivation Show (September 26-28 in Chicago)
The 2nd Annual Warranty & Returns Management Summit (September 26-28 in Chicago)
The CPO's Summit (November 16-17 in Boston)
Hmmm. Not sure if I'd count the first one as a "sourcing" conference, but I agree that conferences are valuable - I'll be at two myself over the next two months - and I'm just a lowly consultant at the moment!
For a longer list over the next year, check out the Sourcing Innovation Conference List. Please feel free to e-mail the site administrator with any events that were missed and they will be included!
Posted by: Michael Lamoureux | September 21, 2006 8:12 AM | Permalink to Comment