CIPHEX2002.com combines the appeal and convenience of virtual shopping with the face-to-face selling, demonstrations and networking available at the CIPHEX 2002 show.

Once the goals for the CIPHEX web site were clearly established, we worked closely with show management in preparing a strategy to meet their objectives.

As of January 2002, the full online version of CIPHEX 2002 was launched and will remain open for a full year. The actual show takes place April 18 & 19, 2002 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Each CIPHEX exhibitor will be provided a free web page on CIPHEX online. Exhibitors wishing to upgrade their online presence can do so by paying a small additional fee. The web pages are linked to the show floor plan, so that visitors can "click" on any exhibitor's booth and view their web page.

Since CIPHEX features a variety of product categories, visitors can view and print custom floor plans of CIPHEX, highlighting those exhibitors that will be displaying the products that interest them. Along with the tools provided to exhibitors and visitors, CIPHEX Show Management receives a full suite of management tools that puts them in control of their online show.

Through the new dynamic web site, CIPHEX will be providing substantial added value to exhibitors, since their online exhibit (the web page), and opportunity to promote their products and gather sales leads, will be extended from the traditional two days of the actual event for a period of 12 months AND the show will be open on a 24 hour basis. It also gives exhibitors in a Western Canadian regional tradeshow access to a global audience.

CIPHEX Show Management also plans to use the web site to reinforce other audience development programs, to increase attendance at the trade show and conference.

As the first trade show, worldwide, to employ the Dynamic Expos mapping features, the CIPHEX show, and the show producer, CIPH, is positioning itself as an industry leader. The enhanced site is expected to lead to new public relations/media opportunities.

The mapping features of the virtual show will help visitors to locate specific exhibitors and product types, allowing them to pre-plan their visit to the show. Custom maps displaying exhibitors in various product categories can be viewed online and printed as necessary. According to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR), more than 75% of show visitors have a specific agenda when attending an event.

Through sales of banner advertising and upgraded web pages, show management expects to fully cover the cost of the web site. The web site has been converted from an expense item to a revenue generator.