What Is Instant Messaging (IM)?
IM is a type of communications service that enables users to exchange messages in real time with other users. Typically, the Instant Messaging system alerts the user whenever somebody on their private list is online. The user can then initiate a chat session with that particular individual. Users can communicate with each other by typing with a PC, wireless device (cell phone, PDA, etc.) or other Internet appliance/device. They can also use a combination of these devices to communicate.

Why Should I Care About Instant Messaging?
Businesses are increasingly utilizing Instant Messaging -- not only for internal communications (employee-to-employee), but also for conversations with people outside the company (company official-to-supplier, customer service rep-to-customer, etc). Enterprises need to make sure they're choosing the right system or systems to communicate with these diverse groups. Other concerns surrounding IM systems include security and compliance with government regulations.

Instant Messaging has gained considerable support from major technology vendors while transcending industry barriers and moving into the mass market. According to a report from market analyst International Data Corp. (IDC), the corporate Instant Messaging (IM) market will grow from 5.5 million users worldwide in 2000 to 180 million in 2004.

What Is Instant Messaging Planet 2002 Conference & Expo?
Instant Messaging Planet 2002 Conference & Expo will provide the business, strategic, technical and market information that your organization needs to evaluate IM technologies, select vendors and deploy solutions. The conference will also provide an educational forum for those who need to learn about IM technology as it takes root in the workplace and the marketplace.

What Are The Goals Of This Conference?

• For the businessperson, the conference will inform them how to select the right IM solution for their company, as well as to hear how other companies and organizations are successfully using IM. Attendees will also learn how they can make money using Instant Messaging to market goods and services to consumers.

• For the technology professional, the conference will highlight the major IM technologies on the market from a deployment viewpoint. Special emphasis will be placed on IM security and deploying IM as an enterprise-level technology.

Why Would I Want To Attend This Conference?

You will gain a comprehensive understanding about Instant Messaging -- its past, its future, its business applications and the technical details of how it works for the enterprise. You will also be able to network with fellow professionals who share your concerns.

What Will Attendees Get Out Of The Conference?

Technologist - will provide you and your team with the technical information you need to deploy Instant Messaging applications.

Business or marketing professional - will provide you with concise, quantifiable market trends and opportunity analysis to help you evaluate IM opportunities.

Manager - will provide you with costs analysis and best practices for vendor selection and implementation strategies.

For information or complete details on exhibiting or any sponsorship opportunity, please contact Nancy Raymond at (203) 662-2844 or at instantmessaging@internet.com.

Registration questions please contact Allison Alessio at registration@internet.com or (203) 662-2857.