johngraff

As I mentioned in earlier post there are many variables. When I was bringing up the costs related to sales force, my main point was the opportunity cost related to busy vs slow selling months. But even this one variable alone would not justify the decision. We've also looked at holding it elsewhere, but one of the issues with that is the involvement of NI R&D and other staff (we'd have to now fly some fraction of them to new location). It is true that NIWeek having been in August for over 10 years, is something that we also take into account. There are many variable, many issues, and many opinions. The main thing I wanted to get across to everyone is that we do discuss it internally trying to come up with a conference that best meets the needs of all of our customers, partners, employees and others.

Everyone at NI will support you on that! We bring the air conditioning issue up with them all of the time, and you can see how much luck we've had. :headbang: One of these days we're going to have to break in and implement a LV control system. One other quick note, we should have greatly improved wireless access this year. Austin just hosted the World Congress on IT, and the convention center completely revamped their networking and wireless equipment. Keep your fingers crossed!

Just wanted to go ahead and provide a few comments on the NI perspective on the timing of NIWeek. First of all, we have seriously discussed and debated the timing of NIWeek. It's even been a topic even at our weekly management meeting. Secondly, there's absolutely no time of the year that works for everyone (statement of the obvious). One of the most significant issues is actually scheduling the Austin Convention Center, which is pretty much booked up. While selected weeks may open up at various times, to get a consistent slot on a annual basis is nearly impossible (convention centers are locked up years in advance). I'll also add in that there's no truth to the statement that the convention center rates are cheaper in August. There's many issues related to NIWeek timing (including employee vacation and Austin school schedules), but one I wanted to share is related to our business cycle. One of the biggest costs for NI is bringing our global sales force to Austin, not just in direct travel costs, but also in opportunity cost of not being out in their territories selling. August, for many of the reasons discussed above, is obviously a slower month for most businesses. Those of you that track our historical revenue patterns also will know that the 4th quarter is our biggest quarter of the year. A nice aspect of NIWeek in August is that we can bring the sales force to Austin, get them trained and motivated to go out and ensure a strong Q4. (We hope we're doing the same for our customers, partners, editors and investors that also attend in growing numbers every year). I know my comments above don't make everyone happy, and some of you may disagree with various points (and as I mentioned at the start, the topic is debated internally at NI). I appreciate you sharing you feedback. Look forward to seeing many of you this August!