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Favorite Part of ABA TECHSHOW

by SimpleLaw on

We just wrapped up day 2 of ABA TECHSHOW 2022. Thinking about the experience so far, it has been very different from what I was expecting. Sure, we know the drill of setting up the booth and trying to chat people up as they walk by. Naturally, we are there to promote our (awesome) case and practice management software. That part stayed the same. But there are some surprises in the experience, and some we will continue to focus on.

Maskless-ish

In Chicago, the mask mandate was repealed just a day or so before TECHSHOW. We had every intention of wearing masks in the booth and proceeded with that plan. We arrived, wearing masks, and took them off to set up the booth as there were more than 6 feet between us and other people. We promptly put them back on to move around the space. 

Quickly, we noticed we were among the very few wearing masks.  

ABA TECHSHOW requires all attendees, presenters, and exhibitors to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test. With that in mind, we decided to take our masks off, too. And have kept them off, most of the time. That was surprising to us. Here in Chicago, the mask mandate has been active for most of the last two years. The thought of removing it for a trade show was certainly not on our radar. But we made the choice and are so happy we did.

Product Themes

You know, in a normal year, we would anticipate some themes about the 'news' from the show. In our experience, there really wasn't a bunch. Sure, some platforms had some new stuff to share, like SimpleLaw. There were plenty of exciting new entrants too, not only from startup alley but across the floor. 

We continue to be impressed by providers in our industry. Leveraging the use of technology to make the process of handling legal issues just keeps evolving. 

The Silver Lining

In a word, people. We met some truly awesome people. Like, really great people. Seeing people in person, having a conversation about the practice of law and technology, sure, but even sharing some new music. Sharing some great jokes. One of our former interns came by for a visit and let me tell you, that was truly awesome. He is not only incredibly talented and smart but continues to work hard to be the best he can be. What's more rewarding than that?  Seeing our ABA TECHSHOW organizers in-person versus Zoom. Making new connections was great, too. A big thanks to everyone who made it a point to stop by the booth to see the awesome magic of Danny Orleans. Thanks to the people who joyfully took part in his magic, too.  For us, the best part of the show is the people. 

If you attended the virtual version of ABA TECHSHOW, we hope it was great too. But let me tell you, there is a difference between being remote versus in-person. And yes, we booked our booth for next year and are already making plans. We hope to see more people back, in-person, at ABA TECHSHOW 2023. Until then, well, we are always available virtually.