Conference Update: Serious Risk of Congestion
The steadfast enthusiasm for the London conference is very gratifying for all those involved in its preparation. Every possible indicator has shown an unprecedented interest for this year's edition of ICA's annual conference. The latest and most crucial of all indicators is the number of registered participants, i.e. the number of people who will, ultimately, show up at the conference. When the "early bird" reduced registration fee ended, the number of registered participants far surpassed any previous record.
Such unprecedented numbers are overwhelming, but are now also a matter of concern. Though the Hilton London Metropole chosen for our conference is the largest conference hotel in London (and is the very best and largest conference hotel venue we could have), the capacity of the meeting rooms is limited, and even very limited in some of the rooms. As a result, given the number of participants, it seems inevitable that some sessions will attract more delegates than can fit in the room. These difficulties might also occur during business meetings and social events, including receptions.
What can participants do in the face of this risk of congestion? First and foremost, everyone should be aware of the situation and the inconvenience that it might cause. Consistent with the good spirit of our conference participants, we anticipate that any difficulty will be faced with the patience and serenity we have known from ICA members at past conferences. Participants are also encouraged to arrive early to all sessions that are important to them. ICA will also encourage presenters more than ever to share their papers and any supporting material (slides, etc.) and to make themselves available to discuss their work. Delegates are also encouraged more than ever to spend time engaging with colleagues both onsite and offsite.
Our frequent warnings about congestion should of course not be a cause of anxiety or disappointment. In fact, we are more confident than ever that this year's conference will be amazing at all levels: a record number of sessions and presentations, a huge line-up of preconferences and postconferences, and very dense and inspiring plenaries and miniplenaries. We just want everyone to be prepared so as to make the best of their London experience!