The Value of RSA, Black Hat, and Mega Cyber Tradeshows
Oct 12, 2023
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Guest Lee Parri joins the hosts to discuss the value of RSA, Black Hat, and Mega Cyber Tradeshows. They explore the economic value for CISOs attending trade shows like RSA and the industry gravity these events have. They also debate the significance and benefits of major cybersecurity corporations sponsoring and having a presence at security conferences. Additionally, they discuss the location of the RSA conference, the value of attending RSA, and the available cybersecurity slots and stickers at conferences.
Large security conferences provide a sense of community and networking opportunities for practitioners in the infosec space.
The economic value of large security conferences like RSA is debated, with the focus shifting towards networking and side events rather than vendor booths.
Deep dives
The Value of Community in Large Security Events
Large security conferences provide a sense of community and a platform for practitioners to exchange ideas and engage with one another. These events are valuable for networking and finding support in the challenging infosec space.
Debating the Economic Value of Huge Security Conferences
There is a recurring discussion around the economic value of large security conferences like RSA. The cost of flights and hotel rooms can be extraordinary, making it difficult for CISOs and vendors to attend. The value of getting a booth on the trade show floor is questioned, with some suggesting that the real value lies in the networking and side events outside the conference.
The Importance of Presence and Networking
While the expo floors of conferences like RSA are packed with sponsors, the real value lies in the surrounding events and networking opportunities. Many practitioners and CISOs attend conferences to meet and connect with others in the industry, rather than focusing solely on visiting vendor booths. Speakers at conferences play a significant role, with their sessions providing fresh ideas and perspectives to attendees. The value of conferences extends beyond the traditional vendor bazaar.
All links and images for this episode can be found on CISO Series.
Are trade shows like RSA getting so big that there's not enough economic value for a CISO to attend? Or do these events have enough industry gravity to justify the spend?