UPFRONT
Aquatech 2010:
Your new ‘face time’
The once novel gifts of faxing, e-mail and mobile communication have led us to being constantly linked in, to our space or Facebook in order to read up- to-the-minute messages and Tweets. As a society, we have become accustomed to uninterrupted news coverage and a regular addiction to social networking. Certainly, over the past 15 years of the quick and easy information evolution, a lot of good has surfaced. Today, businesses can simply go on the web to learn more, review comments and order products that they need to run their operation successfully. And, industry media outlets, such as Water Technology, are able to stay in tune with and answer reader concerns via bulletin boards, blogs and webinars. In fact, Water Technology’s digital version, which is available free of charge, is helping us “walk the walk” in our environmental efforts. Similarly, companies are offering more services, such as rebates and product literature, on the web to reduce dependence on paper. Information technology also helps business people attend meetings and conferences from remote locations, reducing downtime, transportation needs and expenses. These are but a few examples of how businesses can thrive and realistically service a demanding customer base. However, as a result of information being a click away, we are slowly losing an important aspect of relationship building: The personal experience. So often, especially when a prior relationship did not exist, customer serv- ice — and perceived respect — is at risk. Furthermore, the uninterested and the “what is in it for me” people can simply hide behind e-mail or online net- working forums when more than a one sentence (often misspelled) explana- tion is needed. However, in the rare instances that face-to-face meetings occur, we should value and make the most of it. Bringing me to WQA’s Aquatech 2010, which will be held this year in Orlando, Florida. If you’ve made the investment and you’re attending the show then chances are you already know what is in it for you. At least for three days, you’ll have those now rare face-to-face moments, when a handshake serves us better than a mouse and a keyboard. Starting on page 8, WQA takes the opportunity to reinforce this message. Make the most of your show experience this year and be sure to stop by Water Technology’s booth (416) to share your thoughts about the industry and your critical issues. WT
By Rich DiPaolo
Editorial Director
Vice President of Business Publishing 205-789-0968
Tracy Aston-Martin
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Corporate
Water Technology Advisory Board
David Chew, Kinetico, Inc., Newbury, OH; Stephen Grandeau,
CWS-V, AQUASCIENCE of New York, Clifton Park, NY; Cang Li,
Ph.D., Selecto Scientific, Inc., Su wanee, GA; Gary Lindsey, CWS-VI, CI, Waterplus of Pinellas, Inc., Seminole, FL; Norm Marowitz,
Atlas Watersystems, Inc., Waltham, MA; Steven Richards,
CWS-VI, CI, CSR, CCO, The Aqua Source Group, Inc., Honeoye, NY;
Gary Schreiber, CWS-VI, The Purolite Co., Bala Cynwyd, PA.
205-408-3718