International Software Conferences
The Software Industry Conference is a three day event held annually in July. The Software Industry Conference culminates with the Shareware Industry Awards ceremony. There are also dozens of informative, educational breakout sessions covering a wide variety of topics. And if that's not enough there's three nights jam packed with plenty of time to mingle with other attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors including an Exhibit Night featuring the best software development products and services.

Benefits of Attending a Software Conference
There are a number of benefits that can result from attending a software conference. While many MicroISVs may question the ROI (Return On Investment) of attending such an event, other developers find attending a software conference to be priceless. Why should you consider attending a software-specific event?

Personal Connections
While many software developers meet online, and have online friendship or business relationships, there is nothing that can replace the personal connection that occurs when developers meet in person. A personal connection, resulting from face-to-face contact, is often able to push the relationship to the next level. Logical or not, when individuals meet in person, those meetings often generate a higher level of trust that is uncommon in strictly-online relationships.

Network Opportunities
Software conferences provide a great opportunity for MicroISVs to meet other software developers. The contacts that result from conference networking opportunities often result in partnerships or business exchanges.

Meet Others With Similar Issues
eing a MicroISV can be an isolating experience. Software conferences are the perfect venue to meet other developers, and discover other developers who may be struggling with similar issues. Or better yet, you may meet other authors who have already found solutions to problems that you are currently struggling with, and as a result you can benefit from their past experiences and knowledge.

Learn About Opportunities
Software developers have a number of opportunities available to them. Software conferences are often sponsored and attended by companies that offer a variety of distribution channels and marketing opportunities. MicroISVs attending conferences will often find new distribution channels, and will discover new business opportunities that they were previously unaware of.

Discuss Relevant Issues
Attendees of software conferences will naturally discuss issues that specifically relate to being a MicroISV. Software conferences are a great venue for developers to unite and face industry issues and challenges.

Increased Profile
Like any trade show, software conferences can provide attendees an opportunity to gain exposure for their products and services, as well as for themselves. Whether you sell development tools or proprietary applications, software conferences will help increase your exposure.