What you need to know when you are in the market for a new custom exhibit.

1). Keep in mind that the exhibit company you choose is very likely overworked. While they will do the best job they can for you, they may not have the time to do in depth research into your needs and business. The more information you can provide, the more you will get back in the way of functional design. It always helps to do a little homework. Take a camera to a trade show and shoot some photos of some custom trade show exhibits that appeal to you.

2). Spend some time determining a budget. You would be surprised how many companies have no clue as to what they intend to or need to spend on a custom exhibit. As important as trade shows are to some marketing departments, they are often viewed as the last thing on the to do list when it comes to budget. You need to establish a way of tracking or quantifying the results you get at trade shows so as to know just how important they are, or are not... to your bottom line. Also, ask some of your non-competing neighbors at a show what they spent on their booth. Then put together a list of things you need in the booth. For instance, plasma screen, work stations, conference areas, towers, large format graphics and so on. Doing this will save time and help your exhibit design team to zero in on your needs.

3. Select your exhibit company. This is easy if you have had a satisfactory relationship with one. Otherwise, you can find some very good custom exhibit houses on the internet. Look through their sites to get a feeling for the companies, their clients and testimonials. Call them with questions. Check with many different businesses. However, you should narrow your list to 1, 2 or 3 companies when it comes time to get serious and begin the design process. This will end up saving you a lot of time since you will be better able to focus on the presentations you receive and to request revisions if you have narrowed the list. Also, an experienced exhibit house will likely ask you as to how many competitors they have in the process. If they know that the list is three or less, they will be willing to devote more time to you than if it looks as though the job up for grabs among five companies. This is one case where less is more.

Do these three things and you will be on your way to a beautiful, functional custom exhibit.