Nielsen//NetRatings reports that the number of searches grew at an astounding pace in 2005, with Google seeing 75% more searches, Yahoo! 53% more and MSN up 20%. Judging by the number of people at SES NYC last week, companies of all sizes and decriptions are realizing they need to know how to optimize their websites and make the most of those searches. It was the largest attendance ever. The show was a sensory overload. Just people watching in the halls was an experience. It's impossible to go to all the sessions, but that's why people come to more than one SES in a year. Or come in a team and divide and conquer. The guys from WebProNews said their New York experience left them with a less than rosy view of the city. My cab ride from La Guardia was indeed a life threatening experience, but my choice of 'historic' hotel is the Broadway Inn on W 46th street. And it is always a joy and a delight to be there. You do need to plan the show before you come. Decide which sessions you want to attend and when you will get time to network. Make appointments with people you'd like to meet and allow plenty of time in the exhibit hall - there's a wealth of info to be gained from talking to the exhibitors. My two days at Search Engine Strategies New York was well worth the time, travel and the snow. (I am used to California winters - brrrr!) See you at the next one. | 
