In an effort to merge technological advancements in the local business market, the Ark-La-Tex chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association and other technology-based companies will host the Smart Cities Initiative Mobile Enablement Symposium 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 27 at Bossier Parish Community College.

“A business leader should be interested to attract customers in today’s day and age,” Joey Arora, program manager for the AFCEA, said. “More and more internet traffic is coming from mobile platforms, if a business isn’t prepared then they will be losing customers.”

Arora said the symposium is dedicated to helping businesses understand how mobile technology can help their businesses.

The symposium’s keynote speaker, Keith Hanson of Twin Engine Labs, will discuss the future of mobile and how to become engaged. Three breakout sessions will also feature topics ranging from building a mobile ecosystem (incorporating your individual or business devices into one platform for efficiency); data integration (for techsavvy participants), and the Smart Cities Initiative (for individuals, businesses and government agencies).

“As economic expansion efforts in the Shreveport-Bossier [City] area really begin to take off, finding and speaking with your clients and customers directly and efficiently is becoming more complicated. Business owners are more dependent on technology than ever before,” Arora said. “Commerce and government must learn to work in concert to take advantage of the new paths to customers via mobile technology, and the new spaces for engagement and discussion that mobile technology creates and supports.”

Also included the symposium are speakers from KTBS, Red Ball Oxygen and BPCC, discussing each business’ mobile platforms.

Arora said the partnership with BPCC made sense.

“There are a lot of resources available [at BPCC] and we wanted to educate the community,” he said.

BPCC Public Relations Director Tracy McGill said they are hoping to provide businesses with valuable knowledge they can use.

“We’re hoping that individuals and/or businesses who might need some extra guidance, education and assistance in becoming ‘mobile-friendly’ will take this opportunity to come and learn from industry leaders,” McGill said. “Opening the dialogue between individuals, industry and governmental agencies to better serve our community is what it’s all about. Additionally, we want our students to see and meet these IT leaders who are locating here in Northwest Louisiana. Educating the community is the key to making our community great.”

Arora also said this is a great opportunity for BPCC students.

“They are the future workforce and they need to know how to reach out to customers, plus they can network with the businesses that are attending the event,” he said.

WANT TO GO?

The event is free; however, it is limited to 300 attendees. For more information or to register, visit the event’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AFCEAArkLaTex or contact Joey Arora at Joseph.Arora@gmail.com.