Mobile apps are quickly becoming a mandatory staple of meetings and conventions of all sorts. The “AIHce 2013 Mobile App” allows attendees to create and manage their schedule, view detailed session and exhibitor listings, and stay informed about the latest meeting happenings. All this from the convenience of a mobile device.

This is part of a broader trend in the business and consumer worlds we’re seeing today: customization, with the emphasis on personal interests. Apps allow consumers to compile their own “newsstands” of magazines and newspapers of interest to them. Television programming, with DVRs and Internet interventions, allow you to set up your own schedule of favorite shows. In the not too distant future, computer devices will allow sports fans to view games choosing from among all the different camera angles to watch games the way they want to.

For the AIHce, attendees can download the free app on their iPhone, iPad, Android or Blackberry. Once downloaded, they complete and publish the “My Profile” section to connect and network with other attendees.