Although I have attempted to be evenhanded, my biases may show. The Executive board certainly does not share my viewpoint. Swiss francs over a period of five years. Congresses enable computer specialists to learn the latest developments in their fields. Congress proceedings contribute to the body of scientific literature in our field.
Congresses provide an opportunity for specialists to present their work to their peers.
Nine percent of the authors of the papers accepted for presentation at the 1998 Congress did not attend and deliver them. Congresses allow delegates to perform networking, meet friends, renew acquaintances, and reestablish contacts every two years. They give delegates a chance to enjoy sight-seeing in picturesque places. The total expense may not be worth the benefits gained. Our discipline has expanded so greatly over the past 40 years that most specialists want to present their work at conferences attended by peers in their specialities.