For many people it can amount to information overload. If you fail to plan accordingly, you run the risk of having no impact or adding to the mayhem. Either way you'll probably leave the event with little or nothing to show for your efforts. Before you can capture a single lead, you have to select the show that attracts your target audience. Begin by identifying the people you want to reach, then determine which shows they attend.
Trade shows keep statistics on their attendees, so ask show management for an attendee profile.
Ask for the names and phone numbers of past attendees, then call a handful of them and gauge their feelings on the show. If they are not attending again, learn why and find out where they are going instead. Also, contact industry associations and skim through trade publications. Both can provide valuable information that can make your decision easier. Finally, don't bite off more than you can chew.