Whether this is your first time at an INFORMS Annual Meeting or you just need a refresher before touching down in Seattle, consider this your one-stop-shop for what to expect when you arrive for the 2024 INFORMS Annual Meeting (and even before you get on the plane)! Learn more:
STAYING CONNECTED
Annual Meeting App
The conference schedule, presentation and exhibit details, and maps can be found in the mobile app. To download, visit the Apple Store or Google Play Store and search for “Engagefully.” Once installed, open the app and search for “INFORMS.” Click the menu button to access the main menu of the app. Take some time to explore the event and update your profile image and information.
When viewing the conference schedule, you can browse through presentations and events or search for specific speakers/keywords. As you find events and presentations that interest you, click on the checked calendar icon to add to your schedule. The mobile app will be your go-to source for the most up-to-date #INFORMS2024 schedule information, as well as help you stay connected to INFORMS all year long. Coming soon: Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to download and navigate the app, including searching for speakers/titles, creating your meeting schedule, and connecting with other attendees.
Within the app, you also have the ability to scan other attendees’ in-app QR codes (which will also be printed on attendee badges) to share your “digital business card” with other attendees and exhibitors. Click on the Scan QR Code icon to open the scanner and view your own QR code. Then scan the QR code on the screen of the person you want to connect with!
If you have previously downloaded the INFORMS app, all you need to do is search for the 2024 INFORMS Annual Meeting under the events tab. We highly recommend downloading and familiarizing yourself with the mobile app before traveling to Seattle.
eNews Daily
This official record of the INFORMS Annual Meeting is delivered each morning to your inbox and contains links to helpful resources as well as special coverage in OR/MS Today, provided by the members of the of the OR/MS Tomorrow editorial team. These daily updates will recap the previous day’s activities and preview upcoming events. Coming soon: Meet the 2024 eNews Daily team!
Wi-Fi Information
INFORMS will provide free Wi-Fi throughout the Seattle Convention Center. Wi-Fi is optimized for web browsing and email, but not streaming. Sponsored by Hexaly.
The Wi-Fi and login information will be printed on the back of your attendee badge, which you will need to attend all sessions and other events. Please note: Wi-Fi will not be available in the Hyatt Regency Seattle meeting rooms.
Network: 2024informs | Password: hexaly201
INFORMS Social Media
Make sure to tag INFORMS using #INFORMS2024 when you post about the meeting on social media! We love to see our attendee’s meeting experience.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Navigating the Meeting Venue
The 2024 INFORMS Annual Meeting will take place at the Summit Building in the Seattle Convention Center, with the Hyatt Regency Seattle serving as the headquarters hotel. Maps for the each of the meeting venues are available in the Meeting App. Find out more about what is available at the Convention Center.
BYOWB (as in … Bring Your Own Water Bottle!)
The LEED Platinum-certified Summit building in the Seattle Convention Center has 20 water bottle filling stations throughout. Stay hydrated at this year’s Annual Meeting AND help us support the Seattle Convention Center’s commitment to a greener future!
Wellness Rooms
The Seattle Convention Center, Summit Building offers private Wellness Rooms on Levels 3 and 4.
Childcare Services
There are a number of options for childcare in Seattle, which provide a variety of services.
Nanny for U
info@anannyforu.com
206-525-1510
On Call Nanny
info@oncallnanny.com
877-51-NANNY
Annie’s Nannies, Inc.
206-784-8462 (by appointment only)
Jovie of Seattle
seattlewa@jovie.com
206-659-4156
Seattle Nanny’s Networks Inc.
info@seattlenanny.com
425-803-9511
Accessibility
The Seattle Convention Center Summit building is fully accessible. See their Accessibility Guide for information on parking, building navigation, restrooms, wheelchair rental and more here.
All-gender restrooms are located in the Seattle Convention Center, Summit Building, on Levels 2-5.
Meeting Code of Conduct
Every attendee has agreed to adhere to the INFORMS Code of Conduct during INFORMS activities, requiring that all meeting participants conduct themselves in a professional manner that is welcoming to all participants and free from any form of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or retaliation. Participants agree to treat each other with respect and consideration to create and ensure a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment. Read more about the INFORMS Code of Conduct.
Reporting Hotline
We are committed to a culture of openness, trust, safety, diversity, and inclusion. That is why we have both a Code of Conduct and an Ethics Code. These codes are part of our efforts to advance professional and ethical conduct and a safe environment for all involved in INFORMS activities.
We have engaged Lighthouse Services to provide an anonymous code of conduct and ethics hotline that will ensure anyone wishing to submit a report anonymously or otherwise can do so.
Please note that any information you provide to the hotline may be the basis of an investigation. Your anonymity will be protected to the extent possible by law, by Lighthouse, and by INFORMS. Investigations, when required, will be conducted by a third-party company, Operations Inc.
The Lighthouse Services toll-free number and other methods of reporting are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: www.lighthouse-services.com/informs
Toll-free telephone:
- English-speaking USA and Canada: 855-650-0005
- Spanish-speaking USA and Canada: 800-216-1288
- Spanish-speaking Mexico: 01-800-681-5340
- French-speaking Canada: 855-725-0002
Email: reports@lighthouse-services.com (must name INFORMS in the report)
Fax: 215-689-3885 (must include INFORMS name with report)
SOCIAL EVENTS AND NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
There is never a dull moment at #INFORMS2024! Check the mobile app for more details regarding pre-meeting workshops and activities, technology showcases, Community business meetings, INFORMS publications events, university-sponsored receptions, award sessions, and more.
INFORMS Community Business Meetings & Receptions
Sunday, October 20 – Monday, October 21
Whether you’re driven by operations research, analytics, or another related field, there’s a dedicated community waiting for you. With 13 societies, 22 sections, 7 forums, and a host of geographic and student chapters, INFORMS offers an array of resources and networking avenues tailored to your interests and career aspirations. INFORMS Community business meetings, receptions, and special events offer prime networking opportunities. The schedule varies for each event, so check the mobile app for a full schedule with dates, times, and locations.
INFORMS New Member Connections Breakfast (By Invitation Only)
Sunday, October 20 | 7-8am
REGENCY – Regency Ballroom, 7th Floor
Kick off your first INFORMS conference experience at the New Member Connections Breakfast! Enjoy a warm welcome, a hot meal, coffee or tea, and conversation with your fellow new members. INFORMS Board members and volunteers will share their tips for successfully navigating INFORMS membership and the Annual Meeting. (By invitation only.)
INFORMS International Connections Meet & Greet
Sunday, October 20 | 3:30–4pm
REGENCY – Room 502, 5th Floor
Join a vibrant assembly of international attendees at this exclusive event. It’s a prime opportunity to network with fellow researchers and practitioners from around the world. Expand your professional circle and share diverse perspectives. We’re excited you’re here!
Welcome Reception with Exhibitors
Sunday, October 20 | 6:15–8pm
SUMMIT – Flex C
All meeting attendees are invited to join us to meet exhibitors and network with colleagues. Complimentary light refreshments, including soft drinks and bottled water, will be provided. A cash bar option will also be available.
INFORMS Awards Ceremony & Dessert Reception
Sunday, October 20 | 7:45–9pm
REGENCY – Regency Ballroom, 7th Floor
The INFORMS Board of Directors invites you to honor and celebrate the achievements of your colleagues at the annual Awards Ceremony. Dessert and coffee will be served. You’ll have an opportunity to congratulate the awardees at the end of the event. Check the mobile app for a list of the prestigious awards that will be presented.
INFORMS Student Chapter Annual Awards Ceremony & Reception
Monday, October 21 | 7:30–8:15pm
REGENCY – Regency Ballroom, 7th Floor
Join us in Celebrating Student Achievements at the INFORMS Student Chapter Awards Ceremony! Gather with us to honor the exceptional accomplishments of our student chapters and leaders. Witness the presentation of prestigious awards and share in the collective pride for our outstanding students. Remember to check the mobile app for a comprehensive list of honorees.
INFORMS Member Meeting
Tuesday, October 22 | 7–7:45am
REGENCY – Regency Ballroom, 7th Floor
Join us for a special breakfast gathering at the INFORMS Member Meeting. This annual event is a perfect opportunity to connect with peers, celebrate our shared achievements, and show appreciation for outstanding INFORMS volunteers. We look forward to starting the day with you!
INFORMS After Hours! at MoPOP
Tuesday, October 22 | 7–9:30pm
MoPOP, 325 5th Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98109
Come spend an evening with us at one of Seattle’s most iconic cultural landmarks, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Enjoy appetizers, cocktails, and exclusive access to the museum’s renowned exhibits, featuring music, science fiction, fantasy, horror cinema, and video games. Immerse yourself in interactive displays, marvel at the stunning architecture, and soak in the vibrant ambiance that MoPOP is famous for. Full Conference Registration name badges are required for entry! Roundtrip transportation will be provided via the Seattle Monorail starting at 6:30pm. Ride the monorail from Westlake Center to Seattle Center, home of the Seattle Space Needle and adjacent to the MoPOP Museum.
EXHIBITOR BOOTHS
Sunday, October 20 | 12noon–5pm, 6:15–8pm
Monday & Tuesday, October 21–22 | 9am–5pm
SUMMIT – Flex C
Stop by the exhibits between sessions to visit with partners sharing the latest solutions, innovations, and resources in OR/MS and analytics. Check the mobile app for a listing of this year’s exhibitors and sponsors.
INFORMS Center
SUMMIT – Flex C, Booth 210
The INFORMS Center is the heart of the 2024 INFORMS Annual Meeting! All attendees are welcome to stop by to chat with INFORMS staff and volunteers, grab some free goodies, and shop for INFORMS swag. Ask us your questions and share feedback on your INFORMS experience. Or use it as a meet-up spot to network with fellow members. We’ll also be offering informative posters to take back and share with your department to encourage more students to pursue an advanced degree in the decision and data sciences or to join and benefit from INFORMS membership. Last but not least, you can share your own story with the INFORMS community in a Member in a Minute video interview.
Keep an eye on your app notifications for updates on what’s happening at the INFORMS Center!
Pro Bono Analytics
SUMMIT – Flex C
Monday, October 21, 9am–5pm
Adjacent to the INFORMS Center, Pro Bono Analytics (PBA) will be hosting a special activity for attendees to make the most of their meeting downtime by giving back to a nonprofit organization in the host city of Seattle. This year, INFORMS has partnered with the Seattle Humane Society for a special activity to make blankets for homeless pets. Want to help? Click here to learn more and make a donation to support this charitable activity.
Poster Presentations
SUMMIT – Flex C
Monday & Tuesday, October 21–22 | 12:45–2pm
Poster Competition
SUMMIT – Flex C
Tuesday, October 22 | 12:45–2pm
Researchers, practitioners, and students share their operations research and analytics projects presented as poster displays.
Poster presenters need to provide a hard copy of their poster to display on-site. Presenters can either bring a pre-printed copy with them, or arrange to print on-site at Welcome to the 2024 INFORMS Annual Meeting! We’ve partnered with the FedEx office at the Seattle Convention Center, Arch building, to offer discounted rates for poster presenters. Printing takes 24–48 hours, and posters can be picked up starting October 17th at 735 Pike St., just one block from the Summit CC building. Hours are M-F 9am–6pm, Sat-Sun 9am–4pm.
Please preorder, as same-day poster printing is not available. For questions, please contact the FedEx team at +1-206-467-1764 or email usa5161@fedex.com.
Click here to preorder your printed poster for on-site pickup.
Poster competition finalists will present Monday & Tuesday, and winners will be announced after the final poster session Tuesday afternoon.
Program Kiosk
In addition to the mobile app, full program information can be found at the Program Kiosk located in the Flex C Lobby on Level 2 of the Seattle Convention Center, Summit Building.
Ribbons
Are you a Session Chair, Cluster Chair, or Poster Presenter looking for some flair to add to your name badge? You can locate these ribbons and others on our “Ribbon Wall” near check-in. We will also have a number of fun ribbons to add to your badge that share your interests and serve as conversation starters with other attendees. Senior Members and other longtime members of the INFORMS community are invited to stop by the INFORMS Center for special ribbons acknowledging your long-standing relationship with INFORMS!
INFORMS CAREER FAIR
SUMMIT – Flex A
INFORMS Career Fair & Networking Day
Sunday | 11am–5pm
INFORMS Career Fair Interviews
Monday & Tuesday | 8am–5pm
INFORMS Career Fair, the largest source of O.R. and analytics jobs, connects job seekers and employers in an informal atmosphere to discuss employment opportunities. Employers will collect resumes at the beginning of the Annual Meeting to set up interviews throughout the event. Check the “Schedule at a Glance” and Mobile App for event times and details! Check out the Annual Meeting Career Fair jobseeker page for other events listed. Upload your resume or register as an employer to make the most of this terrific opportunity!
PRESENTER AND CHAIR GUIDELINES
Are you presenting at the meeting or chairing a session? Click here for detailed instructions as well as tips and guidelines to ensure you have a successful and rewarding meeting experience!
