New York City event will educate about Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs).

Unlocking the Global Internet: Announcing the Landmark IDN Event and Auction in New York City

In an increasingly interconnected world, the internet continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of global communication and commerce. At the forefront of this evolution are Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), a revolutionary technology enabling internet users to connect with websites using domain names in their native languages and scripts. Recognizing the immense potential and growing importance of IDNs, a groundbreaking event is set to take place in the heart of New York City: the first-ever “IDN Event and Auction.” This pivotal gathering will serve as a beacon for businesses, domain investors, and tech enthusiasts eager to navigate the future of the global digital landscape.

Scheduled for Saturday, October 30, 2010, at 7:00 PM, this landmark event will be hosted at the elegant Haru Restaurant in New York City. Organized by the pioneering experts at IDNTools, the event promises an evening of unparalleled insights and networking opportunities. It is proudly sponsored by industry giants Register.com, Moniker, and SnapNames, underscoring the collective commitment to fostering understanding and adoption of IDNs.

Understanding Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs): Bridging Linguistic Divides

Internationalized Domain Names, or IDNs, are domain names that include characters from non-Latin scripts, such as Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Devanagari, Japanese, and many others. Traditionally, domain names were limited to a restricted set of ASCII characters (A-Z, 0-9, and hyphen). While this system served the early internet well, it created a significant barrier for billions of internet users worldwide who do not primarily use the Latin alphabet.

IDNs were developed to address this fundamental challenge, allowing people to register and access websites using domain names that reflect their native languages and cultural identities. This seemingly simple innovation has profound implications:

Enhanced Accessibility: IDNs make the internet truly global, allowing users to type website addresses in their native script, making online navigation more intuitive and accessible for non-English speakers.
Cultural Relevance and Branding: For businesses, IDNs offer an unparalleled opportunity to build stronger brands and connect more authentically with local audiences. A brand name in a local script resonates far more deeply than its transliterated ASCII counterpart.
Market Expansion: As internet penetration grows rapidly in non-English speaking regions, IDNs open vast new markets for businesses, enabling them to establish a direct, localized online presence.
Improved User Experience: Typing a domain name in one’s native language reduces cognitive load and potential for error, leading to a smoother and more enjoyable online experience.

The development and standardization of IDNs have been a complex journey involving global collaboration among technical bodies like ICANN and various domain registries. This concerted effort ensures that IDNs function seamlessly across the internet, upholding the principles of universal access and interoperability. The “IDN Event and Auction” aims to demystify this critical technology and showcase its practical applications and strategic advantages.

The Inaugural IDN Event and Auction: A Comprehensive Educational Experience

The core objective of the “IDN Event and Auction” is multifaceted: to educate domain registrants, businesses, and investors about the immense value and operational aspects of Internationalized Domain Names. The evening’s agenda is meticulously designed to cover key areas essential for understanding and leveraging IDNs effectively. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into:

The Value Proposition of IDNs: Delve deep into why IDNs are not just a technical novelty but a strategic imperative for global reach. Learn how IDNs can drive brand recognition, enhance SEO in local markets, and build trust with diverse customer bases.
How to Register IDNs: Understand the straightforward process of acquiring an IDN. Experts will guide attendees through the necessary steps, explaining which Top-Level Domains (TLDs) support IDNs and best practices for registration.
The Value of Developing IDNs: Beyond mere registration, discover how to effectively “develop” an IDN. This includes setting up websites, email addresses, and other online services using IDNs, thereby creating a truly localized digital ecosystem that caters specifically to non-Latin script users.
The Importance of Connecting with Local Audiences: Explore case studies and strategies for utilizing IDNs to forge stronger connections with specific linguistic and cultural groups. This segment will highlight how a localized online presence can significantly boost engagement and conversion rates.
The IDN Auction: A thrilling and practical demonstration of IDN value, the auction will provide attendees with the unique opportunity to acquire premium Internationalized Domain Names. This live auction will not only be an exciting component of the evening but also a tangible illustration of the market demand and investment potential inherent in IDNs.

Meet the Visionary Speakers: Industry Leaders Sharing Their Expertise

Though the full agenda is still being finalized, the event is proud to feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, each a luminary in their respective fields, promising to deliver cutting-edge insights and practical advice. These experts will share their profound understanding of the domain industry and the transformative power of IDNs.

Edmon Chung, CEO of DotAsia: As the CEO of the DotAsia Organisation, which manages the .ASIA top-level domain, Edmon Chung is a pivotal figure in the global IDN landscape. His extensive experience in internet governance, policy development, and domain name management makes him an authoritative voice on the strategic importance of IDNs, particularly within the vast and diverse Asian markets. Attendees will benefit from his global perspective on how IDNs facilitate digital inclusion and economic growth.
Elliot Silver, Renowned Domain Industry Blogger and Investor: Elliot Silver, through his highly influential blog Elliot’s Blog, has become a trusted source for news, analysis, and insights within the domain name community. Known for his keen eye on domain investing trends and market dynamics, Elliot will offer practical advice on identifying valuable IDNs, understanding their market potential, and integrating them into a successful domain portfolio strategy. His perspective is invaluable for both seasoned investors and newcomers.
Patrick Carleton, Executive Director of Associated Cities: Patrick Carleton brings a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, community, and local economic development. As the Executive Director of Associated Cities, he understands how digital infrastructure and localized online identities, such as those provided by IDNs, can empower communities and drive regional growth. His insights will connect the technical aspects of IDNs with tangible benefits for local economies and urban initiatives, highlighting the broader societal impact of making the internet more inclusive.

These speakers represent a confluence of technical expertise, market savvy, and community leadership, ensuring a well-rounded and deeply informative program for all attendees.

Secure Your Spot: Registration Details for a Pioneering Event

Given the inaugural nature and the caliber of speakers and sponsors, interest in the “IDN Event and Auction” is expected to be exceptionally high. To encourage early participation and reward proactive registrants, a special early bird registration rate is available.

Early Bird Registration: Register by October 1, 2010, to take advantage of the discounted rate of just $99. This is an unparalleled opportunity to gain access to cutting-edge information and networking at a highly accessible price point.
Standard Registration: For those who register after October 1st, the price will increase to $275. We encourage all interested parties to register early to secure their place and benefit from the significant savings.

This event is a must-attend for anyone involved in domain name management, brand protection, international marketing, web development, or domain investing. It’s an unparalleled chance to network with industry leaders, gain critical knowledge, and position yourself at the forefront of the global internet’s next major transformation.

The Future is Multilingual: Embrace the Power of IDNs

The internet is no longer a predominantly English-speaking space. As digital connectivity expands across continents and cultures, the need for a truly multilingual internet becomes paramount. Internationalized Domain Names are the key to unlocking this future, offering unparalleled opportunities for reach, relevance, and revenue in diverse global markets. The “IDN Event and Auction” in New York City is more than just a conference; it’s a foundational step towards understanding and harnessing this powerful technology.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from the best, connect with peers, and strategically position yourself for success in the evolving global digital landscape. Mark your calendars for October 30, 2010, and register today to be part of this historic event. The future of the internet, in every language, starts here.