Leveraging the latest technology
 

In addition to our interest in bb cards and memorabilia, we have some interests in the coin hobby. We regularly follow the coin hobby press.

We note that a several of major coin shows, an attendee can go the an electronic directory and learn which dealers are carrying coins that meet his special interests. In another words, Dealer X specializes in Barber Halves, Dealer B in 19th century gold coins and Dealer K in modern proof coins. To the best of our knowledge this system has worked well for the dealers and the collectors.

It would be great for our hobby could implement such a system at the 2012
National. It would save a lot of time and energy and would make the event more enjoyable for all who attend.

What do you think?

That's a fantastic idea, but wouldn't that be too much work? Maybe I'm wrong, but it seems like there are so many dealers with wide ranges of cards, you wouldn't be able to get a narrowed list.

Idea
 

The idea is great. It could be as simple as a survey form during dealer registration and a pamphlet with the guide to dealers at the front door.

Good idea, but knowing how lazy alot of dealers are, I don't think many would take the time to do it. I've gone up to numerous dealers asking for specific cards and they either don't know if they have it, can't find it or never heard of it. That doesn't bode well for that type of thing. Just my 2 cents. :)

I think that is a great idea....at least in some form to put their specialties in either printed or digital form. I tend to think most dealers would have numerous categories they might fit in to...but I still think it is a great idea.

If you REALLY want to take advantage of the latest technology have a smartphone application that can map a course through the national based on those interests that a person has. The dealers could (but probably wouldn't) put all their types of wares into a databse which could be easily hit by some app.........or you could just wander around for 4 days like I will be doing in 3-4 weeks.............

This may not be in the dealer's best interest. Could it have a reverse effect, reducing the amount of traffic to the booth...thereby reducing unintended purchases or impulse buys?