The conference will consist of:1. LECTURES - these will be delivered by invited speakers as well as those selected from the paper submissions.2. PANEL DISCUSSIONS – bridging-the-gap between research and practice - structured panel discussions clustered around timely and/or “hot”/controversial issues of the day.3. INNOVATION SHOWCASE – product and service demonstrations delivered by exhibitors.4. FIVE-MINUTES-OF-FAME – Ten five minute presentations will allow the selected authors the opportunity to present their top projects, along with their significance, challenges, results and applicability. 5. WORK-IN-PROGRESS (online) – This will be a forum for presentation of research (master’s theses, PhD theses, etc.) and industry solutions for critical review/input.  This is meant to provide an interaction opportunity for researchers and practitioners to present and demonstrate their work and to obtain feedback from their peers in an informal setting. It gives conference attendees a way to learn about research projects whose preliminary results are interesting. It also provides presenters with an excellent opportunity to receive invaluable feedback from knowledgeable sources.6. SYNERGISTICS – this is a "new wave" poster session designed to showcase new projects, including online tools, research, and rich content. Each presenter will use their own support materials (laptops, printed materials, etc.).  Draped tables will be provided.  Wireless Internet connectivity will be available.