Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is INCOSE?
INCOSE is the International Council on Systems Engineering. Information about the history of the organization, its mission and objectives can be found on the website at www.incose.org.

What is INCOSE Symposium?
The INCOSE symposium has a rich history that dates back to 1990, and has continued uninterrupted every year to the present. The symposium continues to be the largest annual gathering of systems engineering professionals, educators and researchers.

When and where is the symposium this year?
The 23rd Annual INCOSE International Symposium takes place from the 24 to 27 June 2013, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, Philadelphia, PA. Check the conference program for tutorials and tours that may be scheduled both before and after these dates. Observe the published deadlines to benefit from reduced room rates in the conference hotel.

Who can attend the symposium?
The symposium is an open event and everyone who registers and pays their registration fees is welcome to attend. Attendance includes access to the technical sessions, the exhibition area and food and beverage for the day. Access to some special events, such as tutorials and tours, will require special registration.
Although early registration is encouraged, it is possible to register on-site, but some limited-availability options, such as the banquet, may be closed. Participants are encouraged to bring their family members, but special conditions may apply regarding access to the event. Extra guest tickets are available for some sessions on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is there a theme for IS 2013? I did not see one on the website.
INCOSE began to brand the International Symposium since 2010 under the specially designed INCOSE International Symposium logo. At the same time INCOSE decided to NOT have a specific theme for each conference to reflect the versatility of the symposium program. Themes were never the only subject of former symposia, and were more misleading than helpful. This year, we are using slogans such as 'Inspiring Legacies' to feature the locale for IS2013.

How much does symposium registration cost?
Registration options for the symposium include a full registration, which covers all four days, unlimited access to plenary and technical presentations, food and beverage for lunch and pauses, access to the exhibitors’ hall and all activities scheduled therein, the conference banquet, and registration materials including the proceedings. Tutorials and external tours, and guest tickets are available for sale when you register.
Registration for a single day or a two-day entrance are also provided with the same provisions for the days specified. Attendance for three days will be treated as a full registration.
INCOSE members (as of 31st December 2012), new INCOSE members, and members of affiliated organizations are eligible for discounts on the basic technical program registration fees. These discounts do not apply to other activities such as tutorials, tours, receptions or the banquet.
The sale of extra proceedings and other INCOSE paraphernalia is also available during early registration or on-site at the registration desk.
For the exact registration prices, please check the symposium website in March 2013.

When can I register?
Online early-bird registration will open in April 2013. The early discount period generally extends until 40 days before the event begins. Online registration is closed 3 working days prior to the start of the event. On-site registration is also accepted.

Additional questions about the registration process should be directed to symposium_registration@incose.org.

Where can I stay?
INCOSE encourages participants who will require overnight accommodations to stay at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown to take advantage of the hotel's amenities and to enjoy the comfort and convenience of this hotel. Also, by booking your room at Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, you will be helping INCOSE control costs and meet its contractual agreements with the hotel to utilize a minimum number of guest rooms in exchange for the use of meeting space.

I am a presenter; do I have to pay to attend the symposium?
Unless special arrangements are stipulated, all presenters shall pay the required fees to attend the symposium, at the minimum for the day of their presentation(s). Failure to register before the specified deadline may result in removal of the paper or panel from the final published proceedings and forfeiture of your place in the technical program.

Exhibition Hours
Location: Exhibit Hall – Franklin Hall – Level 4

May I photograph or video record sessions?
The nature of the INCOSE agreement with presenters precludes photography or video recording of any session without prior written permission from INCOSE. There are appointed volunteers who capture the event for our daily newsletter and archival purposes. These photographs are generally made available on the public website shortly after the conclusion of the event.

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