The comments were kicked off by James Hutchinson, creator of iMan, an integrator tool who said he didn't mind paying although "it seems a bit steep, especially considering last year's debacle with the ill thought-out floor plan." Sage appears to be conceding the point on the 2013 show. "We know last year's floor plan had flaws in its inaugural design," responded Sarah Brush, Sage's events manager. Brush said exhibitors get more for the bigger fees, describing the plan as turnkey pricing for floor space and services, whereas last year's plan included space and electrical service. This year, they also get more conference passes, increased marketing exposure and a format, "that is open all day." However, Irwin Ash, president of perennial exhibitor Executive Concepts/ACCU-DART, commented that it "sounds like exhibitors will be helping footing the cost of discounted attendee fees." Sage cut the early bird channel registration for users to $99 per person, but partners have to pay $399. That compares to the full rate of $799 that kicks in on March 28. This all looks like a tough sell, although Paul Ziliak of xKzero said it would be worth it "if Sage can deliver two to three times the number of end user customers and create an environment for a higher level of engagement." Ziliak says he expects a higher level of reseller attendance