Announced Friday, the First International Meeting of Domain Names will be held on Monday 26 and Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at Forum de Grenelle in Paris.

Organized by the Mailclub and Sedo, this unique event of its kind sponsored by the AFNIC intended to bring under one roof all stakeholders of the ecosystem of domain names.

The idea is to collect. Why? Charles (director and founder of Mailclub) and I will see several reasons that could be summarized in the triptych about - understanding - learning.

"Knowing" for the failure is in my opinion one of the weights that may prevent the market for domain names assert itself fully. And I speak not only of ignorance of these protagonists, but also the kind of hermetic bubble where I sometimes feel like changing. The domain is a consumer product, being the foundation of any Internet presence, has no reason to be familiar only to a handful of insiders.

"Understanding" because even though considerable progress has been made in this regard in recent years, the thinking and work of some is still misunderstood by others. And I see ultimately a risk of regression. Even though many have made an effort of understanding and tolerance so far, some lines have been and are obviously more difficult to move. Leading to a suspicion of frustration and resignation among some.

"Learning" as the market for domain names is still young and his players have far more work in their own corner. Many perfectly mastered their subject but have not necessarily asked how complementarities and synergies with their next door neighbors might enable them to broaden their knowledge or skills.

Who are these meetings? Simply put, all those who have the domain name for a common denominator. And not only "distributors" of the market that are records, registrars and platforms of buying, selling and monetizing traffic. Specialists in marketing / online advertising, lawyers and investors in domain names are also all nominated candidates. And the list grows if one adds webmasters, consultants naming strategy, managers, specialists in SEO, ISP's, search engines, developers, specialists in e-commerce and others ...

I invite all the little people to take this opportunity to get out of his den. And particularly investors in domain names, for which the event is to me a great opportunity to explain their work and / or their passion. In addition, I am sure there are speakers and very talented teachers among you!

For my part, I have the pleasure to host several sessions dedicated to the secondary market of domain names and to participate in some panel discussions. More information about the program and speakers will follow in the coming days, stay tuned!

If you have questions or suggestions regarding these meetings, they are welcome here or by e-mail.

Until then, I am glad to review them and meet the others: o)

When y'en more, still y'en:

• A forum dedicated to domain names?
• 2008 report of perception. Com
• Investing in domain names
• The baker does not eat bread
• A new blogologo