MiniHub Attendee FAQ

General Questions

What is a MiniHub?
A MiniHub is a local, in-person meeting that streams selected content from the main ISMRM Annual Meeting. It blends the benefits of virtual attendance with the strengths of an in-person gathering.

How is a MiniHub different from a virtual conference?
Attendees watch streamed sessions together, interact in real time, and participate in local discussions and posters.

Is the schedule the same as the main meeting?
Content is selected based on attendee preferences and, because this year the MiniHub is in the same time zone as the main meeting, sessions will be viewed both live and as recordings. 

Format and Logistics

How do parallel sessions work in a single room?
Multiple screens show different sessions, with audio streamed to headphones. Attendees can freely switch between the four parallel sessions.

Do I need to bring my own headphones or laptop?
You will need to bring your own headphones and a device that can run Zoom i.e. a smartphone or a laptop. 

Can I switch between sessions easily?
Yes, switching is quick and encouraged.

Scientific Content

Will I see all the same sessions as the main meeting?
A curated set of sessions is selected based on attendee survey preferences prior to the meeting and curated by the meeting Faculty. The MiniHub is tailored to the attendees – there will be something for everyone.

What about posters?
Posters that have been accepted to the main meeting can be presented by local attendees, as long as the poster is also presented in Cape Town.

Can I ask questions during talks?
Local discussion is led by senior leaders in the community (see the list of meeting Faculty) at the end of streamed sessions. Based on the meeting last year, the smaller group format leads to free discussion and opportunities to learn from leaders in their fields.

Networking and Community

Is there a chance to meet people and discuss research?
Yes, the smaller scale encourages informal networking and social events.

Is this format good for first-time conference goers?
Yes. It is welcoming, less overwhelming and more accessible.

Am I missing out by not attending the main meeting?
You might miss the full scale, but you have the opportunity to gain deeper, more focused interactions.

Practicalities

Is the MiniHub environmentally friendly?
Yes. It greatly reduces long-haul travel, but it also reduces travel time and time away from home.

What does it cost?
Registration is lower than for full conference attendance because it is only four days instead of five or six. This also reduces the costs of accommodation.

What facilities are available at the venue?
Wi-Fi is available for attendees to stream audio and access conference materials. Plenty of charging points will be available to keep laptops and smartphones powered up throughout the day. 

Is food provided, or should I plan to buy lunch nearby?
Food isn’t provided, but there are many food options within walking distance, as well as options on-site.