Indianapolis, IN -- The Custom Electronic  Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) has announced that its fourth annual  Electronic Lifestyles Forum will be held at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in New  Orleans April 1-4, 2009. The event will offer education, networking, and guest  speakers aimed at optimizing collaboration among electronic systems  contractors, architects, builders, building designers, and interior designers.

CEDIA's Electronic Lifestyles Forum, which sold out in 2008, will highlight the importance of thoughtful collaboration among all professionals partnering on an electronic systems project. Classroom education will break down and explore the processes involved in adding technology to the home, encouraging efficient practices and allowing participants to better understand one  another's roles.

Expert presenters, including renowned business speaker Scott McKain, will emphasize the importance of effective partnership in an increasingly competitive field. CEDIA has also developed structured networking sessions designed to encourage cross-industry interaction and the sharing of specific, actionable solutions to common project issues. 

"Electronic Lifestyles Forum will continue to build on the  past successes of CEDIA's outreach efforts to the residential design-and-build community," said Marc Leidig, Electronic Lifestyles Forum action team chair. "Attendees will have the opportunity to learn alongside some of the brightest minds in our industry and partner industries, all in an environment that invites open discussion of the most efficient strategies for collaboration on  electronic systems for the home."

As in previous years, CEDIA has coordinated with key design-and-build industry associations to ensure that each industry is represented by some of the most prominent professionals from coast to coast. However, new for 2009, electronic systems professionals' attendance will be limited to those who invite an industry partner to join them at the event. Registration for the 2009 Electronic Lifestyles Forum will  open January 6. Space is limited. To take advantage of early bird registration discounts, register by March 9. Learn more at www.cedia.org/elforum .