IMTS 2018 had its fair share of machine tools, 3D printers and advanced robotics. Meanwhile, the East Hall — home to Hannover Messe USA — took a more systematic approach, highlighting the smart components and techniques that will be integral in developing the digital factory of the future.

A big trade show can be extremely overwhelming. There are so many important suppliers to talk to, it's often hard to know even where to start, let alone how to plan a strategy to maximize your time spent.