The Inside Self-Storage World Expo begins today in Tacoma, Wash., with a full day of educational seminars, the popular Self-Storage Q&A and the opening of the exhibit hall. Todays education features a variety of topics, including a new track for Canadian exhibitors, video marketing, the buy vs. build conundrum, beginners insight into social-media sites, choosing a great site for building and writing solid rental agreements.

One of the hottest tracks this morning is Learning From the REITs. John Traver, CEO of XPS Solutions, outlined five ways to compete with the REITs. One critical component: following up on leadsno matter where they come from.

Just before Travers seminar, Mark Beck, vice president of operations for StorQuest Self Storage, talked about the many ways self-storage operators can take advantage of educational resources, many of them free. He introduced a number of industry sources, but also several that are not industry-specific, including Academic Earth, iTunes University and even a number of apps for smartphones.

Later today, one of the shows most popular events takes placethe Self-Storage Q&A. Led by Jim Chiswell and Mel Holsinger, the event is not only educational but quite fun. The Q&A allows members of the audience to ask questions of their peers. Plus, many consultants and long-time operators are usually in attendance, making for a lively, interactive event packed with great info.

Following the Self-Storage Q&A is the opening of the exhibit hall from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This years show includes more than 50 exhibitors representing everything from software and development to online marketing and financing.

Education continues tomorrow, followed by exhibit hall hours. If youre here, please stop by the ISS booth, No. 112. Well have some great giveaways, plus wed love to hear your feedback on the show. You can also learn about the new ISS Membership Program. If you cant make it this year, be sure to look for more in the coming months about the ISS show in Las Vegas, March 14-16. Plus, well have a wrap-up of the entire show posted to the website later this week.