Strategic research is critical to the success of your event, but it can also be expensive. Here are 5 common research objectives and 4 cost-effective techniques. It apparently pays to understand your target market. But here’s a tip: Don’t do research unless you’re prepared to act on the information. Don’t ask any questions you can’t […]

Five steps for finding, vetting and hiring the best marketing firm to meet your show’s needs Hiring an agency can be a headache for time-strapped show organizers — both large and small. So we’ve asked our experts to share these five tips for finding, vetting and hiring help. Step 1. Consult colleagues, create a short […]

Registration technologies make it easy for attendees and exhibitors to sign up for an event, and they open the door to other advantages, helping organizers with marketing, tracking traffic and even security. Learn how to select registration services and maximize your investment.  How registration technologies are affecting trade shows ■ Attendee satisfaction. Online registration makes […]

What you need to know about designing your floor plan, including tips and tools on stand assignments, safety considerations, floor plan design software and traffic flow Start with the right blueprint Be sure you and your contractor are working with the most current blueprints from the facility. Construction, a major civic event, or security concerns, […]

What you need to know to keep your show free from theft and unwanted intruders The security RFP •  Start with the convention centre or hotel security plan and build from there. •  Identify areas of specific concern (I&D, registration desk, after-hours coverage, secured holding area or VIPs) and when security personnel are needed. •  Specify the number […]

Exhibitors are the biggest source of revenue for your event, but often complain of feeling like second-class citizens. Giving exhibitors premium service will pay dividends in renewals and loyalty. Steal ideas liberally from hospitality and other good service providers. Three principles of exhibitor service. Show you care — interest and empathy go a long way. […]

  Don’t forget the obvious • The basic messages should include when, where, what and who should attend. Consider incorporating these into the logo area so they’re never omitted. • Send a mark-your-calendar postcard or e-mail message as soon as the basics are confirmed. These initial mailings should reflect graphic elements of future mailings to begin building […]

Tips on reviewing your event from an attendee’s point of view Find out what attendees value • Explore all methods of gathering intelligence, from personal intercepts during the show to on-site survey cards or computer/digital surveys. • Do pre- and post-show surveys, and compare expectations and evaluations. • Be sure to include as many open-ended questions as possible. […]