Meetings

When we talk about successful event planning, the emphasis is quite often on the word "planning" and all the tools and techniques we employ to ensure a successful event. But what about after the event? How well do we evaluate/measure the success of the event, and do we spend the time necessary discussing what went well and where there is room for improvement?

How do we find just the right mix of structured programming while offering opportunities for organic networking and some fun too? There are several ways to incorporate some "downtime" that keeps attendees engaged – without burning them out.

Check out music, art, history and more in some of the fastest-growing cities in west and central Texas.

I recently attendeded ConferenceDirect's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference (D22) at the Hilton City Center in Denver, CO. This represented the organization’s first annual event bringing together a diverse group of meeting professionals, ConferenceDirect associates, and industry partners to explore a range of DEI topics and how they affect meetings and events.

Make attendees' presence count with thoughtful programming that not only last but lays a great foundation for repeat registrations and engagement.

Meetings with wide appeal should always be on the planner’s agenda, so how do you tick the boxes for attendees whose worldview was shaped by the Great Depression and those who have never known a day without a digital device?

A recent report from Lodging Econometrics found that Dallas’ pipeline of hotel projects is well ahead of every other U.S. metropolitan area. There are plenty of plans afoot in the rest of the Lone Star State as well.

Online networking and hybrid meeting is still a great option for those unable to travel, but keep cybersecurity top of mind with new (and old) tech.

We may still be living in an era of uncertainty around COVID variants, but more than ever before, face-to-face meetings are a part of wellness – including mental health.

Education, networking and growth are the top benefits of association meetings, but people also crave a little leisure time.