Experts & Opinions
May 04, 2017
“Video Killed the Radio Star,” by The Buggles rang through my ears as I sat and pondered the future of this dynamic industry we work in – the Events Industry. All of us who are truly ingrained in it bring our own unique perspectives to this enigmatic topic. But most, I think, will agree with me when I say that our great industry will not “go gentle into that good night.” No matter what tests potential challengers – be it second screen distractions or virtual reality – pose, face-to-face interactions will always have more value than what any digital means can provide.
Let’s focus on just one… more
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May 02, 2017
Of all the types of event data we deal with at Bear Analytics, attendee verification data is one of the least exciting, but failure to understand who truly attends your trade show, conference or event robs your logistics and marketing teams of critical insights that can fuel event growth and more sophisticated forecasting and marketing.
Do you know how your event’s AOV coding is generated? Do you know, for sure, which registrants actually attended your last show?
Most large trade shows adhere to the Advance/Onsite/Verified (AOV) framework when it comes to verifying that a registrant actually… more
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Apr 25, 2017
Some of the most innovative and influential ideas for brand experiences come when people with diverse perspectives come together. We believe in “intersectional design thinking” – the power of bringing together diverse viewpoints to solve a challenge or think creatively about an opportunity.
But the act of bringing people together doesn’t always result in breakthrough thinking. The difference between a great brainstorm and a KILLER brainstorm is not leaving it to chance. As a facilitator, there are five important pieces to the brainstorm puzzle you can use to guide the… more
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Apr 21, 2017
So, how do we do this? Before you can personalize anything, you need to know who you are talking to. As usual, the champion (and yet at times the thorn in any marketer’s side) is DATA. You need to know and collect as much information from your exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees as possible. I know that this is no easy feat if one is new to digital marketing but start by taking baby steps.
Take a look at your current databases and lists. What information do you already have that can help you know your email recipients on a more personal level? I bet you know their first name! This then… more
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Apr 21, 2017
Recently, I was reading a blog for sales professionals: 4 Trends Dominating Customer Engagement That Sales Teams Need to Know About. It highlighted the fact that customers are more informed than ever about the product or service you (the sales professional) are attempting to sell them.
The information age has increased the transparency of the consumer -sales person dynamic. This transparency also, logically, applies to your competitor’s product/service(s). The standard practice today is to Google everything before getting on the phone with you or your company. You… more
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Apr 15, 2017
Sept. 11, 2001. That is the day that set the stage for the new psyche of America for the 21st Century. Vulnerability and fear are now played upon by politicians and the average American now realizes how fast things can change. I happened to be attending a workshop in Midtown Manhattan on 9/11 and I saw first-hand how fast the atmosphere of a fast-paced, cosmopolitan hub can change. In a matter of hours, the demeanor of the populace of the entire city went from business as usual to that of a silence procession heading home knowing that the future is uncertain and will never be the same.
At… more
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Apr 14, 2017
Event professionals know all too well the pressure to increase revenue each year. Budgets get tighter, costs are cut and yet the attendee experience is expected to improve – and so is attendance!
So how do organizers balance this list of competing priorities while still increasing event revenue?
One solution is to find additional revenue where no one is looking.
For instance, by adding a few creative sponsorships, you can generate extra revenue without compromising the attendee experience. These kinds of sponsorships can fund other aspects of your meeting which you would not be able to afford… more
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Apr 07, 2017
Everyone has an opinion. In our industry, one of the most talked about subjects today is lead generation and ROI. There are a lot of posts, blogs and commentary about the subject that have been doing the rounds with a large proportion of those people adamant that their way is right.
Here’s my way …
I was fortunate enough to be invited to the Event Tech Talks panel discussion titled Lead Generation 2.0 and ROI. I really enjoyed the session and I think because everyone has their own (strong) opinion on the subject, you could literally talk about it for hours.
I don’t think any definitive… more
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Apr 05, 2017
Virtual reality is a really hot topic right now in the events and social marketing industries. Though it certainly isn’t the first time VR burst onto the scene (remember the 1990s?), it seems the technology has finally caught up enough with programmers’ imaginations for there to be a real buzz and genuine consumer interest.
Like any event technology though, it’s important that virtual and augmented reality (AR) are aligned with event goals and are not simply a shiny distraction. If utilized properly, virtual experiences should seamlessly integrate into the event and help promote unique brand… more
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Mar 31, 2017
Companies spend a lot of money and time creating a unique and compelling exhibit or event presence that will make them stand out and connect with potential and existing clients. There is another way to stand out and to garner attention for your company and for your brand, and that is to have someone in the company speak at the event.
Speaking at an event can seem daunting and, depending on the size and quality of the audience, some question if it is worthwhile. While you may have reasons not to speak, I would argue that there are also many benefits to your company and to you. As… more
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Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.