Experts & Opinions

Nov 11, 2021
What exactly defines a “technology company?” Wikipedia says it’s an electronics-based business related to internet-related services, software, yadda yadda. There’s no doubt that Apple, Samsung, Dell and Amazon are tech companies. But let’s consider Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, which are all classified in that category. They are categorized as such, given that their services are delivered online or through mobile and their revenue is generated by selling data or access to information. Makes sense. On the other hand, these companies offer the ability for people to connect, communicate and… more
Nov 09, 2021
The coronavirus outbreak ended social gatherings and events as we know them, seemingly overnight. Now almost two years into this pandemic, we’re realizing just how important events are to our personal and professional lives, and we want them back. In June of this year, as the vaccine started to make its way around the world, the events industry started to see signs of recovery, and attendee confidence was on the rise. But that quickly unraveled with the emergence of the Delta Variant. It’s now clear that the pandemic isn't over just yet and that the rules of engagement are still very much… more
Nov 03, 2021
Video is now at the forefront of social sharing, networking and business marketing. It’s driving immense growth on nearly every social platform. Instagram, once a photo-focused app, just recently shared that they’re moving away from photo and leaning into video content. It’s no secret that the reason videos perform well on so many platforms is because of the entertainment they provide. While technology grows and preferences shift, video has quickly become a definite must to catch the eyes of potential buyers. This push for video doesn’t just stop at digital viewing. You guessed it—it’s… more
Oct 31, 2021
As the trade show industry started coming back to life over the summer and everyone collectively held their breaths hoping beyond hope that the attendees would show up – something very unexpected happened. The attendees arrived in force – ready to buy and in good numbers – but what actually was missing in a lot of cases were the exhibitors. We all know marketing budgets were slashed and the uncertainty around whether attendees would be at a show or not, along with some corporate travel bans, all are reasons exhibitors may not have been on the floor. But – we need to help them understand… more
Oct 28, 2021
As digital experiences continue to make waves in this ever-changing industry, the idea of a “venue” may take on a new shape. Everyone is familiar with in-person venues, but the idea of a completely different venue experience online is going to have a huge impact on how events will look and operate moving forward. All-in-one software platforms have really become digital venues for gathering people together. Like physical venues, there are strategic decisions to be made about what venue is chosen. No one tries to cram 3,000 exhibit booths in a hotel ballroom, instead, planners contract… more
Oct 26, 2021
Professionals have valued in-person events as a reliable way to make connections and network — and 68% of marketers say it’s hard to offer those opportunities in a virtual world. This challenge presents a massive opportunity, with 66% of event planners calling out the need to learn how to design digital event experiences for the future.  An Allied Market Industry Research forecast predicts that the event industry will reach nearly $1.553 billion by 2028. The shift to virtual and hybrid events will help drive the anticipated 11.2% of compound annual growth between 2021 and 2028. As we look… more
Oct 21, 2021
The world of corporate events was moving along quite nicely until the advent of COVID-19. But ever-versatile, the industry went online and survived virtually. Now, slowly but surely, in-person events are starting to grow again.  However, it appears that Pandora does not go so quietly back into the box. By all accounts, 73% of event planners believe that virtual and hybrid events are here to stay, even after COVID-19.  The nature of these events are still finding their best form and certainly have their flaws. But one of the brightest answers so far has been satellite events.  What Is a… more
Oct 19, 2021
Remember the good old days when millions of Americans got on planes and went to trade shows in every corner of the country? It was one of the most effective ways for people to connect and get deals done, and it was also an amazing tool for companies to build and promote themselves by giving away branded items that people would take home and use. Over the last year and a half, those opportunities have been severely curtailed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and while virtual events have filled the gap, most companies still can’t build long-term brand loyalty and exposure through SWAG. Or can… more
Oct 14, 2021
If you and I have a business conversation lasting much more than five minutes, there’s a good chance the subject of data is going to come up. I’m sorry, I just can’t help myself! I simply love the fact that data makes the world go ’round. For an IT professional, it’s been the steroid that has really juiced the entire technology industry. Now, if you look at what’s going on in the consumer/commercial SaaS world, it’s flabbergasting how data is enabling innovation and growth. In actuality, though, it’s not simply the existence of data by itself that drives value. There are two vital aspects of… more
Oct 12, 2021
Virtual and hybrid events have matured and evolved a great deal over the last couple of years, and they will keep connecting us long after the pandemic is over. Even as businesses move into pandemic recovery, events and conferences—a more than trillion-dollar industry—will largely remain virtual or hybrid for some time. Professional event planners will need to find virtual event solutions that provide a great attendee experience and are highly customizable. Additionally, in-person event attendees will expect more from conference apps than just being a prompt for the room where their next… more
Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.