Experts & Opinions

Aug 23, 2015
Consistently putting together successful events is something that even the best event management companies sometimes struggle with – after all, there are so many variables in each event that can decide its ultimate success or failure that even years of experience can’t guarantee that everything will go smoothly. But while the events industry might seem rather unpredictable, it does not mean that it can’t be boiled down to a science. In fact, there are certain characteristics of a successful events agency that are always present in the organization process of the best events. So for those who… more
Aug 15, 2015
A great event management team will do their absolute best in covering all the bases for their event(s), especially when it comes to fulfilling needs and satisfying both clients and end users. As 2015 is the Year of the Attendee, these needs are something important to consider prior to, during, and even after an event has ended. Below are a few ways to help meet attendee needs. 1: CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY: ENGAGEMENT The pre-event chatter is essential in getting to know the type of attendee, what attracts them to the event, and how they plan on taking their acquired knowledge with them… more
Aug 15, 2015
The idea of going zero waste at a trade show is a pretty interesting notion and can be an intense undertaking. A recent study by Statista found that 18 percent of U.S. exhibiting companies felt it was possible to exhibit at a trade show while maintaining a goal of zero waste. It’s disheartening to see this number is so low, and unfortunately this low number means most people are not attaining a zero waste exhibition experience. With some careful thought and planning it is possible to go zero waste at a trade show. Here are 5 ways you can work to reach this goal. 1.    … more
Aug 09, 2015
Exhibitions and trade shows can be very productive events for businesses, but it is important to get the experience right in order to make the most of these kinds of opportunities to present your brand and products. 1. Choose the Right Exhibition: Attending the right exhibition can help you to reach out to the right audience, to make useful connections, and to focus on the right industry or geographical location, but spending time on the wrong event could be a serious waste of time and resources. It is essential to research an event before you decide to exhibit there so that you can be sure… more
Aug 01, 2015
A trade show display is a big investment and most businesses don’t want to just throw that money away. But sometimes the law of diminishing returns sets in. That $60,000 booth that made such a great impression 10 years ago may be giving off a bargain basement vibe today.  It can be tough to know the best route to take. As a result, many companies just leave old exhibits sitting in storage, accruing storage charges without getting any benefit. What can you do to make the most of your existing exhibit? First, ask yourself a few questions to evaluate the impression your exhibit is making… more
Aug 01, 2015
I’ve written a lot lately about the importance of relying on data as a guide for decision-making. And for good reason! Organizations outside the event industry have been mining data to create hugely successful new products and services for years (think Google and Facebook). Experts in both worlds have made it clear that they see great potential for organizers, associations and venues in data investment and analysis, suggesting there’s an opportunity for those who get in on the action early to grow their business by anywhere from 10 to 100 times its current size. That said, I was reminded by… more
Jul 26, 2015
Dynamic new technologies can draw audiences to live events, and that’s why many marketers have incorporated things such as 3D effects, holograms, and D-BOX motion systems into their presentations. People love witnessing new technological marvels. But if you add tech to your marketing event without considering the full experience, you can actually make customers uncomfortable or undercut the value of your presentation. For instance, many people find holograms of deceased celebrities creepy, and not everyone wants to interact exclusively with machines and screens. After all,… more
Jul 18, 2015
Thankfully, today’s events have evolved from the days of stuffing a bunch of people into a hotel conference room, wowing them for two days, and then packing up and planning for next year’s get-together. Now, you can extend the life of your gathering by using data you collect over the entire year. And in today’s competitive landscape, this isn’t just a nice option; it’s a necessity. If you fail to leverage the value of your event marketing beyond the event itself, you’re not going to be able to use your event’s fixed costs to get a good return on your investment. Marketers who recognize this… more
Jul 18, 2015
The days of dedicated phones and conference rooms to conduct web conferences are fast becoming archaic relics, as businesses adapt to the latest advancements in web conferencing technology. A recent survey of small businesses from consultancy Software Advice surveyed small business employees (those from companies with 50 or fewer on staff) that are currently using web conferencing technology to show how these companies are adapting to technology trends, and which web conferencing features they use and value the most. The survey uncovered several things: Web apps rule If you don’t have to… more
Jul 12, 2015
Giving away handouts at trade shows is by no means a new concept. However, it is common to overlook the importance of giveaways and to undermine their potential for increasing customer retention. There should be a strategy behind your trade show literature handouts, yet all too often companies think as long as they have something to distribute, they are in the clear. If the process is well thought out in advance, the overall effectiveness of your efforts can be increased tremendously. So, where do you start? Here are five considerations to make sure you do it the right way! What does your… 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.