‘The future is now.’ That being said, it’s time to think of what might lay ahead of us in the (near) future. What will change for the meeting industry? And what will forever be the same. Today I’m going to share my thoughts with you. Let’s see if I’m right!
Super fast internet – everywhere!
With super fast and reliable internet as the standard (whether it’s back home, during your intercontinental flight or at the waiting room at the dentist), it’s easier and more convenient to set up virtual meetings and events. Large scale online webinars are easily held whereby it’s not an unilateral affair, but an organic, interactive gathering.
The big data hairball
With big data becoming more and more important and organisations know better how to handle the big data hairball. We can use all the digital obtained information to market our events better, make planning easier and convenient for all parties involved. With the smart online agenda’s that are linked with email, social media en (written) conversations – you’ll have a pretty fast answer to the ever big question: ‘How many attendees do I have?’
Niches
People don’t have a lot of time. That’s something I don’t think will change very soon. So instead of large scale events, there are probably going to be more small scale events where quality beats quantity.
People business
But in the end the meeting industry will always be a people’s industry. Planning an event has a lot to do with the X-factor, the gut feeling. Therefore getting to places will stay very important. With the ongoing price wars, comfort and service stays on top of the list of reasons to choose for an airline, hotel or venue. Meeting planners are people’s people, so make them feel welcome and partner up with them.
What do you think will change in the (near) future? Let me know in the comments!
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