INDUSTRY REPORT

In June, we invited Convene readers to participate in a short online survey.We wanted to know how they were keeping up with their attendees’ ever-increasing expectations in terms of AV, Wi-Fi, and other technology services. Not surprisingly, they told us that their biggest challenge isn’t staying on top of technology, it’s keeping costs in line. While atten- dees might expect to be seamlessly connected to the Internet for free throughout the meeting space, the majority of planners said they can’t afford the high costs of providing them with Wi-Fi access.

They’d also like to offer the latest and greatest in presentation technology—“You can’t skimp on AV; this is one of the most important components of any meeting,” said one respondent. But that’s often beyond their budget as well.

So, how are they working things out? The numbers—and responses sprinkled throughout this story to two open-ended questions:What is your biggest challengewhen it comes to yourAV, Internet, and other technology requirements? andWhat is themost innovative use of technology services that you have either experienced or imple- mented at your ownmeeting?—tell their story.

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pcma convene September 2011

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