We are a proud Strategic Industry partner of the German Convention Bureau’s (GCB) ongoing research, Future Meeting Space. Initiated by The Future Meeting Space Innovation Network, this in-depth study examines relevant developments in the event industry to uncover the future requirements for successful meetings when it comes to organising, technology, and event space. This year, the research is zooming in on the challenges of the post-Corona era and the new ecosystem of events.
By collaborating with the GCB, a valued ICCA World member, we are able to help deliver these crucial insights to our community. Inside this report, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of recent challenges and opportunities, but also clear, actionable strategies for innovative meetings.
The latest findings are based on a June 2020 survey of nearly 500 respondents primarily located in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Here’s a quick look at what you can discover with this comprehensive report:
Digital experience and technology
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Nearly 50% said it is extremely important to be able to book business events on current topics at short notice. They would accept that a large part of the participants and speakers participate virtually.
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29.8% would be thrilled if events provided more opportunities to participate (e.g., suggest speakers and then vote on potential speakers and items on the event agenda.)
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39.1% are enthusiastic about virtual group experiences taking place in real, physical spaces without having to wear VR glasses.
Venues and destinations:
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34.9% are enthusiastic about the idea of additional regional events alongside the main event, which take place simultaneously in different locations, so that the number of participants is smaller, creating a more "homely" atmosphere.
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Community-building skills are becoming increasingly important for venues and destination marketing organisations (DMO).
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Events as a hub of international relations cannot yet be replicated solely in the virtual space and still requires personal and physical interaction.
Education and development:
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36.6% would be enthusiastic about being able to use an "inspiration buzzer" to record and transcribe inspiring moments (e.g., during a presentation or workshop, at the touch of a button, and thus store ideas in real time.)
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35.1% are very open to follow-ups after events in order to continue the knowledge transfer beyond the actual event.
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40.3% are in favor of learning nuggets in the form of a summary after events (event audio recordings, written summaries, further interviews with speakers or podcasts are just a few examples.)