Salisbury, MD (November 29, 2007) – From unique meeting
needs to prestigious reputations, Knowland reveals the top five reasons
behind the ‘why’ of site selection. The results may not be what you
think!
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1. Location
Planes, Trains, and…Nightclubs
A coordinator for a northwest sports association explained to Knowland
researchers their only requirement is that the event be located near downtown
nightlife. “We have a large group that likes to enjoy post meeting
activities,” she states, stressing the importance of keeping the attendants
happy.
Whether the criteria includes nearby golf, proximity to an airport,
or indulging in local culture, Knowland reveals that location is the most
important factor for 44% of event planners.
2. Successful Past Experience
Disaster Averted
During a training session for a bioengineering company, one planner
recalled having miscalculated the guests to food ratio which caused a disastrous
situation. The kitchen was unable to accommodate the rather large
oversight; however, quick thinking by the hotel event director resulted
in a speedy delivery by a local pizzeria. The potential disaster
was avoided, and the guests left smiling due to the savvy ability and service
of the hotel staff.
Knowland research reveals that 21% of meeting planners surveyed base
their location selections upon previous successful experiences.
3. Unique Meeting Focus
Nuclear Science, Blown Glass, and ‘007’
One thing frequently cited by meeting planners is that the unique focus
of their events drives the site selection process. When planning
their semi-annual seminars on glass blowing, one planner complained of
a difficult time locating a site that met his strict criteria. “The
use of flammable gas indoors and an extra large meeting space are critical
to our demonstrations,” he commented. Another group reported frustrations
at having only one electrical outlet for an entire group of over 200 nuclear
scientists. On another occasion the coordinator for a ‘007’ conference
revealed that a “unique urban, black space” was essential for her themed
events.
Whether the event requires flammable gas, electrical outlets, or meeting
space style, Knowland research reveals that a meeting’s unique focus determines
its location for 17% of event planners surveyed.
4. Reputation
Keeping up with the Joneses
“The reputation of a hotel can mean everything for the turnout of our
events,” said the meeting coordinator for a southern beauty academy.
This coordinator further revealed that she selected hotels based solely
on the recommendations given by peers within her community.
This particular meeting planner illustrates that referrals, references,
and reputation are included in the top criteria for 12% of meeting planners
surveyed.
5. Cost
Cutting Corners
Prices and budgets make up the fifth most important criteria for site
selection – causing meeting planners to find creative ways to cut costs.
One planner commented that, upon experiencing harsh budget cuts, they downgraded
the location and completely removed the food portion of their dinnertime
awards ceremony. Another meeting planner recalled eliminating ground
transportation costs by relocating to airport hotels and having attendees
walk to the location…leading to tired and unhappy guests.
When it comes to price tags, only 6% of coordinators listed cost among
the most important criteria for selecting event location.
 About
Knowland Group – Headquartered in Salisbury, MD, The Knowland Group
is a premier provider of sales and marketing products and services to the
hospitality industry worldwide. Poised as a leader in the industry,
Knowland stands a cut above the rest in over 70 markets within the United
States, Canada and beyond. Single minded in its goal to add client
value, Knowland is a proven innovator, consistently striving to develop
market changing products and services. For more information, visit
www.KnowlandGroup.com or call
410.860.2270.
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