29 Jun 09 Where to Turn in a Bad Economy

You may have some great ideas on how to save money on food, beverages, equipment, materials, and other items needed for a successful meeting. But what about the venue? Resorts and hotels are now outside the means of some companies and businesses. Where should you turn for these in a bad economy?

The answer may be easier than you think–the convention center. Not only are these facilities improving their technological infrastructures, remodeling older environments, and adding services, but they are also positioning themselves to be the answer to high-profile properties.

In a day when businesses are worried about their public images, the convention center has emerged as the next big thing. Although hotels are scaling back their room rates, convention centers are marketing to companies that want to reduce their conference costs overall. New conference centers are also springing up all over the world, with upgraded technology in the even the smallest facilities.

As a planner, of course you need to make sure that the conference center is appropriate for your client’s needs. They may need a center close by, for instance, but if your local conference center does not provide the proper technology you may have to use a hotel or resort. However, with the new technology and flexibility of today’s conference centers, you may be able to find one that can make adjustments for a specific event. The key here is to check–always–before excluding a particular center that may be ideal in other ways.

A conference center can also be the answer for a client that is considering canceling a meeting that is already scheduled. Before you take “cancel” for an answer, always raise that possibility. It could save the meeting as well as your bank account and reputation as a top-notch planner.

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