AGENDA

Ten Reasons For Meeting Planners To Get Wired

If all the hype and statistics about the growth of the Internet has not convinced you of its merits as a sales and communications tool, here are ten reasons why meeting planners should use the Internet.

1. Creating a web page gives planners a central place to post conference information, including agenda, airline and hotel information, and attendee's list.
2. A web page is an excellent source of pre- and post-conference revenue, as industry-specific advertisers pay premium rates for banner ads to reach target audiences.
3. The Internet allows planners a cost-effective means of researching conference facilities, hotels, airlines and related products.
4. A web page cuts the cost of disseminating conference information. Updates and changes can be posted and e-mailed directly to attendees.
5. On-line conference registration and confirmation is fast and efficient. It reduces legibility problems as information is typed.
6. Postage costs are virtually eliminated by using e-mail. A "Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQ) area on the web site reduces the time spent handling routine questions such as fees, agendas, and registration procedures.
7. Planners use the Internet to locate relevant speakers and presenters. Speakers' homepages have sample speeches, previous bookings, and client testimonials to assist organizers in choosing the right presenters for their conference.
8. A conference web page includes a conference library with presenters' speeches and bios, and other resource material to prepare the attendee.
9. Inter-office e-mail is an efficient means of exchanging information and creating a paper trail of everyone's responsibilities and activities.
10. The Internet is an accessible storehouse for networking, and exchanging information with colleagues. It provides an inexpensive means of market research and gauging industry trends.