Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Recognized as a CIO Top 100 by CIO Magazine

June 15, 2014

The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority was named a 2014 CIO Top 100 company in IDG’s CIO magazine’s 27th annual CIO 100 Awards. The CIO 100 Awards recognize 100 organizations that have distinguished themselves by creating business value through the innovative use of IT.

“For 27 years now, the CIO 100 awards have honored the innovative use of technology to deliver genuine business value,” said Maryfran Johnson, editor-in-chief of CIO magazine and events. “Our 2014 winners are an outstanding example of the transformative power of IT to drive everything from revenue growth to competitive advantage.”

The MCCA was recognized for consolidating operating procedures through the development and use of custom mobile applications, reducing the number of separate business processes required for running shows from 36 to 13.

Innovative mobile technology has made the MCCA’s sales team more effective and given all employees real-time access to the status of an event at any given time, eliminating confusion and streamlining event execution. By transferring information from paper binders to Apple iPads, MCCA staff can now address customer requests during an event more quickly and efficiently.

“Implementing mobile applications enabled the MCCA to act like a private sector business and do things faster and better than our competitors,” said the MCCA’s CIO Steve G. Snyder. “Eventually, the  idea is to let our customers browse their own historical order information through custom MCCA apps, which would accelerate the sales process tremendously.”

James E. Rooney, MCCA executive director, added, “I have always said that the MCCA has the most technologically advanced convention centers in the world. When it comes to a meeting venue’s technology, today’s event planners have high expectations, and their events place an incredible demand on our IT infrastructure.  Steve and his team have consistently exceeded the expectations of these events, and I’m thrilled that CIO magazine is recognizing their work. I know they will continue to display their leadership and innovation as we move into the future.”

MCCA is one of few government agencies selected for the CIO 100 among many international private  organizations.

Other 2014 CIO 100 Honorees include: AT&T, Cisco, EMC, General Motors, and Intel Corp. A full list of winners can be viewed online.

Executives from the winning companies will be recognized at the CIO Symposium & Awards Ceremony on Aug. 19 in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Snyder is one of four honorees who have been asked to speak on a mobile strategy panel at the awards event.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.