Why Eventprofs Should Care About Accuracy

August 7, 2016

Last month, on July 5 to be precise, NASA made history by putting a solar powered space probe into a polar orbit around Jupiter.  After covering a distance of 1.74 billion miles and accelerating to a mind-boggling 74 km/s, Juno (as this very aptly named probe is called) changed its trajectory to settle into an orbit that was off the planned course by only one second. This stupendous navigational feat will enable NASA’s team to proceed with future orbits and science experiments as planned, without having to make any major adjustments. What a great achievement!

This may be an extreme example to begin with, but the hard reality is that in today’s age, accuracy of data, calculations and schematics is critical to the success of any venture. Industries rely on accurate measurements to deliver products that match specifications precisely, and consumers pay close attention to whether what they are paying for matches what has been promised to them.

This is just as true in the events industry as anywhere else. Whether it’s your floor plan or accounts receivable, the exactness of measurements and calculations is a big deal. Even small variations, which may not seem a big deal on a day or day to basis, can pile up and create huge headaches a few months down the lane. Booths that don’t line up on close inspection, financial accounts that are off by a few cents, or launch deadlines that slip by a day here or there – all these directly affect your role as a show organizer, and should not be acceptable. Minor inaccuracies that add up to big numbers not only affect your bottom line, but also your reputation with vendors and participants.

So, what are some things that eventprofs can do today to ensure the accuracy of their data in future? Fortunately, many exact planning and execution resources are easily available and can be put to excellent use to ensure that your data is precisely captured and reconciled. It starts with being aware that accuracy of data matters and putting a trained team of professionals together, is facilitated by giving them access to accurate technology tools, and confirmed with compulsory periodic reviews to ensure that projects are on course as planned.

When your team starts paying attention to the small details, the gains will be big. Resources will be optimized, expenses will stay on tracks and your audience will appreciate you delivering on what was promised to them!

Add new comment

Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact