march 18, 2013 • an advertising supplement to the san ... · tice. when faced with meetings or...

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March 18, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to the San Fernando Valley Business Journal MEETINGS & EVENTS M eeting Professionals International (MPI) last year released the “Business Value of Meetings” study which identifies key benchmarks in the measurement of the business value of meetings including: percentage of busi- nesses who measure, barriers to implementation, crucial programming elements for organizational success and key skills needed for personal success. “This research enables our members and indus- try colleagues for the first time to assess their own practices against established, global benchmarks,” said Bruce MacMillan, president and CEO of MPI, “We now have the critical data to direct the devel- opment of tools and resources our professional community needs to speak the language of business and advance best practices in value measurement.” The study, conducted by Association Insights, was funded through an investment by AIBTM into the MPI Foundation’s Thought Leadership pro- gram in 2011. The initiative produced the “Meetings Deliver” report and tactical implemen- tation kit that aggregated market research from multiple sources. Based on the findings in the study, MPI has been at work to develop an exten- sive set of business tools that professionals can use to immediately introduce meeting value measures to their events and communicate the value in rele- vant business terms. “We are proud to have this study revealed at AIBTM during America Meetings Week,” said Steve Knight, Project Manager with AIBTM. “This defini- tive research provides up to date information that enables our industry to have a better understand- ing of the value of meetings. We look forward to the resources that this Thought Leadership Initiative will deliver in the future.” After interviewing 261 corporations in 27 coun- tries, researchers found that globally less than 10 percent of meetings are currently measured for business value. The deciding factor of whether to measure or not depends primarily on whether the meeting business goals focus on specific return on investment (ROI). The study identified that many businesses rely on the current marketplace defini- tion that there is implied business value if partici- pants are satisfied with the meeting or event objectives. While the establishment of clear business objectives for the meeting or event is identified as the most important element in successful meas- urement of business value, it is also the number one barrier to establishing a measurement prac- tice. When faced with meetings or events that do not have clear financial objectives, often meetings are dismissed as immeasurable, when in fact this research found business value of meetings can be measured whether relying upon ROI or not. The report explores the impact of implied ROI, often articulated as “we wouldn’t have the meet- ing if it wasn’t valuable,” and outlines many of the successful elements of active measurement programs associated with high expense events. While the research indicates that tradeshows, sales meetings and marketing events draw the most scrutiny on business value, researchers discovered that the key tactics used measuring these types of events can be applied universally. The three most common traits of successful measurement initiatives include: 1. Clearly defined meeting and event objectives. 2. Appropriately designed data collection methods. 3. Thorough evaluation of results. Interviews with senior planners that contributed to the study identified two core skill sets that are vital to successful programs. Those skills in their simplest definition are design and analysis. Properly designing surveys to align with objectives and ana- lyzing data in order to make statistically reliable sug- gestions for improvement make planners more valu- able and marketable business professionals. “The ability for planners to immediately to use this research is incredibly important,” said MacMillan. Another important finding within the research describes that regardless of current business climate or perception of meeting value, planners who intend to pursue business value measurement processes can begin to incrementally implement certain tactics that are not disruptive to business operations. Detailed information about the study, other initiative deliverables, upcoming webinars and the toolkit for industry professionals is available at mpiweb.org/bvom. Study Identifies Benchmarks, Reveals Business Value of Meetings ‘We now have the critical data to direct the development of tools and resources our professional community needs to speak the language of business and advance best practices in value measurement.’ BRUCE MACMILLAN, Meeting Professionals International

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March 18, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to the San Fernando Valley Business Journal

MEETINGS& EVENTSMeeting Professionals International (MPI)

last year released the “Business Value ofMeetings” study which identifies key

benchmarks in the measurement of the businessvalue of meetings including: percentage of busi-nesses who measure, barriers to implementation,crucial programming elements for organizationalsuccess and key skills needed for personal success.

“This research enables our members and indus-try colleagues for the first time to assess their ownpractices against established, global benchmarks,”said Bruce MacMillan, president and CEO of MPI,“We now have the critical data to direct the devel-opment of tools and resources our professionalcommunity needs to speak the language of businessand advance best practices in value measurement.”

The study, conducted by Association Insights,was funded through an investment by AIBTM intothe MPI Foundation’s Thought Leadership pro-gram in 2011. The initiative produced the“Meetings Deliver” report and tactical implemen-tation kit that aggregated market research frommultiple sources. Based on the findings in thestudy, MPI has been at work to develop an exten-sive set of business tools that professionals can useto immediately introduce meeting value measuresto their events and communicate the value in rele-vant business terms.

“We are proud to have this study revealed atAIBTM during America Meetings Week,” said SteveKnight, Project Manager with AIBTM. “This defini-tive research provides up to date information thatenables our industry to have a better understand-ing of the value of meetings. We look forward tothe resources that this Thought LeadershipInitiative will deliver in the future.”

After interviewing 261 corporations in 27 coun-tries, researchers found that globally less than 10percent of meetings are currently measured forbusiness value. The deciding factor of whether tomeasure or not depends primarily on whether themeeting business goals focus on specific return oninvestment (ROI). The study identified that manybusinesses rely on the current marketplace defini-tion that there is implied business value if partici-pants are satisfied with the meeting or eventobjectives.

While the establishment of clear businessobjectives for the meeting or event is identified asthe most important element in successful meas-urement of business value, it is also the numberone barrier to establishing a measurement prac-

tice. When faced with meetings or events that donot have clear financial objectives, often meetingsare dismissed as immeasurable, when in fact thisresearch found business value of meetings can bemeasured whether relying upon ROI or not.

The report explores the impact of implied ROI,often articulated as “we wouldn’t have the meet-ing if it wasn’t valuable,” and outlines many ofthe successful elements of active measurementprograms associated with high expense events.While the research indicates that tradeshows, salesmeetings and marketing events draw the mostscrutiny on business value, researchers discoveredthat the key tactics used measuring these types ofevents can be applied universally.

The three most common traits of successfulmeasurement initiatives include: 1. Clearly defined meeting and event objectives. 2. Appropriately designed data collection methods. 3. Thorough evaluation of results.

Interviews with senior planners that contributed

to the study identified two core skill sets that arevital to successful programs. Those skills in theirsimplest definition are design and analysis. Properlydesigning surveys to align with objectives and ana-lyzing data in order to make statistically reliable sug-gestions for improvement make planners more valu-able and marketable business professionals.

“The ability for planners to immediately to usethis research is incredibly important,” saidMacMillan.

Another important finding within the researchdescribes that regardless of current business climateor perception of meeting value, planners who intendto pursue business value measurement processes canbegin to incrementally implement certain tactics thatare not disruptive to business operations.

Detailed information about the study, other initiativedeliverables, upcoming webinars and the toolkit forindustry professionals is available atmpiweb.org/bvom.

Study Identifies Benchmarks,Reveals Business Value of Meetings

‘We now have the critical data to direct the development of tools andresources our professional community needs to speak the language ofbusiness and advance best practices in value measurement.’

BRUCE MACMILLAN, Meeting Professionals International

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30 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL MARCH 18, 2013

What’s come to be known as acontemporary masterpiece ofluxury and modern delights

awaits meeting goers at the Los AngelesMarriott Burbank Airport Hotel located inthe “Media Capital of the World.”

With easy access from allmajor freeways, this hotel issurrounded by more than 700media-related and entertain-ment companies includingNBC Universal, Walt DisneyCompany, and Warner Bros.Entertainment and is centrally located toUniversal Studios, Hollywood and LosAngeles and major attractions. The hotelis directly across from the Bob HopeAirport — a convenient and friendly air-port with 70 flights daily, offering directflights to New York and home to majorcarriers such as Alaska, American, Delta,Jet Blue, Skybus, Southwest, United, andUS Airways. Complimentary daily shuttleservice is offered to and from BurbankAirport as well as to downtown Burbankjust 4 miles away.

The Los Angeles Marriott BurbankAirport Hotel has the largest meetingspace in the San Fernando Valley area —50,000 square feet of flexible meetingsand banquet space! It’s largest meetingroom is the Academy Ballroom withmaximum meeting space of 15,015square feet and maximum seating capaci-ty of 1,900. There are also 22 meetingrooms for breakout and training sessions.

Largest Meeting Space in the ValleyOffers a Blend of Luxury and Modern Technology

MEETINGS & EVENTS

At the Warner Center Marriott, you can be confident your event will be just the way you imagined it. Picture perfect and attention to detail is second to none. Only herecan you take full advantage of our premium service and amenities, we focus on the details so you can focus on the celebration.

21850 Oxnard Street | Woodland Hills | Ca 91367818 887 4800 | warnercentermarriott.com

Ask for our current packages, please call 818 887 4800 and ask for Sales.

Exclusive AtmosphereServiceInclusive

YOUR NEXT MEETINGJUST BECAME A HOLLYWOOD EVENT.

Book by May 31, 2013. Starting at $145*.

Located just minutes from the City’s most popular entertainment andbusiness destinations, The Beverly Garland combines modern amenities and

high-tech meeting rooms with seven acres of lush grounds, a pool andtennis courts – this is a meeting destination that’s bound to be a big hit.

Book your 2013 event no later than 5/31/13to take advantage of this special value.

60,000 Priority Club points

Complimentary coffee break daily

One-hour welcome reception for

meeting attendees

Choose from these great perks:

OR OR

Call the Sales Department at 818.255.7491.

*For new business only. Group must be at least 30 room nights. Subject to space availability and signed contract.

4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood | beverlygarland.com

MEETINGS & EVENTSLOCATION SPOTLIGHT:LOS ANGELES MARRIOTTBURBANK AIRPORT HOTEL

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MARCH 18, 2013 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL 31

MEETINGS & EVENTS

A RE-ENERGIZED TEAM AND INCREASED PRODUCTIVITYAREN’T THE ONLY REWARDS FOR CHOOSING MARRIOTT.

Designed with equal parts opulent resort settingsand convention center resources, we’re the perfect host for your next tradeshow, sales presentation,team gathering, family event or holiday party. Takeadvantage of more than 50,000 sq ft of flexible indoor and outdoor function space to create an experience your guests will never forget.

For more information, call 1.818.840.6487 or visit Marriott.com/BURAP.

LOS ANGELES MARRIOTT BURBANK AIRPORT 2500 Hollywood WayBurbank, CA 91505

All meeting spaces are convenientlylocated on one level. Teleconferencingfacilities and audiovisual resources arealso available, and the Self ServiceBusiness Center is available 24 hours withcomplimentary internet access.

The Los Angles Marriott BurbankAirport Hotel has an outstanding multi-cultural, multi-lingual staff with in-depthknowledge capable of handling all typesof specials events from traditional cele-brations to custom ethnic events.

Accommodations at the hotel were

designed for the future with environmen-tally-friendly facilities and amenitiesincluding 20 PURE and 488 guest rooms— of which 79 are one bedroom suites.All suites have a separate living area withrefrigerator. All guestrooms have wirelessand are “Wired for Business” in room toassist business travelers with efficientinternet connectivity.

All guestrooms include Marriott’s bed-ding, luxurious bedding-down comforters,custom duvets, fluffy pillows and rich cot-ton linen. Each room also features a 32”

flat screen LCD TV with high definitioncapabilities. The hotel also offers each guesta chance to perform more efficient work inthe room with new swivel desks, ergonom-ic chairs and the “Plug-In-All-In Room” fea-tures by Marriott.

The next phase includes an open lobbyarea featuring a Day/Night Bar, communaltables, social gathering areas and a businesscenter. The health club is state of the artwith the latest in cardio and weight equip-ment. Just outside the hotel is a retreataway from the busy work schedule with two

pools featuring outdoor cabanas, fire pitsand relaxed seating. The hotel’s Daily GrillRestaurant and Bar is located on the proper-ty and features breakfast, lunch and dinner.There is also standard 24-hour room serviceand a complimentary Business Center onthe property as well as a gift shop.

Information for this article was provided bythe Los Angeles Marriott Burbank AirportHotel. For more information, visithttp://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/burap-los-angeles-marriott-burbank-airport/.

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32 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL MARCH 18, 2013

By SCOTT MILLS

In 1961, Bob Dylan famously said,“The times they are a changin’.”Today, in 2013, that sentiment still

holds true. The times are definitely chang-ing, and for the better. Economic fore-casts, Wall Street, sales and employmentnumbers are all trending upward. Morebusiness means more business meetings.And the tone, style and substance ofthose meetings are changing too.

Here’s a look at how the BeverlyGarland is meeting the trends of 2013:

Glamour is Back. That can mean anythingfrom chartering a private yacht on theMediterranean to the unmatchable glam-our of Los Angeles and Hollywood. Ifyour budget doesn’t include privateyachts, but you definitely want to plan aunique meeting, look no further thanThe Beverly Garland. Designed to evoke“authentic LA”, the style of this hotel isinfluenced by California Mission andSpanish Hacienda architecture. Each ofthe 255 guest rooms and suites includesprivate balconies, many of which over-look the Hollywood Hills, and the SantaMonica and Verdugo mountains. It’s LA

glamour matched with sleek, modernamenities for your perfect event.

Variety is the Spice of Life. Whether you’replanning for an intimate gathering of 30or a lively group of 650, the BeverlyGarland will customize its 12,000 squarefeet of meeting spaces to accommodatenearly every size and budget. You’ll findnine distinctive and flexible venues,including a 650-guest capacity GarlandBallroom. There’s even a 132-seat, state-of-the-art, on-site screening room, furnishedwith plush chairs with retractable desks,perfect for film festivals, symposiums and

continuing education seminars!

Thinking Outside the Trapezoid. It’s noteven a box anymore – meetings can beanywhere and we know facilities shouldbe creative. Look no further than theBeverly Garland’s indoor and outdoorenvironments. Have a gathering by thepool, challenge your teams to tennismatches or plan separate “Hollywood-themed” events.

Destination is Inspiration. Although we’renestled within seven tree-shaded acres,we’re just minutes from Universal

Beautiful Venue is Poised to Meet 2013’s Top Trends

MEETINGS & EVENTS

VenturaCountyWest is close and easy to get to, yet feels far from the everyday routine. And while it may feel extravagant, you’ll find

VenturaCountyWest to be California’s great coastal value.

In the world of truly legendary meetings, there is no room for ordinary and VenturaCountyWest is no ordinary place.

Great meetings begin when distractions are removed and replaced with inspiration. They happen when the atmosphere is fresh

and focused, and when details are executed flawlessly.

Meet in(800) 648-2124 venturacountywest.com

8 212448

REGISTER TODAY!

Is your companyone of the BestPlaces toWork in the SanFernando Valley?

Register to participate by: Friday, May 17, 2013

For more information or to register your company, visit www.bestplacestoworksfv.comor contact Breanne Kamai at [email protected] or call 323.549.5225 ext. 216.

Advertising Supplement: October 28, 2013

The San Fernando Valley Business Journal is pleased to presentthe Best Places to Work Awards. This event allows localemployers the opportunity to participate in a professional programconducted by Best Companies Group on subjects such asLeadership, Corporate Culture and Communications, and muchmore. A detailed survey is provided to participating businesses, andleading companies are honored at an exciting awards celebration.

MEETINGS & EVENTSLOCATION SPOTLIGHT:THE BEVERLY GARLAND

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MARCH 18, 2013 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL 33

Studios, CityWalk, the Hollywood Bowl,Dodger Stadium, Disney and WarnerBrothers Studios, Beverly Hills and count-less other world-famous attractionsunique to Los Angeles. And our LA rootsgo deeper than proximity. The BeverlyGarland Hotel was named after theHollywood actress, of the same name,most famous for her role in My ThreeSons. Ms. Garland originally purchasedthe property from the legendary icon,Gene Autry. Guests can even find Ms.Garland’s fabled star on the HollywoodWalk of Fame—right on the corner ofHollywood & Highland. Who wouldn’tbe inspired by that?

Shaken not Stirred. Not every brilliant ideahappens within a structured work envi-ronment. Ideas percolate long after theconference ends and oftentimes areenhanced during casual get-togethers.The Beverly Garland offers elegant diningchoices and a lively cocktail lounge forjust such impromptu encounters. TheDirector’s Room seats up to 14, for boardroom seating, or can be elegantlyredesigned for a private dinner for up to24. Tula’s, named for Beverly Garland’sgranddaughter, provides fresh flavors thathighlight the best of Mediterranean cui-sine with a local California influence.Our cozy, inviting Decoy Lounge, namedafter one of the television series in whichMs. Garland starred, offers a casual, mod-ern Los Angeles atmosphere as well as anextensive cocktail list, perfect for relaxingand making business a pleasure. If you’rereally looking to shake things up, inquireabout our Trolley rides!

Understanding the Bottom Line. Whenplanning the perfect meeting, we under-stand that value, location, quality (andfrankly the bottom line) are all importantfactors when settling on your next meet-ing destination. The management teamat the Beverly Garland is there to set thestage with a personalized space thatspeaks to event attendees and ensuresyour success.

The Beverly Garland offers a relaxedoasis, located just minutes from the fast-paced hustle and bustle. Whether plan-ning an executive meeting, conference,banquet or special occasion, booking aninspiring location, complete with person-alized touches, is critical to success.

Scott Mills is the General Manager of theBeverly Garland. For event bookings, call(818) 980-8000 or visit www.beverlygar-land.com to submit an online Request forProposal.

THE BEST VIEWS OF THE ACTION, WORLD-CLASS AMENITIES AND

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO VIP EXPERIENCES!United Club Suites are the perfect setting to entertain a client,

potential investor, reward employees or enjoy an evening out

with friends and family.

· Complimentary food & beverage for all quarter, half and full-season packages.

· New 5-game packages including, Opening Day, BOS or NYY.

· All-inclusive individual game rentals & 3-game value packages.

DODGERS.COM/PREMIUM

“The best premium seat in Major League

Baseball…Fans who sit here typically say

that once you’ve sat in these seats for a

game, sitting anywhere else just doesn’t

seem to cut it.” – USA Today

· Now with more pricing and package options than ever before!

323-224-1320

The Dodgers’ newest premium experience has been renovated,

modernized and designed to offer a truly unique baseball experience!

· Now including the widest seats in Dodger Stadium!

· Increased riser height for dramatically improved sightlines!

· Flexible packages starting at 10 games to fit your schedule.

[email protected]

MEETINGS & EVENTS

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34 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL MARCH 18, 2013

California’s Great Coastal Value

MEETINGS & EVENTS

Planning a special event in the LosAngeles area can be challenging.Venue prices are often high and

sought-after locations sometimes requirereservations at least a year in advance. Addtraffic, crowds and the general hustle andbustle of a big city and the special eventcan turn into a big headache. An areaclose to Los Angeles that is being noticedby meeting and special event planners forits value and Southern Californian vibe isVentura County West— the cities ofCamarillo, Oxnard and Ventura.

VenturaCountyWest is a throwback tothe California of a few decades ago—withuncrowded beachesand quaint mainstreets, the historicSan BuenaventuraMission, acres ofstrawberry fields andcitrus groves, an old-fashioned pier, work-ing harbors and just offshore—whalewatching and the Channel IslandsNational Park. Add world-class golf cours-es, shopping, award-winning wineries,farm-to-table restaurants and more than200,000 square feet of conference spaceand 4,000 guest rooms and it is easy tosee why VenturaCountyWest is becominga favorite meeting and event location.

Camarillo

Closest to Los Angeles of the threecities, Camarillo is a delightful surprise.Its charming old town is filled with out-door cafes, specialty shops and a Saturdaymorning Farmers Market with locallygrown produce. A little further down the101 is the 160-store Camarillo PremiumOutlets where tourists come from aroundthe world to shop. A few miles away arethe World War II Aviation Museum and

Commemorative Air Force at theCamarillo Airport. Visitors get a firsthandaccount of airplane history from veteranpilots and crew. Renovated vintage air-craft such as a C-46, a C-131, and aJapanese Zero are on display along withhistorical exhibits and aviation art.

Many Camarillo meeting locations arein picturesque settings. Sterling Hills GolfClub, for example, features a Spanish-stylebanquet facility that can accommodate upto 225 guests, perfect for business meet-ings, weddings, holiday parties and associ-ation gatherings. Hartley Botanica is locat-ed on three acres of landscaped grounds,

paved walkways,waterfalls, and vine-covered archwaysdesigned specificallyfor outdoor eventsand garden weddings

and receptions. Camarillo hotels offermeeting rooms that can hold from 10 to150 attendees. Other standout locationsinclude Hampton Inn & Suites Camarillo,Residence Inn by Marriott Camarillo andCourtyard by Marriott Camarillo.

Oxnard

The seaside city of Oxnard has every-thing your guests look for in a beachtown: miles of beaches, ocean breezes,kayaking, whale watching, evening cruis-es, museums and beachfront and harbordining. The sky is literally the limit. Takea helicopter tour of the ocean and TopaTopa Mountains and then touch downon one of the Channel Islands only 11miles from shore. Meeting planners canarrange for teambuilding adventures suchas sailing a tall ship along the coast byway of the American Tall Ship Institute,take a sea excursion to the Channel

Islands (also available from Ventura) ororganize corporate games on the beach.

Here is just a sampling of Oxnard loca-tions that accommodate large confer-ences and expos, business events andsocial gatherings. Largest of the Oxnardproperties is Embassy Suites MandalayBeach Hotel & Resort with 16,000 squarefeet of flexible meeting and event space.For meeting planners who want to addgolf to the itinerary, there is ResidenceInn Oxnard River Ridge. Its 12,000 squarefeet of conference and special event spaceis adjacent to two PGA-rated River RidgeGolf Courses. The Courtyard by MarriottOxnard with nine meeting rooms and8,000 square feet of meeting spaceincludes a full service business center,complimentary high speed wireless inter-net access in guestrooms and publicareas, and professional catering andaudiovisual services.

There are numerous other qualityOxnard hotels that can easily accommo-date smaller parties including HamptonInn Channel Islands Harbor andHomewood Suites by Hilton Oxnard. Fora meeting setting with the charm andambiance of a bygone era, discover LaDolce Vita in downtown Oxnard’sHistoric Heritage Square. The restaurant isin a renovated 1901 three-story historichome with dining for 20 to 220.

Ventura

Ventura offers an eclectic mix ofbeachside and inland charms. VenturaHarbor Village is home to a variety ofindependently owned restaurants servingGreek, French and Italian fare, not tomention some of the best seafood inSouthern California. After dinner, visitorsoften take in a night of laughs at the

Ventura Harbor Comedy Club. A fewblocks from the shore is Ventura’s MainStreet, perfect for strolling, samplingwines and foods and shopping. Venturais also home to Jim Hall Kart RacingSchool, group surfing and kayaking les-sons and wine and culinary tours—allwhich can be incorporated into team-building activities or corporate gamechallenges.

Many Ventura lodging options are inthe heart of all the action. Four Points bySheraton Ventura Harbor Resort is aneasy walk to the harbor for an evening offine dining and entertainment with viewsof harbor sea life. Its 12 meeting roomscome in all sizes, up to 6,400 square feet,and can seat as many as 600 banquetguests. The Crowne Plaza Ventura Beachis Ventura’s only beachfront hotel. Closeby are the Ventura pier, downtown shop-ping and entertainment and theAMTRAK station. It offers full conventionservices with more than 17,000 squarefeet of meeting space as well as thepanoramic views at its “Top of Harbor”room. All 11 newly renovated meetingrooms include state-of-the-art audio/visu-al equipment. Finally, the MarriottVentura Beach, just steps from the shore,features 16,276 square feet of meetingspace with 19 meeting rooms. Exhibitionspace is also available.

Oceanfront resorts, historic and scenicsettings and golf course venues—VenturaCountyWest has just about everykind of locale for a corporate or social event.

Information for this article was provided byVenturaCountyWest. For lodging, meetingand venue information, visitwww.VenturaCountyWest.com.

MEETINGS & EVENTSLOCATION SPOTLIGHT:VENTURACOUNTYWEST

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Anew guide commissioned by thePCMA Education Foundation usesa collection of behavioral science

studies curated by psychologists to deter-mine what can enhance the value of face-to-face experiences for both attendees andplanners. “The Appliance of Science: 39Ways to Improve Your Meetings” is a col-lection of insights made possible througha partnership with UK-based performanceconsultants The Meetology Group.

Grounded in academic research and his-torical survey data, the guide provides acomprehensive, easy-to-understand list ofopportunities that planners can use toreevaluate the experiences they create. Bysurveying existing bits of scientific researchrelated to attending and designing meet-ings, the report delivers insights into howto improve group dynamics and interac-

tion, how to inspire innovation and howto maximize performance at meetings.

“Rather than make assumptions aboutwhat matters to attendees and how theycan perform better at meetings, thisguide gives us some groundwork neededto help understand what truly matters tothem,” Liz Erikson, Chair, PCMAEducation Foundation, said. “This inves-tigation uses leading thinkers fromaround the academic world to analyzethose assumptions and deliver real ideasbased on proven concepts of what canlead to more effective meetings andmore engaged participants.”

Six Categories of Scientific

Meeting Improvements

Divided into six categories, TheAppliance of Science outlines steps to trans-

form the face-to-face meeting environment.Mental: How to harness the value of

grumpy attendees, how to train partici-pants memories and four more tips tounderstand brain performance and howthoughts and emotions affect meetingoutcomes.

Social: Why meetings need morefemale attendees, why mistakes are posi-tive and four more lessons on interac-tion, influence and persuasion.

Space: What temperature at which toset the room, what colors inspire creativi-ty and five more insights into whatmakes the perfect meeting environment.

Wired: Computer-based negotiation,mind-reading capabilities and four morepredictions for how emerging technolo-gies will shape the future of face-to-face.

Physical: How to reduce attendee

stress, how to overcome jet lag and fourmore tips to help meeting organizers andtheir participants sleep, eat and breathebetter meetings.

Bizarre: The importance of doodling, danc-ing and five more unconventional tips toincrease the value of face to face interaction.

The role of the Education Foundation of theProfessional Convention ManagementAssociation (PCMA) is to support the mis-sion of PCMA through fundraising and grantgiving focused on scholarships, educationand research that will advance the meetingsand conventions industry. Established in1985, the Foundation fuels advancement,nurtures professional development andshapes tomorrow’s meeting and conventionleaders. Learn more at pcma.org/foundation.

New Report Unveils Various WaysScience Can Improve Meetings

Renovation Takes Already SuperbMeeting Space to the Next Level

MARCH 18, 2013 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BUSINESS JOURNAL 35

MEETINGS & EVENTS

The Warner Center Marriott islocated in a vibrant communitywith excellent weather conditions

and surrounded by a community parkand garden space. The pool courtyardhas been previously renovated to createan Urban Oasisdrawing local clien-tele to dynamic out-door events hostedby the property.The hotel has agood proportion of function space, draw-ing conference and convention business.

The recent lobby renovation has pro-vided a multi-faceted space large enoughyet intimate enough to fulfill a variety ofroles within the experience of the hotel

guests; a location for social or businessinteraction, a brief stopover or interestingspot to hang out, a meeting location, orplace to enjoy a beverage or light meal.Casual and contemporary furniture stylesreflect the southern California lifestyle,

with seating lay-outs to encouragesocial minglingand space providedto accommodateindividual or small

group business needs. The lobby is energized during the day

by the Starbucks Coffee outlet and atnight by the centralized bar. Cocktailcubby seating provides a more sedatebackdrop to the high energy bar height

cocktail tables. Media is a focus withinthe immediate bar area and in adjacentrelaxed seating locations.

The focal point of the new Greatroomis the dramatic chandelier fabricatedfrom recycled rings of bottle glass cascad-ing from a 30’ ceiling to terminate abovean over-scaled chess board. Artist createdchess pieces offer a functional and funarrival statement. The interlocking ringsof the chandelier are referenced withinthe pattern of handmade area rugs,anchoring furniture groupings within thevast natural wood floor of the receptionlobby.

Technology is updated within theGreatroom area, with connectivity loca-tions provided to enable guests to power

their personal electronics from the pro-vided seating areas. Vibrant colors ofgreen, gold and amber are punctuatedwith intimate seating cubbies covered indeep red leather.

The natural flow from lounge to din-ing spaces is reinforced with upgrades tothe seating, and carpet that continues thetheme of interlocking circles into the gra-cious galleria style restaurant.

The renovation of the Warner CenterMarriott will offer a multi-faceted guestjourney where public spaces offer the ver-satility to inspire personal, professionaland collaborative experiences.

Information for this article was provided bythe Warner Center Marriott.

MEETINGS & EVENTSLOCATION SPOTLIGHT:WARNER CENTER MARRIOTT

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