In recent years the meetings and event industry has grown considerably in terms of professionalism and improved knowledge standards. In spite of that growth event planners are still lacking in their understanding about technical production. Planners do not need to know how to operate a sound board, or install gear, but they are the bridge between the speakers on stage and/or those who are preparing presentations to be shown, and the audio-visual technicians who will make it all happen.
It is important that a planner clearly understand and can communicate to their client and presenters what the plan is for microphones, lighting, slides or video and overall technical production of the event.
Technical knowledge will help ensure the success of their event. Let’s face it, there are many ways that an event can go south because the planner didn’t ask the right questions or communicate the proper information to the presenters or the vendor.
An informed understanding of A/V capabilities demonstrates how valuable a planner is to their client. As the conduit between the lighting, audio-visual or production vendor and the speakers, a good planner is providing value-added information to the client and is in control of managing the entire event, including what is happening on the stage.
Considering how many events involve presentations and any variety of production requiring lighting, sound or projection, it is clear the best planners meet early with their A/V production team to plan and discuss all equipment and technical elements of the event. They research in advance of the show and are well-schooled in their knowledge of audio visual production.
