Geneva. MCI has launched a new educational and networking platform, promoting strong working relations in the meetings and events industry. Operated in conjunction with MCI Dublin, the inaugural MeetSmarter event brought together existing and potential clients with supplier-partners in an invitation only, hybrid meeting in Killarney, Ireland, on 21st and 22nd June 2012. 100 onsite delegates were joined by a further 400 globally via live streaming of the business sessions. A staggering 124,000 twitter impressions were achieved. Participants represented 57 distinct countries.
The meeting was entitled “A new dawn in meetings: the future is hybrid” and focused on new meetings technologies. At the event, experts from leading digital communication agencies demonstrated how new technologies can extend the reach and life cycle of meetings. Destination specialists provided valuable insight into selecting the right meeting location to maximize event success. Pre-event social media engagement driven by MCI experts helped build buzz and online community. The event was sponsored by MeetinIreland, Ireland’s national tourism organization and the local destination marketing organization, the Killarney Convention Bureau, as well as accommodation suppliers. Some feedback from attendees at the event included that 92% of attendees have ‘clearer understanding of a hybrid event’, 56% will run a hybrid event in the future and 92% predict an increase in their use of Social Media for business
“MeetSmarter marries MCI’s strong legacy as professional meeting planners and our pioneering role in new event architecture and technology. It allows us to foster meaningful dialogue with clients and create an educational networking experience that fosters relations with supplier-partners.” comments Padraic Gilligan, Vice President, Industry Relations, MCI.
