Turning Ideas into Action

By: Celine Gonzales

It is true to say that the success of any event is the result of a careful and thorough project plan. Creating this plan takes time and effort which can sometimes take well over a year to construct. Remember, communication is a key component. Take the time establish a relationship that will guarantee a successful and memorable event. A great event is not possible without an engaged team of individuals to aide in the duties and responsibilities of event logistics. Once you have constructed your event team (including volunteers), make sure that each person knows their responsibility prior to the event. Typically a week before the event is to take place, provide your staff and volunteers with a timeline. Each individual should have ample time to ask questions before the event begins and feel comfortable in their roll. It is easier to establish expectations prior to the event then the day of the event unless you schedule a walk-through of the event before guests arrive. When selecting venues, choosing an outdoor space is always appealing. It is always better to be prepared for the elements than to be caught in an uncomfortable situation and forced to make decisions quickly that may not be well thought out. It takes time, effort, and good project management skills to plan and organize a successful event.

In my experience of holding a big event, I leaned and realized a lot of things. I even made a step by step process on how to have a successful event. These steps are Step 1: Identify Your Objective or Goal. The first and most important step in planning a successful event is to think carefully about why you want to host it. You need to set a meaningful goal Add to My Personal Learning Plan, and use it to guide your decisions. Because events require such a big investment of time, money, and energy, make sure that running the event is the best way to achieve your objectives, before you proceed. Step 2: Choose a Time and Venue. Your event's time and location will have a big impact on how many people attend. When you choose a venue, look at the options from your guests' perspective. To encourage attendance, hold the event in a popular, easy-to-travel-to location, near public transportation hubs.  Take time to brainstorm the hurdles that people might have to overcome to attend, and come up with a strategy to address each one. Remember, you want to make it as easy as possible for people to attend your event. Make sure that you have several potential dates and times for your event, so that you have an alternative if your first choice is unavailable. Step 3: Plan Your Budget. Costs can spiral out of control when you don't stick to a budget Add to My Personal Learning Plan. So, think about how much you can afford to spend on this event, and ask yourself if this spend will allow you to achieve your objectives. Start by brainstorming Add to My Personal Learning Plan the basic theme of your event: will it be high-end, educational, or fun? And last step is Step 5: Plan the Experience. What type of experience do you want your attendees to have? And what will people do, learn, or take away from the event? Be creative, and try to add an element of fun to spark interest.