Lippman Connects Industry Peers With New Virtual Information-Sharing Experiences

June 18, 2020

Lippman Connects recently sold out the first of its new Digital Summits, which were created to facilitate the peer-to-peer exchange of information among event professionals in a virtual setting. Sam Lippman, president of Lippman Connects, organized and facilitated the event, which was capped at 15 exhibition and convention professionals.

At the first Digital Summit on May 29, participants looked at the topic of how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected meetings and events, and highlighted what some of the next steps might be for the industry. According to Lippman, the event professionals taking part said that the short-term situation is the worst the events industry has ever seen. 

Advice that came out of the discussion included the fact that planners shouldn’t focus on when venues and facilities will reopen as much as when customers are ready to meet again. Participants reported that while some customers are waiting for a safer event experience, others are waiting for improved economic conditions. 

Participants also discussed how the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Star Certification program is gaining strong support from the industry. Early adopters of the certification program have included hotel chains and convention centers.

Also coming out of the discussion was the fact that while a hub-and-spoke event strategy (creating smaller events in multiple cities that are then connected to an organization’s main event in real time via technology) might work for some industries, it was not practical for others. Additionally, planners were advised to exercise caution in using language that implies safety guarantees to avoid incurring liability for any pandemic-related issues.

More virtual information-sharing experiences are on deck from Lippman Connects. “Organizers have been telling us that the exchange of information has never been more important,” said Lippman.

Upcoming 90-minute Digital Summits, which are all scheduled for 2:00-3:30 p.m. EDT, will cover the following topics, which were determined based on a survey of previous attendees of Lippman Connects’ Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum and Large Show Roundtables:

  • June 12: Safety is Job One
  • June 26: Format and Platform Decisions
  • July 10: Pricing and Profit Models
  • July 24: Bringing Back Exhibitors and Sponsors
  • Aug. 7: Re-inventing Attendee Acquisition

Two additional events will be the repositioning of events originally scheduled to be face to face: the Exhibition Sales Roundtable and the Attendee Acquisition Roundtable, which will be held on June 25 and June 30, respectively. 

“Pivoting our events to virtual allows executives, managers, marketers and sales professionals to share up-to-the-minute information in real time from the safety of a home or office,” said Lippman.

For more information or to register for any of these events by Lippman Connects, go here.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.