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Meet MTA: Kelley Buckley, Billing Associate

The Miller Tanner Associates’ (MTA) difference is our people. That’s why we want to introduce you to our team of superstars that brings our corporate meetings and events to life for our customers. Today we introduce you to Billing Associate Kelley Buckley. Kelley puts the finishing touches on every event, delivering a comprehensive billing portfolio to our customers post-event.

Meet Kelley Buckley, Billing Associate

Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Consistency, Harmony, Discipline, Achiever, Strategic

Tell us about your current role with MTA. What are your primary responsibilities?  

I am a billing associate with the Finance Team.  After an event has ended, I work on gathering all of the meeting costs and completing the billing portfolio and invoice to send to the customer. 

What did you do before joining MTA?  

Before joining MTA, I was an office administrator for a local business for 5 years. 

What do you feel are the most fulfilling aspects of your job? 

Every day is different and keeps me on my toes!  There is so much to learn; encouragement for process improvement; room for growth in my career; and an absolutely wonderful and amazing team of coworkers! 

What are some ways that the Finance Team takes the burden off of the customer when planning an event? 

The customer can trust that MTA has their best interests at heart.  We are thorough every step of the way to ensure that once that final invoice and billing portfolio reaches them, it is accurate and they have all the supporting documentation with little to no questions. 

What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company?

First and foremost, it’s the employees.  I knew from my very first interview that MTA was something truly special because of the wonderful people they employ.  As for what MTA does, along with face-to-face events, MTA has also incorporated virtual events!  For those who are unable to physically attend, this is a great way to enable participation in the event.  MTA also has amazing products such as Attend (to manage your event), EPIC (event data at your fingertips), and VALTs (Virtual Assessment Learning and Training Source). 

Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together? 

I just attended my very first MTA Workshop in July in Dublin, Ireland!  I can’t even begin to fully convey how much I loved and cherished every single second of it.  It was truly the most amazing and fun time I’ve ever had at a company event.  The people of MTA really make this company what it is and I have made so many wonderful friends. 
 
I think it’s such a great idea for a global remote company to gather everyone for a few days to spend time together.  Being remote has its wonderful advantages, but the biggest disadvantage (even with Zoom) is not being able to truly form those face-to-face relationships with your coworkers. The Workshop solves that problem!  I miss spending that quality time with everyone in Ireland and am already looking forward to next year’s Workshop! 

What do you do for fun? 

For fun I enjoy spending time with my three kids, husband, and family – whether that’s going out for a meal together, hanging around the house, riding bikes at the Greenway, or visiting our favorite stores!  I also love to read, play video games with my husband, have movie nights, and play board games! 

Where do you live and what do you love most about your state/city? Any must-see tourist spots? 

Being in Middle Tennessee means it’s not too far of a drive to visit all the great tourist spots!  I’d say our two favorite places to visit are: 

Nashville:  We love going to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, comedy shows and concerts, Predator’s hockey games, and Titan’s football games. 

Chattanooga:  The aquarium is fantastic!!  We’ve camped in Chattanooga as well which was really fun.  They also have a fantastic German restaurant, Brewhous, which I always recommend! 

Anything else you’d like to add? 

I’m just so grateful to MTA for giving me the opportunity to work here with these wonderful people and letting my skills shine, as well as giving me the chance to travel the world for the MTA Workshops! 

To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com. 

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Chief Revenue Officer Scott Nodolf Named 2025 Chicago Titan 100 Recipient 

Scott Nodolf, CRO Miller Tanner Associates

Titan CEO and headline sponsor Wipfli LLP are pleased to announce Miller Tanner Associates Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) Scott Nodolf, recipient of the 2025 Chicago Titan 100. The Titan 100 program recognizes Chicago’s Top 100 CEOs & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry, demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion.  Collectively, the 2025 Chicago Titan 100 honorees oversee companies generating more than $70 billion in combined revenues, with an average revenue per company of $100 million and a workforce of over 439,000 employees.

“Chicago’s Titan 100 are redefining business with vision and purpose, setting new standards for growth, innovation, and impact. These trailblazing leaders inspire transformation across industries, uplift communities, and drive meaningful change. We proudly celebrate their legacy of excellence and unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter future for all,” says Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO. 

Scott is a proven commercial leader with a twenty-four-year track record of success within the life sciences and healthcare industries.  As Chief Revenue Officer over the past 5 1/2 years at Miller Tanner Associates (MTA), he has implemented a sustainable, customer-centric growth strategy that has been a driving force in MTA achieving historical revenue growth.  Scott continues to lead a high-performing commercial team, focused on understanding customers and their needs to create sustainable, long-term partnership success. 

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Titan 100 committee.  I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Marnie Battistini, founder and CEO of MTA, for her visionary guidance, to our customers and partners for their trust, and to the incredible team at MTA.  This award is a direct reflection of their passion and dedication in exceeding customer expectations through our personalized expertise and tailored solutions.  This recognition will continue to motivate us, as we drive innovation forward within our industry and create even greater value for our customers,” shares Scott. 

Titan 100 recipient

This year’s honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book and profiled exclusively online. They will be honored at the annual awards ceremony on February 20, 2025. The awards event will gather 100 Titans of Industry and their guests for an evening unlike anything that exists in the Chicago business community. 

“On behalf of the partners and associates at Wipfli, we congratulate the 2025 Chicago Titan 100 honorees. We appreciate the lasting impact each leader has made, and continues to make, in building organizations of significance both in Chicago and abroad. Your ingenuity and creativity have set you apart, and the honor of being seen as an industry Titan is richly deserved,” says Gary Shutan, Partner at Wipfli. 

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What is CSR?

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a major priority for businesses looking to make a positive impact on society. To help illustrate why many leaders are working towards it, take a look at what CSR entails, why it’s important, and how you can be more responsible with your own business.

Benefits of Corporate Social Responsibility

One of the most significant benefits of CSR is the positive social impact it can make. When businesses engage in CSR initiatives, they contribute to the betterment of the societies in which they operate. Education programs, supporting local charities, or investing in community projects all make a huge difference. This proactive engagement builds stronger communities and creates a supportive environment for the business to thrive.

A company’s reputation is increasingly determined by its commitment to ethical practices, including CSR. Businesses that are transparent about their CSR practices tend to enjoy enhanced brand reputation. This, in turn, fosters customer loyalty, as consumers are more likely to support brands that demonstrate a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

The advantages of corporate social responsibility extend to the workforce as well. In a market where talented employees are in high demand, CSR can often help workers feel more motivated and satisfied when they know their employer is committed to bettering the world.

CSR can also lead to financial and operational benefits. Businesses that adopt sustainable practices often see cost reductions in the long term through less waste and more efficient use of resources. Additionally, CSR actions can open up new markets as well as attract investors and business partners who value responsibility and ethics.

Types of CSR

In terms of practice, CSR is often divided into four main categories: environmental, philanthropic, ethical, and economic.

Environmental CSR

Environmental CSR focuses on eco-friendly initiatives and sustainable practices. Companies may adopt strategies such as reducing their carbon footprint, using recyclable materials in their packaging, or investing in renewable energy sources.

Philanthropic CSR

Philanthropic CSR often involves charitable donations and support for local communities. Businesses may donate a portion of their profits to charities or support social causes. This could include contributions to education, health, or other community development initiatives.

Ethical CSR

Ethical CSR involves conducting business in a responsible and ethical manner. Things like upholding workers’ rights, ensuring fair trade practices, or maintaining transparency in business operations all count.

Economic CSR

Economic CSR emphasizes the role of businesses in contributing to economic development. This could mean creating jobs in the community, paying fair wages, or supporting local suppliers.

How to Implement CSR in Business

Integrating CSR into corporate culture requires both strategic thinking and practical steps. Strategically, companies need to align their CSR objectives with their overall business goals. This might involve identifying key areas where they can make a significant impact and setting clear, measurable targets to hit as they go.

On a practical level, initiating CSR programs may involve training staff, adjusting business operations, or launching community projects. All staff members need to understand and support these changes. Open communication, active involvement, and regular reviews all help to make the implementation of CSR initiatives that much more successful. For a real-world example of award-winning CSR in action, see how Miller Tanner Associates achieved a gold-medal win with a transformational, immersive CSR program.

Integrate CSR with Your Business Today

CSR is both a moral obligation for businesses as well as a strategic opportunity. It enables companies to make a positive social impact, build better relationships with customers and employees, and achieve long-term financial benefits.

Businesses should embrace CSR practices and integrate them into their corporate culture for the betterment of society and the world at large. For expert guidance on how to do this, contact Miller Tanner Associates today. We are always ready to help companies thrive while making a positive impact on society.

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Event Planning vs Event Management

Understanding the nuances of event planning versus event management is essential for ensuring a seamless and well-executed function. Explore the differences between event planning and event management and learn the importance of both for in-person events.

Mastering the Art of Event Planning

Event planning is managing and coordinating all aspects of an event. It refers to all the elements that make up the strategic, pre-event decisions and involves the creative, technical, and logistical elements needed to deliver a high-quality experience for attendees. In scope, event planning encompasses everything from single-day workshops to week-long conferences.

Key Responsibilities in Event Planning

Event planners are responsible for developing a plan that aligns with the event’s requirements. This includes setting a budget, choosing event locations, arranging transportation, and coordinating with third-party vendors like caterers, decorators, and entertainers. Planners negotiate contracts, plan the event’s program, and organize guest accommodations. The event planner must ensure everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities.

Unraveling the Intricacies of Event Management

Event management pertains to the application of project management techniques to the creation and development of large-scale events. This involves implementing the well-laid event planning into reality, focusing on its effective execution. The scope of event management can range from corporate gatherings, award ceremonies, festivals, concerts, conferences, or even personal events like weddings.

Key Responsibilities in Event Management

Event managers’ tasks primarily revolve around executing the plans laid out by the event planner. This may include overseeing the setup of the event space, coordinating with staff and vendors, implementing health and safety regulations, and handling any last-minute changes or crises that may arise. They evaluate the gathering’s success post-event using feedback surveys, financial analysis, and team debriefings. Event managers are the primary point of contact throughout the event, synchronizing all components.

Drawing the Line: Differences Between Event Planning and Event Management

While event planning and event management might seem interchangeable at first glance, they serve distinct purposes, each contributing to a successful event.

Focus and Timeline

Event planning usually takes place well in advance of the actual event. This phase emphasizes an event’s strategic and creative aspects, including budgeting, scheduling, venue selection, and supplier negotiations. On the other hand, event management is focused on the event’s practical execution, troubleshooting, and post-event evaluation.

Decision-Making Authority

While event planners and managers both make critical decisions, they oversee different areas. Event planners often make more strategic decisions, such as setting the budget, selecting the venue, and determining the event’s format. Meanwhile, event managers typically make more operational decisions, resolving any on-day issues and ensuring the event runs smoothly according to the planner’s blueprint.

Execution and Coordination

The event planner’s job involves planning and coordination leading up to the event, while the event manager’s role is mainly about execution. This means event managers need to be able to think on their feet and make quick decisions to handle any last-minute changes or, in the worst-case scenario, manage crises. Meanwhile, the event planner generally has more time to weigh options and strategically shape the event.

The Value of Event Planning and Management for In-Person Events

Event planning and management are pivotal for executing successful in-person events. Their symbiotic relationship fosters collaboration. While the event planner lays the foundation, the event manager executes the blueprint, seamlessly transforming the vision into reality. This collaboration brings coherence to the event execution process.

The interplay between event planning and event management ensures the smooth execution of the event. With deliberate planning and efficient management, any unexpected issues or changes become manageable, leading to a seamless event that meets the objectives and expectations of all stakeholders.

Unforgettable In-Person Events With Miller Tanner Associates

Event planning and management contribute uniquely to an event’s success, requiring close collaboration between the two roles. By embracing both aspects of event organization, one can orchestrate an event that leaves a lasting impression on attendees.

Miller Tanner Associates provides exceptional event planning and management services to ensure your in-person event is a resounding success. Our experienced professionals seamlessly merge strategic planning with efficient management, bringing your vision to life.

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What is a Symposium?

Symposiums are popular events that bring together experts in a particular field to discuss and share knowledge. There are different types of symposiums, and each has different benefits if you are interested in hosting one.

Types of Symposiums

We can categorize symposiums broadly into two types: academic and corporate symposiums.

Academic Symposiums

Academic symposiums primarily focus on research and education. Scholars, researchers, and students gather to discuss the latest developments, findings, and breakthroughs about a specific academic subject.

Academic symposiums tend to emphasize research and learning. Experts present their works in these settings, which often include groundbreaking research, discoveries, or advancements in their field. These presentations foster a deep level of expert insight into a topic and offer attendees the chance to learn something new or engage in relevant discussions with their peers. Academic symposiums can cover a broad range of topics, such as sciences, humanities, arts, and social sciences, to name a few.

Corporate Symposiums

Corporate symposiums, on the other hand, revolve around industry-specific knowledge sharing. They are commonly industry events designed to bring together professionals working within that sector.

At a corporate symposium, business professionals share industry-specific knowledge. This knowledge can range from the latest trends, technologies, and best practices to future predictions and challenges in the industry. Like academic symposiums, these events offer a platform for professionals to share their expertise, learn from others, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. They also present networking opportunities, which can lead to collaborations and partnerships.

Symposium Presentations

Understanding the concept of a symposium is incomplete without discussing what happens during the event. These are the core of any symposium, be it academic or corporate. Presentations are where the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and discourse between professionals occurs.

Key Elements of Symposium Presentations

A symposium presentation typically includes a speaker delivering a keynote speech or lecture based on their area of expertise. A panel discussion often follows, where several experts discuss a topic in depth. The structure of these presentations may vary depending on the type of symposium, but they share some common elements.

Every symposium presentation starts with an introduction of the speaker and the topic. Then, the main body of the presentation covers the speaker’s knowledge or research findings on the subject, often supported by visual aids such as slides, graphs, images, or videos. Lastly, symposium presentations usually conclude with a question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to interact with the speaker and further explore the topic.

Engaging the Audience in Symposium Presentations

Audience engagement is a vital aspect of any successful symposium presentation. This can be achieved by integrating interactive elements such as live polls or quizzes, encouraging audience participation in discussions, and providing platforms for networking and dialogue.

Speakers can engage their audience by making their presentations dynamic and immersive. Storytelling, humor, and the usage of compelling visuals can help to captivate the audience’s attention. Moreover, choosing a relevant and interesting topic is also crucial, as it will naturally encourage interaction and feedback from the audience.

Benefits of Hosting a Symposium

Hosting a symposium can bring many benefits to your organization or business.

Knowledge Exchange

Hosting a symposium creates a platform for knowledge exchange, allowing experts to share insights, research, and innovative ideas on a specific topic. This collaborative environment promotes learning and keeps participants updated on the latest developments in their field.

Enhanced Reputation

Symposiums allow your organization to exhibit its knowledge, expertise, and forward-thinking approach. This not only positions you as a thought leader in your industry but also enhances your brand visibility. By hosting a symposium, your organization gets the opportunity to highlight its contribution to the industry and influence future trends and developments.

Networking Opportunities and Long-Term Collaborations

Hosting a symposium provides an excellent networking opportunity. Attendees often include industry leaders, researchers, and professionals. This broad spectrum of attendees means that symposiums are fertile ground for making new contacts, exploring collaborations, and sharing industry insights. Not only do these interactions stimulate fresh ideas and solutions, but they also pave the way for potential partnerships.

Ready to host your symposium? Contact Miller Tanner Associates today to begin planning your industry-leading event. Let’s work together to create an enriching and engaging symposium experience for your attendees.

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Event Budgeting Guide

Planning an event involves a lot of moving parts, and one of the most pivotal aspects to consider is the budget. Effective event budgeting is necessary to ensure that your event is a success without breaking the bank. Discover the process of event budgeting, along with tips and best practices to help you stay on track. If you need help planning your event, don’t hesitate to reach out to Miller Tanner Associates for expert assistance.

Event Budgeting Guide

Understanding Event Budgeting

Event budgeting is a little more complex than just adding up the costs. It involves a series of financial assessments, estimates, and checks that ensure your event doesn’t just go well but also stays financially stable and sustainable. Take a closer look at the steps involved in creating an event budget and the factors that you need to consider.

Steps to Create an Event Budget

The event budgeting process can be broadly broken down into two primary steps.

1. Identifying Expenses

You must first identify all possible expenses. This includes every cost associated with your event, from location rent, equipment hire, and catering to speaker or performer fees, decorations, and transportation. Don’t forget to include minor costs like stationery and printing, as these can add up. The idea is to leave no stone unturned so you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected expenses.

2. Estimating Revenue

After calculating the expenses, the next step is estimating the revenue. This will primarily come from ticket sales, sponsorships, and any merchandise or food and drinks you plan to sell at the event. Be realistic when estimating your revenue to avoid any unexpected shortfalls.

Factors to Consider in Event Budgeting

There are numerous factors that you need to consider when creating a budget for your event. Here are two of the most significant ones:

1. Venue Costs

The venue is typically one of the largest expenses in any event budget. The cost of the venue relies on several factors, like location, size, amenities, and the date of the event. Account for additional costs such as parking, security, and cleaning.

2. Catering and Refreshments

The food and drink you offer at your event can also significantly impact your budget. Factors such as the type of event, the number of attendees, and the time of day will all affect your catering costs. If you’re planning a full-day event, for example, you may need to provide lunch and refreshments, which will increase your catering expenses.

3. Travel Expenses for Attendees

It is crucial to create a detailed budget for travel expenses for attendees. This budget should include costs such as transportation, accommodations, and any other related expenses. By estimating these costs accurately and setting a clear budget, event organizers can ensure that attendees have a smooth and enjoyable experience without overspending. It is important to research different options to find the most cost-effective solutions while still providing quality services to all participants.

Best Practices for Event Budgeting

Event budgeting goes beyond understanding costs and revenue. Implementing the following best practices can help you optimize your budget, manage your finances more effectively, and ultimately create a more successful event.

Allocating Funds for Marketing and Promotion

Don’t underestimate the power of marketing and promotion when budgeting for your event. Setting aside funds for advertising, whether it’s through social media, local press, or radio, is helpful to attract an audience and generate revenue. Keep in mind your target audience and the marketing channels that will most effectively reach them.

Contingency Planning for Unexpected Expenses

Unexpected expenses will inevitably arise while planning your event. This is why it’s wise to set aside a contingency fund, generally 5-10% of your budget. This safeguards your event from unforeseen costs and ensures that you won’t have to scramble for additional funds at the last minute.

Tools and Resources for Event Budgeting

There are plenty of tools and resources available that can aid in the efficient planning and execution of event budgeting.

Budgeting Software and Templates

There are numerous budgeting software and templates designed to streamline your event budgeting process. These tools help you track expenses, estimate revenue, and manage your funds effectively.

Professional Financial Services

Professional financial services can be beneficial for larger or more complicated events. These services provide expert financial planning and management to ensure the success of your event and the efficiency of your budget.

Plan Your Event With the Assistance of Miller Tanner Associates

Event budgeting is more than just crunching numbers; it revolves around strategic planning, risk management, and financial forecasting. Proper event budgeting may seem daunting, but with the right tools, resources, and practices, you can create a financially sound event that will make an impact. Remember, the goal of event budgeting is not just to cut costs but to make wise decisions that maximize your event’s success and return on investment.

To learn more about our event planning services, contact us. With our wealth of experience and expertise in managing successful events, we can ensure your event is budgeted, planned, and executed to perfection.

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What is a Key Opinion Leader (KOL)?

Key opinion leaders, or KOLs, impact event success, particularly in the life sciences industry. They are important to have at events and can enhance the overall experience for attendees. You should consider including KOLs in your event planning strategy because of their valuable knowledge, contributions, and trustworthy expertise.

What is a Key Opinion Leader (KOL)?

Role of KOLs in Events

Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) are influential figures in their respective industries who can contribute significantly to the success of life science events. Their involvement in these events can range from being a keynote speaker to taking part in panel discussions, networking, and relationship building.

Keynote Speaking and Thought Leadership

One of the primary roles of a KOL at any event is to deliver keynote speeches and thought leadership. In these speeches, KOLs share their expert insights, research findings, or industry trends, offering valuable knowledge to the audience. As respected figures, KOLs’ words carry weight, and audiences consider them as reliable and trusted sources of information. This can help to set the tone for the event and elevate the entire conference or seminar experience.

Panel Discussions and Expert Sessions

Besides keynote speaking, event organizers often include KOLs in panel discussions and expert sessions. Here, they can have in-depth discussions on specific subjects within the life sciences field, exchange ideas, and debate on critical issues. These sessions involving KOLs can lead to enriching, knowledge-filled discussions that often result in valuable insights and ideas.

Networking and Relationship Building

Beyond delivering speeches or contributing to discussions, KOLs play an essential role in networking and relationship-building during life sciences events. Their presence often attracts significant figures and stakeholders within the industry, leading to networking opportunities and potential collaborations. KOLs can indirectly facilitate business relationships and offer attendees an opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals.

Benefits of Having KOLs at Events

Having KOLs at your event introduces a wealth of benefits that can enhance your event’s overall success and impact.

Enhancing Credibility and Trust

In the life sciences industry, KOL involvement signifies the event’s legitimacy and relevance, thereby enhancing the credibility and trust associated with the event. Attendees, sponsors, and other stakeholders often perceive events that feature KOLs as more prestigious and trusted.

Leveraging KOL Influence for Event Success

KOLs have a significant influence on their followers and peers in the industry. Event organizers can leverage this influence to maximize their event’s success. Whether it’s through social media promotion or word-of-mouth advertising, KOLs can help generate buzz, increase attendee numbers, and contribute to the event’s overall success.

Identifying and Engaging KOLs for Events

Selecting the right KOLs is integral to ensuring they align with your event’s goals and audience needs. In the life sciences industry, ideal KOLs often have a strong industry background, academic qualifications, and achievements. People recognize them for their contributions in their respective fields. They should also have an influence within their networks and the ability to engage and captivate audiences. Event planners should also consider the KOLs’ communication skills, engagement levels on social media platforms, and willingness to contribute to the event.

Securing KOL participation in your event might require a tailored approach based on each KOL’s preferences. Potential strategies include inviting them well in advance, showing appreciation for their work and expertise, illustrating the benefits they would receive from attending your event, and offering them a platform where they can share their insights and connect with their peers.

Effective Event Planning with Effective KOLs

If you’re looking for expert event planning assistance, consider contacting Miller Tanner Associates. Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more. With our experience and deep understanding of the life sciences industry, we are well-equipped to help plan events that not only meet but exceed your expectations.

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Event Management vs Event Production

Event management and production are similar yet distinct jobs involved in hosting a successful event. Ensuring these two positions work in tandem is a big part of hosts’ behind-the-scenes duties. Learn more about each of these jobs, how to manage them effectively, and how it all works to make your events the best they can be.

Event Management vs. Event Production

Event Management

The backbone of any in-person event, event management holds the responsibility of planning, organizing, and executing the event from start to finish. An effective event manager has exceptional attention to detail, ensuring that nothing is left to chance and that the event runs as smoothly as possible. Event managers have an extensive list of responsibilities, which include identifying the target audience of an event, formulating the event concept, coordinating the technical aspects, and ensuring that legalities and health safety obligations are met.

Event management is marked by strategic planning and high-level organization. The event manager’s tasks include planning the event, managing marketing activities, arranging for speakers or entertainers, hiring vendors and caterers, and scheduling timelines. They also need to anticipate potential problems and find solutions ahead of time.

The significance of event management in personifying in-person events must be considered. From the venue selection to the successfully executed event, the event manager looks after every minute detail. This process is necessary for the flawless running of the event, ensuring that the event objectives are met and that the attendees leave with a positive impression.

Event Production

The magic behind turning a concept into reality is event production. This role takes care of the technicalities of the event, making sure that every visual, audio, and lighting aspect runs smoothly. The event producer collaborates with the event manager to bring the event vision to life.

An event producer will be in charge of stage design, speaker rehearsals, show flow, audiovisual production, lighting, and special effects. They coordinate with a team of technicians, designers, and artists to create a visually captivating event that resonates with the audience.

Event production plays a significant role in creating memorable in-person events. It goes beyond just technical implementation; it is about creating an environment that excites the audience and complements the theme of the event. An event without adequate event production might as well be a failure since proper production is what sticks in someone’s mind and makes the event memorable for years to come.

Differences Between Event Management and Event Production

While the end goal of both event management and event production is to create a successful event, their focus and responsibilities set them apart. Event management is more about the overall organization and coordination of the event, focused on planning and executing. On the other hand, event production is centered on bringing the event’s concept to life, focusing on the technical aspects and in-event experience. Both roles collaborate and coordinate to ensure seamless maneuvering of all event aspects, contributing to the event’s overall success.

Why Event Management and Event Production are Important

Both event management and production must work in harmony to create an outstanding attendee experience. The meticulous planning and organization of the event manager, coupled with the creative and technical expertise of the event producer, can lead to an unforgettable event. Together, they ensure that every element of the event, from the first impression to the final curtain call, leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Balance Event Management and Event Production for Great Results

While event management and event production are distinct, they are also interdependent and equally important for a successful event. Leverage both these skilled jobs for your in-person events for a seamless and memorable experience.

Contact us to learn more about how Miller Tanner Associates can assist you with your event management and production needs.

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Employee Incentive Program Examples

Disengagement ranks among the top reasons that employees leave their companies, exhibit a stall or decline in productivity, and become disenchanted and unmotivated in the workplace. Employers are suffering with a direct hit to their bottom line because of high turnover and low productivity. So what is the solution?

Employee incentive programs, sometimes called rewards programs, are designed to motivate employees through a reward structure. To be optimally effective, the right employee incentive program must be well-structured, work well with your current employees, and be impactful in the retention and recruitment of talent in the future.

Employee incentive programs have been proven to show an increase in both productivity and morale, making them more important than ever before. They are instrumental in increasing employee engagement and satisfaction and can positively impact productivity. There are many forms of incentive programs, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your staff and aligns with your company’s values.

Employee Incentive Program Examples

Types of Employee Incentive Programs

When choosing an employee incentive program, first look at your current staff. What motivates them? Is it money or time off? Personal recognition or experiences? Programs are usually either performance-based incentives, recognition programs, or programs that enhance or increase benefits.

Once you determine which type of incentive program is the best fit, decide if the reward is to be monetary or non-monetary.

  • Monetary Incentives include bonuses, raises, stock options, profit sharing, etc.
  • Non-monetary Incentives may not offer direct monetary compensation but are valuable to employees. This can include personal time off, flex hours, and awards for recognition.

Some common employee incentive programs include:

  • Social Recognition Program. Many employees (and their peers) find that public recognition is more valuable than a monetary reward. Knowing that a peer has received recognition for performance can also be motivational to other team members.
  • Profit Sharing and Stock Options. Employees who play a part in a company’s success are often motivated to do more when rewarded with stock options or profit sharing.
  • Professional Development Programs. Motivate and engage employees by proving the company’s commitment to investing in their professional development and career promotion.
  • Referral Programs. Employees are rewarded for referring qualified candidates for employment.
  • Team Building Programs. Offer incentives, promote bonding and collaboration, and provide a fun and rewarding diversion.
  • Health and Wellness. Programs offer incentives to employees which, in turn, offer employers a healthier, happier workforce.
  • Incentive Travel. Sometimes, these trips are purely for celebration and relaxation, while other times they offer an opportunity for winners to discuss strategy and best practices with their organization’s executives.

Case Study of Successful Employee Incentive Program: Achievers’ Club in St. Martin & Venice

Miller Tanner Associates implemented an extraordinary employee incentive program through its Achievers’ Clubs in St. Martin and Venice, Italy. This initiative aimed to reward top-performing employees with an unforgettable experience, fostering engagement and motivation. In St. Martin, employees enjoyed unique team-building activities, luxury accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences. This carefully curated trip not only reinforced team dynamics but also encouraged professional growth and a sense of accomplishment, translating directly into heightened morale and retention rates within the organization.

Similarly, the Venice Achievers’ Club offered a blend of luxury and culture, with participants exploring iconic landmarks, indulging in fine dining, and attending bespoke team activities. The program’s success was measured by improved employee performance and satisfaction, as well as increased company loyalty. Miller Tanner’s attention to detail in both destinations created lasting impressions, highlighting the value of recognition and reward. This strategic approach to employee incentives proved to be an effective tool in driving long-term engagement, aligning individual success with organizational goals.

Best Practices for Implementing Employee Incentive Programs

When implementing your employee incentive program, keep the following in mind:

  1. Define your goals. Align your company goals with your incentive program so that the overall objective is the same.
  2. Define and keep to a planned budget.
  3. Make your incentives personal.
  4. Work to promote your program to your current employees and to prospective employees as well.
  5. Measure the impact of your program. Start with a clear baseline and measure against that at given intervals.

The Impact of Effective Employee Incentive Programs on Organizational Success

With employee disengagement costing companies lost productivity, it is important to take steps now to promote an effective incentive program. Miller Tanner Associates is here to help. We’d love to talk to you about creating the best incentive program for your needs and show you ways to showcase your program. Contact us today to get started.

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What is a Workshop?

A workshop is a lengthier interactive meeting that combines a group of people with a common goal of solving a problem or working on a specific project. They are usually led by a trainer or facilitator who works with a planned series of activities, presentations, or facilitated hands-on interaction that will lead to the desired result.

Though led by a facilitator, workshops are designed for interaction between participants to yield the best results for the chosen problem or project. Longer than meetings, and more interactive than training sessions or seminars, workshops are designed to emphasize collaboration and active participation.

What is a Workshop

Definition and Purpose of Workshops

A workshop is a structured, interactive meeting that is focused on solving a problem, working on a project, or achieving a common goal through interaction, active participation, and collaboration. By building on the different strengths of workshop participants, workshops not only prompt creativity, they also foster connections between participants that, prior to the workshop, may not have existed.

Workshops not only promote participation, but they can also build a stronger, more creative team, by offering an effective way to collaborate. Workshop participants are encouraged to brainstorm, identify problems or solutions from their point of view, and collaborate on decision-making and solutions. This can be especially useful if the project is far-reaching or complex since several points of view can be offered. Encouraging participants to interact, allows them to see beyond their scope and solutions, learn from each other, and use that combined input to reach their goal.

Types of Workshops

Though all workshops consist of a facilitator, participants, and a goal, the type of workshop can have endless possibilities. A few ideas are:

  • Decision-Making Workshops. This type of workshop is designed to solve a problem by making a team decision. Since many participants may be specialists in one particular aspect, they may be immune to looking at the implications of their decision-making to others. A decision-making workshop allows participants to collaborate and find the optimal decision to reach their goals.
  • Ideation Workshops. This type of workshop allows a free-flowing exchange of ideas. Often, brainstorming allows participants to release their creativity and then guides them into selecting the best ideas to meet their collective goal. This type of workshop not only promotes participation but also fosters creativity and innovation.
  • Retrospective Workshops. These workshops are perhaps the icing on the workshop cake. Complex problems that require lengthy, intense workshop participation may culminate in a final workshop meeting that allows participants to look back on what has been accomplished and reflect on their growth and creativity.

Benefits of Participating in Workshops

Creating and implementing workshops benefits employers and participants. When executed properly, workshops can make problem-solving a positive experience, with benefits for all involved.

The benefits of participating in workshops are:

  • Participants may not only learn new skills, but they may also improve existing skills.
  • Workshops encourage cross-functional, interdepartmental collaboration.
  • Workshops promote networking, and relationships may continue after the workshop.
  • Participants get a broader understanding and increased expertise on the topic.
  • Employees become more engaged and productive.
  • Participants are able to relate better and acquire ownership of the goal.
  • Workshops spark growth, creativity, and productivity.

Is a Workshop Right for You?

Workshops don’t just happen. They require preparation that includes a facilitator, planning, and a desired outcome. A facilitator can keep the group on topic while offering guidance toward the goal. Planning for the type of workshop you want to present is necessary in order for the participants to work together and feel included and respected. Knowing the desired outcome is necessary to keep the workshop moving in the right direction.

At Miller Tanner Associates, we know that workshops take work. We know that workshops are often built around complex problems or projects, and that can be overwhelming. We are experts in creating, designing, and facilitating workshops for small businesses as well as large, multi-location corporations. Contact us today so we can talk about how Miller Tanner Associates can help you.

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