FutureWatch 2010 Released

Yesterday, MPI released FutureWatch, its annual member survey of industry trends and predictions, and there aren't very many surprises.

The general consensus is that "the hand-wringing is done, and now the meetings industry is digging in and adapting" to the times. Well, I've certainly seen this in our own region, as planners hunker down to the new reality.

A few highlights from the report:

• Planners' top three concerns in 2010 are budget cuts, doing more with less and not having enough staff. The worsening economy, which topped the list last year, is nowhere to be seen, an indicator that we're moving into a (perhaps slightly) rosier time.

• A 2.8 percent increase in meetings is predicted for this year, although budgets will be tight. Planners will be focusing on working more efficiently, reassuring ROI and eliminating frills.

• Resort will make a slight comeback, as the dreaded "perception problem" begins to fade from the social conscience.

• Planners are looking for better ways to deliver technology. While Internet access is ranked as a number three priority, planners were less kind to meeting venues and hotels, docking points for availability and affordability.

It's nice to see some glimmers of light peeking through the clouds. It may take longer than we like, but things are getting better.