The Value of Conventions and Events: Perspectives and Experiences of Industry Leaders at International Convention and Expo Summit 2009

Abstract

Through a case study of the International Convention and Expo Summit held in Hong Kong during 2009, this article contributes knowledge of the links between conventions and events, training, and experiential learning. Eighteen interviews with meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions sector leaders, all stakeholders in the student-organized and student-managed International Convention and Expo Summit 2009, were conducted to determine the need for formal convention and event training and to gather perceptions of experiential learning. Three main sub-dimensions were discovered using dendrogram cluster analysis: strengths for further development, the underdevelopment of training, and the important role of specialized training. Recommendations are given here in terms of the qualifications, formal education, and mentorship that will be necessary to leverage Hong Kong's existing strengths in further developing the human resources in its meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions sector.

KEYWORDS:

• meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions
• training needs
• Hong Kong
• conventions and events
• careers
• experiential learning

Educator's Viewpoints offer perspectives on education relevant to convention and event tourism.

The work described in this article was fully supported and funded by a grant from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Project Account: G-U655).