As live events return amid the COVID-19 pandemic in the coming months, they will require a variety of modifications from planners, venues and audiovisual (A/V) providers. Hybrid meetings — blending both in-person and virtual components — will be the new norm for quite some time. Resources will be stretched as planners navigate the new event landscape and respond to ever-changing protocols.

For planners, maximizing budget is always important, but amid the pandemic, it is critical. Budgets will continue to be impacted for months. Events will need to be well planned and seamlessly executed because the attendee experience will matter more than ever.

“One of the best ways planners can extend their budget is to involve their A/V provider early in the planning phase,” says Larry Blocker, vice president and general manager of Media Stage, which is a member of the Rental and Staging Network (EPN). “That simple, yet important step allows the A/V team to make equipment recommendations that maximize event spend. It also ensures plenty of time to collaborate with the venue to identify efficient and cost-effective audiovisual solutions that will work within a space.”

Read more at Association Conventions & Facilities.