Marriott’s recent commission reduction could be a game changer. Here’s a five-step plan to keep from being left behind.

We are two weeks into Marriott's announcement of commission reduction for third party planning companies from 10 percent to 7 percent. Many were caught off guard by the reduction; others were not surprised, assuming this would be coming shortly...

My experience in working with clients and collaborating with colleagues on various strategic meetings management deliverables has taught me to always keep top of mind what is really best for your business. Not what is easiest to develop, or what...

Strategic meetings management expert Shimon Avish is now the group’s principal and head of its meetings management practice.

Is it time to explore new funding models for meetings management programs?

Frequently, I am asked "Why me? Why should I drive the strategic meetings management program?” Well, this column is dedicated to answering that question, why you should be the one behind the SMMP at your organization. Over the years, I...

One of the largest independent meeting planning companies in the country, BCD Meetings & Events, is poised to get even bigger. The company has signed an agreement to acquire Grass Roots Meetings & Events, a well-established player with 220...

A new study from the Global Business Travel Association Foundation finds a 62 percent increase in consolidation in just the past two years.

Back in 2003, the Global Business Travel Association Meetings Committee developed the first strategic meetings management "wheel," identifying for the first time the necessary components for a robust SMM program.  There have been a few iterations...

Measure your strategic meetings management program on multiple levels to get a full picture of its costs and benefits to the organization.