A meeting and convention planner supervises and coordinates the strategic, operational, and logistical activities necessary for the production of
events. The planner can be employed or hired ad hoc by
corporations,
associations,
governments, and other organizations.[1][2]
Standardization issues
Although the Occupational Information Network (O*NET), sponsored by the
United States Department of Labor and
Employment and Training Administration, identified this occupation as "meeting and convention planner," other titles are more commonly used. These titles include event planner, meeting planner, and meeting manager. In addition, several other titles specific to the categories of events produced are used, such as corporate planner and party planner.
The banquet event order (BEO), a standard form used in the
hospitality industry to document the requirements of an event as pertinent to the venue,[3] has presented numerous problems to meeting and convention planners due to the increasing complexity and scope of modern events. In response,
Convention Industry Council developed the event specifications guide (ESG) that is currently replacing the BEO.[4]
Additionally, the Convention Industry Council is spearheading
The Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX). By bringing the planners and suppliers together to create industry-wide accepted practices and a common terminology, the profession continues to enhance the professionalism of the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry.
Certification and Designations
Planners can, but need not, be certified or hold designations.