When organising any kind of event, it is sometimes assumed certain parties require partial details of the event and not all stakeholders are given a full overview of what is trying to be achieved. It is an easy trap to fall into as right from the start there is so much for organisers to remember and put in place, and so conversations can sometimes be cut short, or brief, or be very specific to what the organiser wants from the specific person that they are in conversation with.
These limited conversations can deprive the organiser from getting full value from their partners. It is important for organisers to use their suppliers as a source of industry knowledge. You may only require their lighting expertise, but the lighting guys will have other valuable information and ideas which are worth drilling down on.
Networking with your suppliers may get you a better deal, unearth a problem with a specific part of your project from the start, and/or help to engage the best person for the required outcome/effect. Being open about your project from the outset can save time and money and add to the overall impact your event will have.
We find, from an insurance point of view, people seem reticent to provide full information about their event. It is sometimes difficult for us to obtain the risk assessment, or full details around what actually is happening at the event. Generally, in order to source the correct coverage at a competitive price, we will require full information. Something, which may appear a bit unusual or risky, can actually look better to an insurer if provided with the correct risk information. Insurers take comfort from organisers who have a robust event management plan, who are dealing with reputable suppliers, or have specific processes in place to reduce the likelihood of problems occurring. Of course, the outcome of providing such information is reflected in the premium and terms provided.
In summary, you will get more out of your partners, the more that you share your goals, expectations and vision for your event.
Event Associations and Industry Associations are also great ways to position yourself in the correct environment to gain insight in to the trends, obstacles and understanding of things effecting your area of expertise. Again, the more you give and immerse yourself the more you will gain.
Author
Emma Hood
Underwriter & Technical Manager
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