Your thoughts are spot on when it comes to quality events. I’ve been turned off by many conferences and networking events because of the WIFM effect of people trying to recoup any costs (some significant) in attending events.

I attended the 140conf LA and it was a fantastic experience shared by hundreds of people over the 2 days it took place.

Thanks for the great post and the link back!

Thanks for your comments and your thoughtful article. I feel that there is an inherent conflict of interest when charging for speaking rights and audience rights simultaneously. Therefore when push comes to shove the best interests of the promoter not the audience will be served. This practice will ultimately undermine the quality of the event and kill it.

I believe that is what leads to the demise of so many promising events. It’s not the changes in the industry, or the cycles of the economy. It’s the gradual decline of the quality of the show caused by pressure from sponsors.

Chris

But as a conference marketer, I believe there is some balance to be had in the sponsor/speaker debate.

The sponsors/vendors in any market are essential, they often drive the innovation in any industry, particularly in the internet age. Also without sponsors, many events would not exist.

That said, no one likes attending a conference and being pitched, so the it’s up to organizers and sponsors to ensure they are adding value.

I also added some more interesting information in my blog post response.
http://nomadmarketer.wordpress.com/2010/02/10/the-balance-are-events-an-effective-b2b-marketing-channel/

Thanks Chris, as I said thought provoking as always! keep it up!