The US economy is improving and the dollar is getting stronger, so companies are once again willing to spend more on unique and powerful experiences. Not only will we see bigger budgets but also larger group sizes, especially on the domestic front. Travel has been more accessible and convenient which allows the top DMCs to create more experiential events at exotic destinations. Globalization was one of the keywords we kept hearing during our research for this article. In addition, we talked to numerous top Destination Management Companies, looked at available data for the current year and researched other sources to bring you the Top DMC Trends for 2016.

 Shorter Lead Times

One complaint the Transportation Specialists at Brilliant hear almost on a daily basis from DMCs we work with, is that lead times are getting shorter and shorter. But not only that, attendees, many of them Millennials, expect more than just a traditional event.

"Clients are asking for customized solutions but do not provide much lead time allowing for high-quality customized proposals," says Kuoni Destination Management. With shorter lead times and pressure on margins, it is essential that DMCs operate extremely efficient. 

Don't Create an Event- Create an Experience!

Audiences are tired of the same old, and frankly boring events they have been served up. People want to have an experience, "experiential" is the new keyword. They want to be entertained but also have a memorable hands-on experience. A lot of top DMCs don't only provide basic services, they now shift to being creative partners. Many of the DMCs predict that 2016 will set new records. Clients demand new and creative ideas plus activities at their events. To keep your clients happy, you have to keep the attendees excited and engaged. Adding social media, interactivity, and apps is not a choice anymore, it is a must! (More on apps below)

Incentives

In the years to come, companies are expected to invest even more in their people. As a result of that trend, celebration and recognition events as well as incentive trips will be up. While it is good that clients, in general, are better educated when in comes to their options (thanks to a growing use of online resources) they are also continually looking for greater value in their investment. Make sure your company stands out from the rest of the field. Go above and beyond to make sure your client feels that you are the perfect fit for their event.

Mobile 

Mobile apps are no longer a luxury, but a necessity, especially for large events. Having recently attended HubSpot’s marketing conference Inbound 2015 with my team, I can attest to the importance of a great app. Not only was it extremely helpful to review speakers/sessions and organize my daily schedule, but it also helped me find my way around the convention center and sent me real-time conference updates directly to my phone. For you, the event organizer, the app can give powerful insight into what your guests liked/disliked. It will also enable you to engage with them before, during and after the event.

Collaboration & Partnership

Having strategic partnerships in place is more important than ever. With events getting bigger and being held at more remote locations, it is crucial to have partners not only locally but worldwide. At Brilliant Transportation Agency, we have a global network of top transportation providers. So no matter where our clients need our service, we can provide and execute a top notch experience, leaving you with time and energy to focus on other important aspects of your event.

I hope you enjoyed this blog post. Brilliant wishes you and your Destination Management Company a very successful 2016. Please subscribe below and share this blog with your network. 

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