This revised guide instructs and inspires by learning from the masters in an emerging field. Discover how to achieve success through professional relationships and how to avoid the pitfalls that sometimes lead to disaster.
Special Events Best Practices in Modern Event Management The Special Events drum beats on and Dr. Goldblatt’s book keeps pace with—and even serves to define—this ever changing industry. Close scrutiny of the trends in Special Events Management over the past six years signaled Goldblatt that the time was ripe to launch this Second Edition of his book. This decision was dictated by vast economic and technological developments as well as a growing competitiveness in the industry. He is driven forward by the awareness that those taking up the Special Events Management gauntlet, now more than ever, need extensive training and knowledge in this multi-disciplinary field in order to sustain success. This unique text offers a comprehensive study of the special events field, which is burgeoning over into many management sub-fields. Widely varied types of events are spawning a demand for new and innovative thinking and definitive management styles, and Goldblatt paints a clear perspective on how the industry has developed and keeps an ear to the ground as to the future picture. Real-life case studies ("war stories"), carefully interwoven into the text to strengthen and expand concepts, are followed by a concise author’s comment called "lesson learned." The progression of each chapter is guided by highlighted boxes, clearly illustrated figures, and color photographs (lending clarity and inspiration in a field where presentation is key). A summary section at the end of each chapter reemphasizes critical points and provides the reader with an invaluable "big picture" perspective. This enlightening text is organized into four broad sections, which address: 1) The stages intrinsic in every successful event, and the linkage between competencies that form each event’s core. At the heart of these issues is the assurance of a satisfied guest in each unique environment, existing hand-in-hand with the proper management of financial matters. Synchronicity of these factors is bolstered by team building and leadership skills. 2) Scheduling and organizational elements of events: how best to select and implement effective catering, technology, music, entertainment, etc. 3) Marketing tools, from the "invitation," to promotion, to sponsorship opportunities and implications. 4) Legal aspects and risk management, as methods of cost control and ensuring a safe celebratory environment. A professional code of ethics is also discussed in this section. Throughout the text you will find interesting and helpful learning devices to enhance the speed and ease of comprehension, such as:
- Numbered priority lists
- Personal "war stories" and lessons learned from them
- Diagrammatic representations of key concepts
- Planning and preparation checklists
- Chapter previews and summaries
- Model situations with common challenges and solutions in chart format
- Samples and examples of function agreements, licenses, reports, and forms
From start to finish Goldblatt has created a text that celebrates this newly respected profession. As a text or reference, these pages reflect Goldblatt’s assertion that, "The paradigm has shifted from an unformed group of professionals known as ‘special events’ into an emerging discipline encompassing many professions known as Event Management."
