Do you think AI doesn’t belong in the world of MICE? Wrong. Read on, and you might be surprised to discover that you encounter it everywhere, and perhaps you didn’t even know it.
In November 2022, the habits of all of us who use the internet (not only) for work have started to change rapidly. AI, or artificial intelligence, entered the game with great vigor, influencing our daily internet habits. AI can help with research when writing an article, it can even write it for us. It will write out important points from a long report, edit spreadsheets on our behalf, and provide inspiration when needed. Furthermore, AI can generate images precisely as instructed. The possibilities are limitless.
The event industry is known for its ability to adapt quickly. Therefore, there is no reason to doubt that it will soon embrace the technological advancements brought about by the widespread use of AI.
How will we use AI in MICE?
Many of the processes and functions of computer programs or applications that run on AI have been around for a long time. Just think of the algorithms on social media, facial recognition for phone unlocking or passport control, ad targeting, and content recommendation on streaming services, among others.
The hotel F&B segment, for example, also uses automated systems to keep track of inventory and orders. Hotels employ automated email campaigns and automated check-in processes. Some progressive establishments have even replaced live receptionists with robots – and you can notice this, especially during the arrival of a large company or conference.
Which options to focus on? Where is it worth gradually implementing AI to save your own resources?
AI chatbots can be a valuable tool to free up your staff’s time during conferences, allowing them to focus on more critical tasks. Let the bots handle operational matters like providing the agenda and guiding attendees through the venue.
Possible limits: While you may have a highly skilled chatbot, conference attendees might prefer seeking assistance from a live human present rather than searching for answers on their mobile phones or a dashboard.
Personalization. By customizing programs based on visitors’ interests, preferences, and past attendance history, you can alleviate decision paralysis when it comes to selecting lectures. Prior to the event, individual communication with the visitor can be facilitated through a virtual assistant, tailoring marketing campaigns to potential clients or congress attendees.
Looking ahead, the Brno Convention Bureau event app could be personalized to showcase attendees’ preferred lectures or exhibitions. It could also provide discounts for their preferred cultural events or restaurants. Such technology would facilitate interactions with exhibitors and enable personalized offers or discounts.
Possible limits: Participants may be reluctant to provide sensitive personal data in advance. Many individuals are more inclined to withhold such information.
Automation. Utilizing automated systems can effectively handle participant registration, conference fee payment management, informational email distribution, participant list creation, and program and schedule planning. Automated systems can also track participation and analyze data, including monitoring event mentions and social media interactions, providing valuable insights to enhance services.
Possible limits: Ethical considerations and privacy concerns arise once again. The quality of input data also holds significance as it directly impacts the accuracy and reliability of the final outputs generated by automated systems.
Matchmaking. By leveraging AI, relevant connections can be established, and meaningful meetings can be scheduled for exhibitors and buyers, fostering progress for both parties involved. This approach reduces the risk of wasted time while increasing the likelihood of establishing valuable business connections and driving actual business outcomes.
These are just a few examples of areas where our habits and established processes will gradually evolve. However, should we be concerned about AI taking over our jobs? Absolutely not. The human factor, characterized by personal approaches and creativity, remains the cornerstone of our industry and currently cannot be replaced. Certain aspects of MICE, such as relationship building and networking, still require a personal presence.
In conclusion, it is evident that the integration of AI in MICE serves as a valuable tool to facilitate and optimize various processes. Nevertheless, the human factor remains essential in crafting unique and memorable experiences.
Note: This article was written by a live human with the assistance of ChatGPT.