Event Tech Live (ETL) and the Event Technology Awards (ETA) have partnered with hotel booking agency trade association the HBAA to research the disparity in Wi-Fi cost and quality at event venues.
Starting with this survey, the initiative seeks opinion from HBAA members and the ETL/ETA network to compile a definitive document about venues’ Wi-Fi policy; what buyers do to spec Wi-Fi for their events, what help they need to that end, and whether there should be a suggested industry pricing standard.
Adam Parry, Co-founder of ETL and ETA, says: “It’s a free market but venues looking for repeat event business should be absolutely clear about what they’re offering in terms of Wi-Fi provision. This research will produce a thorough analysis about what the industry needs and expects for its event dollar.”
Caleb Parker, HBAA Tech & Innovation Chair comments: “Wi-Fi is like oxygen today. People attending events expect it to be there and work as if they’re sitting at home or in their office. But not all venues have the same offering or infrastructure, and frankly, it can be confusing for buyers planning events. The HBAA and our partners are looking into this area to learn how we, as an industry, can create more transparency and clarity so organisers can better deliver the experiences their participants expect.”
The survey process starts now through the end of August. Survey results will be discussed at an HBAA event in September in advance of a roundtable discussion on the topic at Event Tech Live in November.
The HBAA, the trade association for the hotel booking agency, apartment and venue community, represents more than 80 agency and 225 venue members who work collaboratively in the accommodation, meetings and events sector.
Event Tech Live returns to the Old Truman Brewery, East London on Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th of November with sister event The Event Technology Awards bridging the two on the evening of the 7th.
Author: Paul Allott
Paul Allott is a director and co-founder of Event Industry News, Event Tech Live and the Event Technology Awards.
