Network

April 2006

Birmingham

reason / objective

Network wanted to differentiate themselves within their market place by holding the first of what was to become an annual conference. This was however no ordinary conference – it was to be creative, interactive, unconventional and most of all motivational for those in attendance. As a secondary aim, those who didn’t attend should feel as though they had missed something special!

concept / solution

To initiate a ‘buzz’ among Network staff and their invitees, a dedicated website was designed and launched via personalised online marketing inviting them to register their attendance. The design of the website not only reflected Networks’ branding but made the conference aspirational and something exciting.

With Networks clients based all around the UK, the challenge as always was to try to find a venue that suited everybody. Following close analysis of Networks’ client database it was decided that Birmingham would be the most convenient with the highest percentage of invitees being located in the Midlands. To try to appease those based in further climbs, train & flight schedules, a map, directions and local hotels were placed on the website, all of which could be downloaded. A number of rooms at the best of the local hotels were placed on hold offering a preferential rate.

The main plenary began in orthodox fashion until the room suddenly opened to reveal a larger area with 6 individually themed break-out rooms. The personalised delegate packs initiated a split of the attendees and directed them into equally numbered mixed groups set to visit each break-out room. Each session had different key initiatives that Network was set to launch.

The first break-out room included a cinema with a huge screen; velvet curtains, comfy seats, popcorn and dolby surround sound. The second was a classroom complete with presenters in Prefect and Head Master costume, a plasma screen hidden within a blackboard, pencil cases, catapults, a dunce hat (naturally!) and the very same desks as used in Harry Potter. The third was a cyber café, with high tables and poseur stools, networked computers with plasma screens and internet connection. The fourth area was designed as a second hand car dealership, with the presenters in ‘Del Boy’ and ‘Rodders’ style costumes.
The fifth area was the scene of a dramatic car accident and finally an amphitheatre style set enabling a motivational talk.

Each break-out room utilised different mediums of technology, stage sets and presentation methods/styles to highlight differing key messages.
The sessions were short and punchy each lasting 30 minutes, ensuring that the attention of all in attendance was kept to an optimum. At the end of each session the delegates were required to complete a quiz.

After a 3 course sit down lunch the delegates reconvened to the main plenary that included an end of year awards ceremony and a short inspirational film about Network which was scripted, story boarded and edited by Smyle Films. The conclusion was the presentation to the winner of the fiercely contested and much sought after ‘Delegate of the Day’ award, for the guest who had learned most from their day in the 6 different session quizzes. A witty ending to a conference with a difference!