Imagine that innovation is a fast moving river. A lot of the time, it can feel like we are just gripping the edges of our rafts, trying not to capsize and get lost. But every so often, we’re able to catch a calm eddy and take a breather. From here, we can take stock of our journey: where we've come from, where we are now, and where we are headed. And most importantly for any company, what is the best way to get there?
As an event production manager, this moment came for me at LDI in 2013. I was wandering somewhat aimlessly up and down the aisles. I marveled at the new lighting gear, sound, video, and special effects. As I was ticking through all of the ways I might be able to use these new toys on my future events, I hit my eddy. And suddenly I was staring at the full scope of the industry with new eyes.
Nearly every production department leaps forward year after year. Processes are improved, gear is more flexible. The design elements available to event planners continue to evolve in exciting ways.
But I say nearly because I noticed one department glaringly absent from the innovation party. Management.