Introduction to Event Planning and Design

This chapter explores the concepts of event planning and design development, focusing on the importance of event planning for organisations wishing to promote their business. Promotional events are now an essential component of any organisation’s marketing plan. Carefully planned events provide organisations with a closer, more personal means of interacting with current or potential customers or supporters. The success or failure of a business can, to a large extent, be determined by the events it sponsors. Event planning can be defined as the coordination of all aspects of an event, including budgeting and programme development. Designing and producing an event is analogous to a live stage production process. Once the event begins, there is no turning back. There is no guarantee of a successful outcome; however, event organisers can plan, prepare, and be ready for the unexpected.