THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL EVENT PLANNING: A CASE STUDY ON IDENTIFYING THE MOST APPROPRIATE MODEL OF EVENT PLANNING.

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to use published literature and primary research to create an adapted version of Salem et al’s. event planning model. This will aid in the development of a ‘best fit model’ suitable for events students and event managers alike. It was chosen to use participants from Cardiff Metropolitan University, due to the convenience it was ideal to focus the study within this demographic. Within this dissertation literature has been reviewed in order to strengthen the authors conclusions. Furthermore, research has been conducted in the form of two semi-structured interviews and a focus group. It was important that data was collected in order to produce an adaptation of Salem et al’s. event planning model. The model can be used as a framework to create successful events. The research aided the author when making evaluations concerning the final adapted model. The key findings of this research highlighted an array of aspects that need to be incorporated into the final model. It has been identified that an event would benefit from two decisions the first one being made in the Decision Stage and the second in the Detailed Planning Stage. This will strengthen the final decision and allow for the incorporation of more elements of the event. A Finance Stage will also be included, as it has been found that finance, as a whole is a crucial element that had been severely overlooked. Factors directly linked to achieving event success such as: ambiance and atmosphere have been added. This will enhance the event. Within the Implementation Stage, that has found to be lacking within Salem et al’s. model, role delegation and set up have been added. This will ensure smooth running of the event and alleviate pressures from the event manager (if role delegation is conducted correctly). Lastly the Evaluation Stage has had a complete makeover – it has been divided into a three-stage set up. This allows for a more in-depth evaluation, which is a vital part of determining whether an event has been successful. The final conclusion proves the hypothetical effectiveness of Smith’s Event Planning Model, 2017.