The Liaison Group of the Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) and the International Association of Assembly Managers (IAAM) has released a white paper called, “Best Practices for Convention Center Sales and Convention Center Operations.”

“The report is a tool for destination marketing organizations (DMOs) and convention facilities to better serve the destination customer, providing a seamless positive experience from the beginning of the sales cycle through move out,” says Steve Moore, co-chair and president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix CVB.

The guidelines provided by the Liaison Group are available to the public and can be used by any destination, with any business model. They are intended to facilitate partnership, provide joint advocacy and identify common objectives for DMOs and convention facilities.

Peggy Daidakis, co-chair and executive director with the Baltimore Convention Center, says, “This collaborative effort is the first by two industry partner associations on a topic of interest to members of both associations and destination customers throughout North America.”

Within the report, nine critical areas were identified to promote best practices in sales and operations in order to provide the customer with a seamless experience: 1. convention sales; 2. convention center operations; 3. joint accountability; 4. joint advocacy; 5. funding and finance; 6. technology; 7. training and human resource deployment; 8. conflict resolution; 9. certification and accreditation.

Over time, the group anticipates evolving discussions and potential amendments to the document as the industry changes.