As had been widely expected, Apple released a tablet device today. Called the iPad, it falls between a laptop and smartphone and is capable of doing many of the same things an iPhone can but on a larger, 9.7-inch LCD screen.
Now, I know that many meeting and event planners are PC people. But I can’t help but think how the iPad could be “game changing” or at least “program changing” for busy event and meeting planners.
Think about site inspections, for example. Whether virtual or in-person they could take on a whole other dimention with the iPad.
The device could be used to:
* Conduct real-time research — from finding contact names and phone numbers for key venue personnel (sales manager, general manager, director of catering, director of convention services, convention services manager, etc) using the built-in browser and a reputable online database (such as our companion directory — wttc.com) — to checking routes and distances from the airport using the Maps application.
* Access documents such as floor plans so that seating capacities and breakout configurations are right in front of you.
* Access photos of videos of the meeting room you’re standing in, to show and review various set-ups.
* Access industry-specific apps, such as room capacity calculators, to instantly determine whether or not changes can be made to the set-up.
* Record meeting notes with the Voice Memos app and snapping photos with the built-in camera for reference later back at the office.
* Replace hard copies of contracts with digital copies that can be easily accessed for on-the-spot agreed changes.
* Make changes to proposals on-the-spot based on information gleaned during the site inspection.
The iPad can be carried in a handbag (ladies!) and will retail at an affordable $499 US.
